The group visited St Francis’ School in Maddington, St Jude’s Catholic School in Langford, and Lumen Christi College in Martin on Tuesday 14 March, meeting with Principals, teachers, and students from each of the schools and had the opportunity to hear about the great work occurring inside and outside the classroom.

Hon Collins also spoke to Catholic education WA senior leaders at the Leaders’ Forum held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Hon Jacinta Collins said: ‘It’s one of the best parts of my job to visit our school communities across Australia and to have the opportunity to speak with students and staff about how they are realising the mission of Catholic education.

‘CEWA is focused on enabling greater accessibility to Catholic schools and early childhood and care centres in their state, improving the quality of learning and teaching for each and every student, and enriching the faith lives of students and staff which is crucial to this mission.’

Dr Debra Sayce, Catholic Education WA Executive Director said: ‘It has been a pleasure to be able to give Jacinta a flavour of what is happening in WA’s Catholic schools on a daily basis. In meeting teachers and students, I have once again been struck by thoughtful, committed Catholic educators and leadership within our schools.’

Ms Eva Skira, Chair of Catholic Education Commission WA said: ‘Catholic schools offer parents in WA the choice of an accessible, affordable, quality, Christ- centred and child-focused education. Each of the schools we visited today are great examples of Catholic schools meeting the needs of our communities.

‘In speaking to staff and students at the schools I know that our schools are places where students are supported to reach their God-given potential and instilled with the skills and values to become outstanding citizens. This is why more families than ever before are choosing a Catholic education for their child.’

Siobhan Allen, Catholic School Parents WA Executive Director said: ‘Parents who choose a Catholic school find that their child receives not just an excellent academic experience but are supported to grow spiritually and emotionally. Today, we have seen first-hand why – with passionate teachers and well-run schools, young people are benefitting from their parents’ choice of school.’