2 minute read
Past Chair Alison Quinn
In September, I stepped down as Chair of the School Council at St Margaret’s. I first joined the School Council in 2011 and have been Chair for the past six years. My association with the School Council has extended to a period which is longer than my actual attendance as a student at the school. St Margaret’s has been a part of my life in some shape or form since my very first day in 1978, and some of my dearest friends remain those whom I met while a student at the school. My daughter is a current student and I often reflect on the knowledge that she too is establishing similar lifelong friendships. The past nine years’ involvement with School Council have included some of the most fulfilling, rewarding, and, at times, difficult professional challenges one can face in any role, let alone a non-executive voluntary position. But I would not change them for a moment. Being involved in the governance of a school, any school, is critical. Education is the pathway to independence, and in today’s environment, education can be a bridge to building and strengthening individual relationships and personal resilience – touchstones critical for the mental wellbeing of our youth. Schools should be a place of solace, a source of inspiration, and a safe environment, where young people can be free to develop their own personal being, engage their minds and strengthen their resilience and character. I leave the Council in the year the school celebrates 125 years of educating young women. Enrolment levels are at their highest ever level; there is a tangible focus on developing every student’s academic potential; and for every teacher and support team member a priority is the stability and mental wellbeing of students. Over one third of the school campus has been recently redeveloped, and the school has fiscal stability, progressively growing its cash reserves so as to invest in projects which enhance the learning environment for students. The reality I have learned about schools is that success is never reached. Milestones are passed and new milestones appear, enticing you to strive further. A school is an evolving environment, and participants such as me are merely stewards for a period. Governance and leadership of a school are far bigger than any individual. I wish to formally acknowledge the support and guidance of my fellow Council Directors, as well as the leadership team of the school. Principal Ros Curtis has walked beside me these past nine years, and it is a journey that we have shared together, supporting, advising, and enabling each other along the way. I know the pathway of the school is in capable hands and am delighted to pass the baton of Chair to Mrs Debbie Smith so the current journey can continue. Fundamentally, I now know that a great education starts and finishes with great educators, great teachers, and these are the individuals who should be recognised. Educators are the people in whom we should invest, reward, and whose success we should acknowledge. To every teacher in every school I say thank you for the important role that you have. To those teachers at St Margaret’s, you have my ongoing appreciation and regard. Our future owes a debt to you all.
