Last weeks Australian Catholic Education Conference in Cairns was hailed a tremendous success, bringing together more than 1,400 Catholic educators, leaders, clergy, parents, and others involved in Catholic education from across Australia and overseas for three days of learning, dialogue, and celebration. The energy, hope, and commitment to Catholic education were evident throughout every aspect of the event.
From world-class keynote speakers – Sr Nathalie Becquart xmcj, Prof Dylan Wiliam, Dr Steve Constantino, Dr Simon Breakspear, and Dr Jordana Hunter – to more than 70 masterclasses, workshops, and panels, delegates were able to attend concurrent sessions over nine streams focused on the strategic priorities of Faith, Excellence, and Access.
National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) Executive Director Jacinta Collins said the depth and quality of the concurrent sessions were particularly praised.
“Those who led masterclasses, workshops, and presentations brought a wide range of perspectives and experiences from across Catholic education in Australia,” Jacinta said.
Presenters shared their expertise, research and practical insights offering delegates ideas and approaches to consider in their own school and community contexts. Many delegates noted the thoughtful preparation and professionalism of those leading sessions, which contributed to a positive and engaging learning environment.
Throughout the program, themes such as Catholic identity and mission, learning and teaching, leadership, governance, parent and parish engagement, infrastructure, and advocacy were explored with depth and openness.
“The quality of discussion reflected a shared commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement across the Catholic education community,” she said.
A highlight of the main plenary program was the In Conversation session with Archbishop of Sydney Anthony Fisher OP and Federal Education Minister Jason Clare MP, moderated by Jacinta Collins.
Minister Clare affirmed the vocation of teaching, saying:
“The work everyone here does is the most important in the world. What you are doing as teachers for the next generations of Australians will live on forever.”
Archbishop Fisher reminded delegates of the deeper vision guiding Catholic schools:
“Hope means you’ll persevere through the hard times. A visionary faith-based hope means we can see real progress in our three strategic priorities of Faith, Access and Excellence. There is so much unrealised potential in Catholic education.”
“The Cairns gathering was more than a conference,” Jacinta said. “It was a celebration of Catholic education’s mission, offering hope, challenge, and a renewed sense of purpose for those entrusted with supporting the human flourishing of young people in our schools.”
Download the Program — Australian Catholic Education Conference
