For more than 40 years, Michael O’Brien has dedicated his life to Catholic education, inspiring generations of young people to see learning as a lifelong journey and faith as a guide for living with purpose. As Vice Rector: Mission and Identity at Padua College, Kedron, Brisbane, he encourages students to look beyond academic achievement, fostering compassion, wisdom and a commitment to serving others. Whether leading faith formation or accompanying students on outreach through Rosies, Michael believes that the simplest acts of kindness can transform lives and that every encounter offers an opportunity to learn, grow and make a difference.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
A love of learning and trying to learn something new every day.
Can you share a moment in your career where you really felt you made a difference?
Each time I take a group of boys out on a Rosies Street Van Outreach I feel I help change the perceptions of our boys to people who live on the margins. Showing how it’s in the simplest of gestures anyone can make a difference to someone’s life. It’ amazing how you get to know someone when you can out a name to a face!
Is there a story from your time teaching that has inspired you or had a deep impact on you?
Everyday something reminds the value of learning and teaching – its something about the getting of wisdom in its broadest sense. Our world needs more ‘wiser’ people!
How does your faith shape your teaching approach?
It is at the core of all that I am and hope to be.
What’s the most rewarding part of teaching in a Catholic school?
The sense of community you share with colleagues and students.
What do you think is the most valuable role Catholic education plays in today’s society?
That learning is not just about Maths and science and English – it’s about life with God at its heart and centre.