Dear Colleagues, Parents, and Friends of Catholic Education WA, 

We are now halfway through what has been a very busy year. Once again, I want to thank our principals, teachers, and support staff for the immense effort and commitment shown to ensure our schools run smoothly and deliver the quality education families have come to expect of us.  

School production season hit full swing this term. The talent on display in these productions is commendable and I know there are hours of work by performers, musicians, production crew and staff which go in to making them a success. I congratulate all students and staff involved in these productions.  

Another important milestone this term, is the annual LifeLink Days for Primary and Secondary Schools which marks its 25^th anniversary this year. That’s twenty-five years of Catholic school students finding creative and inspiring ways to raise funds for this important cause, and I am inspired by the service to community they have all shown.   

In exciting news, we have now broken ground at the site of our newest Catholic school, St Marcellin Catholic College in Madora Bay. I was delighted to join the ceremony, alongside Foundation Principal Anita O’Donohue, and to meet the first family to enrol at the school. Enrolling in a brand-new school is a big step and signals families have faith in the quality, affordable offering from each of our Catholic schools. 

I am conscious that the broad scope of activity I’ve outlined relies on a highly skilled, passionate and thoughtful staff. It is important that as a group, our people exemplify continued growth and lifelong learning. So, it was particularly important that in May, Catholic education office staff gathered in Perth for the annual Staff Development Day. Through a varied program, I hope staff felt enriched, and deepened their understanding of the rich history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Days like this are vital to our collective journey towards reconciliation, so I thank staff for wholeheartedly embracing the day’s activities. 

The delivery of both the Federal and State budgets in May is a reminder of the complex funding environment in which Catholic schools operate. I know, as do many of you, that our schools save the Government a considerable amount of money, and in many parts of the Kimberley Catholic schools provide the only education service to families. In that context we continue to remind the Government that Catholic students in WA deserve a fair funding deal, one that is in line with other States, and which acknowledges the right parents have to choose a school which aligns with their personal beliefs.  

Next term we will celebrate some examples of why parents make that choice as nominations for the Quality Catholic Education Awards open, as well as the Catholic Arts Festival and Angelico Exhibition. School and Office Leaders from across the State will also gather for our Leaders Forum Roadshows. These Roadshows are opportunities for our leadership to deepen their understanding of our core issues and solidify relationships which are so important to the smooth operation of our system.  

I wish you all a safe and restful break. I look forward to seeing you again next term.  

Yours sincerely 

Wayne Bull
Executive Director
Catholic Education Western Australia