Awards for Catholic leadership
Staff and students at West Gippsland Catholic schools were recognised for their commitment to Catholic education during a presentation of leadership and eucharist awards as part of Catholic Education Week recently.
Ben Cunningham was awarded a Spirit of Catholic Education - Inspiring Learning Award for his contribution to improving engagement and employment pathways for VCAL senior students.
His work strengthening partnerships within the community and businesses, has seen the introduction of several engaging project-based learning activities to the curriculum including the Marist Sion Coffee Cart and Mount Worth State Park projects.
Mr Cunningham is VCE coordinator and teaches VCE physical education as being a guide and mentor for graduate and early career teachers.
Jordan Wyatt of Marist Sion College and Olivia Costello of St Angela of the Cross Primary School both received Daniel Ahern Bursary awards, which provide financial support to staff employed in primary and secondary schools in the Diocese of Sale, who are currently undertaking teacher education studies.
Jordan has worked as a learning support officer at Marist Sion College since 2019 and is studying a Bachelor of Education in early childhood primary at Swinburne online. His passion regarding social justice and supporting vulnerable people in the community is evident in his support of all students, particularly students with additional needs.
Olivia works in a casual position at St Angela of the Cross Primary School, as well as being involved in St John’s Parish in Trafalgar. She is completing her fourth year at Monash University, where she is studying a Bachelor of Education (honours) in primary education.
Olivia believes Catholic schools encourage children from a young age to think beyond themselves and to be of service to others. One of her goals when she becomes a teacher is to help children grow, not only academically, but emotionally and spiritually.
The Fr James Wall ‘”leadership achievement award” was presented to Marist Sion College Zali Miron, who was one of seven students to each receive $4000 from the Catholic Development Fund to assist with school fees and other expenses incurred while studying years 11 and 12.
Zali received the award as recognition of her leadership and service as a college ambassador, leading tours for prospective families, participating in the college production and partaking in the year 10 music ministry class which leads College Liturgical Celebrations.
Zali also represented Marist Sion in the Day of Dialogue, where students from six schools of differing faiths meet to learn about each other and other religious traditions.