Member Update 1 August 2024 | Term 3, Week 3
Acknowledgement of Country
The VACPSP acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the many lands that encompass our Catholic primary schools across Victoria – Dioceses of Ballarat, Sale, Sandhurst and the Archdiocese of Melbourne. The VACPSP recognises the Traditional Custodians' culture and the continuing spiritual connection to land, sea and waters.
The VACPSP pays our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who live, work, teach and learn within Catholic education in Victoria.
We commit to working together to create culturally safe schools for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to learn and thrive. We commit to working together for reconciliation, justice and treaty.
From the President
This week we celebrate Primary Principals Day across Australia. An opportunity to reflect upon the important role principals play in their school and in their community. In the dynamic and often challenging landscape of education, the role of a principal is a cornerstone of success and progress. Celebrating principalship is not merely about acknowledging an individual's leadership but recognising the multifaceted impact educational leaders have on students, teachers, families, and the broader school community. Principals are the pillars of our school and of our communities.
Principals wear many hats: they are administrators, teachers, leaders, mentors, and often even friends. They ensure that schools run smoothly, from the logistics of daily operations to the strategic planning necessary for long-term success. Their responsibilities range from managing budgets and resources to fostering a positive school culture and driving educational innovation. It is their vision and dedication that often set the tone for a school's environment and achievements.
One of the most crucial aspects of principalship is the ability to inspire and lead teachers. Effective principals create a supportive atmosphere where educators can thrive, encouraging professional development and fostering a culture of collaboration. By doing so, they help teachers reach their full potential, which in turn positively impacts student learning and achievement.
Moreover, principals play a pivotal role in student success. They are often the unseen architects behind the nurturing and safe environments where students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. By implementing inclusive policies and practices, they ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Celebrating principalship also means recognising the challenges and complexities of the role. Principals often face high stress and pressure, balancing the needs and expectations of students, parents, teachers, and the wider community. Their ability to navigate these demands with resilience and grace is a testament to their commitment and professionalism.
In essence, honouring the work of principals is about celebrating the heart of our schools. It is about acknowledging the leadership, dedication, and passion that drive educational success.
So this week, as we acknowledge and celebrate principalship, on behalf of the VACPSP, I express gratitude for the unwavering support and guidance you provide, ensuring that every school remain a vibrant place of learning, belonging, growth and success.
Regards Michael Gray
President
Also in this newsletter:
Presidents Ball 2025: Save the date!
Primary Principals Day 2024: Video message from Hon Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education and message from Hon Di Farmer MP, QLD Minister for Education and Minister for Youth Justice.
The Educator Australia article: Principals secure national advisory role to Federal Education Minister.
The information contained in and/or the views and opinions expressed in content made by third party service providers and shared with VACPSP Members represents the views and opinions of the original creators of that content only and does not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the VACPSP. The sharing of material or content from third party service providers is done for educational purposes only and to provide information and resources that may provide benefit to some or all VACPSP Members. The sharing of this content does not constitute an endorsement by the VACPSP of such content.
The VACPSP disclaims any and all liability to any party for any direct, indirect, implied or other consequential damage or hurt caused by or arising from third party material and content, which is provided as is and without any warranties.
VACPSP President's Ball 2025: Nominations Closed
Nominations are now closed for the 2025 Principal Awards for Excellence! After the success of the 2023 event, the 2025 event will again be held at the Melbourne Town Hall for a formal black-tie dinner and celebration.
Bring family, friends and staff along to Celebrate The Principal.
Save the date for this stellar, sell-out event on Friday 21 March 2025.
2024 Australian Primary Principals Day
Message from, Hon Di Farmer MP - QLD Minister for Education and Minister for Youth Justice:
The Educator Australia article: Principals secure national advisory role to Federal Education Minister:
Prayer
Loving and generous God, awaken us to your presence as we continue to discern what is life-giving, empowering and sustainable for the good of all Catholic primary Principals, the school communities we support and the students we serve.
May our inspiration and commitment deepen as we reflect on and respond to the needs of Principals according to the vision of the Gospel and the voice of the Spirit.
Pour out your abundant blessings upon all involved in Principalship, a ministry of witness and leadership in Catholic education.
Our Lady of the Southern Cross, Help of Christians, pray for us.
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Patron of Catholic Education in Australia, pray for us.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this newsletter update and a snapshot of the actions, connections and programs that the Association supports, leads or engages with on your behalf.
I am proud to represent the Victorian Catholic Primary Principal voice statewide and nationally and lead this professional, influential and trusted collegial body. By being a Member, your perspective, experience and knowledge of the school context joins the wealth of knowledge we take to key stakeholders to inform discussions.
As always, I not only welcome but encourage active communication between myself and members and look forward to engaging with you in person, phone or by email. Please share your insight with me at any time, be it through your Principal Council Representative or directly by emailing president@vacpsp.org.au or booking a call with me here.
Thank you to our Business Partners
