As the school year ends and we approach Christmas I reflect on 2018 as a year of consolidation in which CEWA has responded to the needs of our communities to provide engaging, Christ-centred learning.

Along with key initiatives including CEWA’s Vision for Learning and Child Safe Framework, we have worked with the Catholic Education Commission of Western Australia to determine our direction for the next three years.

The result of an extensive consultation process, Strategic Directions 2019 – 2021 responds to our call to serve our diverse communities and is formed out of a vision to provide engaged learning environments where all are inspired to actively live the Gospel.  At the heart of our strategic directions are a set of guiding principles that will inform our decisions and direct our actions as a Christ-centred Catholic education community of schools and offices.

We are now also on a journey of listening to God by listening to each other as we engage in dialogue ahead of Plenary Council 2020. I encourage everyone to join in, to listen and contribute to the discussion because our role as Catholic educators is intrinsically intertwined in the future of the Catholic Church in Australia.

Looking ahead to 2019, CEWA will continue to focus on digital technology and engaging learning environments, always motivated by creating Christ-centred communities and inspiring all to live the Gospels.

Our challenge as Catholic educators is to embrace our mission – to deliver meaningful and engaging learning that will enhance and enrich the lives of the children and young people in our care.

As a collective, it is my hope that we will approach the new year as Pope Francis calls us in Gaudete et Exsultate, to rediscover Holiness through action.

Pope Francis asks us to set our sights higher and to allow ourselves to be liberated by love and be guided by the Holy Spirit. Let us embrace God in every subtle aspect of our work, by learning from Jesus as we strive to provide a safe and supportive environment in which students not only achieve academically, but also practice the Gospel truths to discover their own calling and create a society envisioned by God.

“Do not be afraid of holiness. It will take away none of your energy, vitality or joy. On the contrary, you will become what the Father had in mind when he created you, and you will be faithful to your deepest self.”

As we prepare to celebrate the miraculous birth of Jesus to the Virgin Mary, let us remember her strength and humility and strive to develop these qualities in ourselves, our families and our communities.

Wishing you a blessed Christmas and restful holiday.

Dr Debra Sayce
Executive Director
Catholic Education Western Australia

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