On Wednesday we held our second Faith in the Future Virtual Symposium with keynote speaker Dr Lyn Sharratt providing a thought-provoking presentation on the work of teachers and leaders in lifting learning standards for all students.

This was followed by an engaging panel discussion of student and school leaders moderated by Geraldine Doogue AO (see story below).

It was terrific to hear from our school leaders and students on how they are applying this work in their classrooms and schools. 

Lyn spoke about the importance of system alignment, and I would add sector alignment, so we are all responsible and accountable at every level of Catholic education for supporting each student to reach and exceed their potential. 

Today we celebrate World Teachers’ Day and recognise the contribution and work of our 65,000 teachers and leaders in Catholic schools throughout Australia.

The theme, “Teachers at the heart of education recovery”, recognises the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges it has brought for students and families.

Our teachers and staff, too, have had greater demands from the disruption to schooling and working remotely in many instances.

Through all of this, the focus of our 1,755 schools has been to stay connected with students and families, and to support their communities through the expression of our faith, through pastoral care and practical support.

Families, now more than ever, clearly value the benefits of quality teaching. 

At the national level, we have been working with states, territories and dioceses, and representing the interests of Catholic schools to government to support our schools in the best way we can.

This year, as we celebrate our bicentenary of Catholic education in Australia, we have recognised the enormous contribution of clergy, religious and lay women and men in the establishment and growth of Catholic schools over two centuries.

It seems the resilience and determination of these early educators has been passed on, as we have seen reflected in the extraordinary response by our staff over the past two years.  

To our teachers and leaders, I offer my sincere thanks for all your work, your commitment to our shared mission, and your passion and dedication for teaching and learning.

Happy World Teachers’ Day. 

Jacinta Collins
National Catholic education executive director