Published by National Catholic Education Commission on 17 September 2024
Catholic education leaders from around the country came together in Canberra last week for the Rural, Regional and Remote Directors meeting held at Parliament House. The meeting was held as part of the Catholic Education Leaders gathering in Canberra.
National Catholic education executive director Jacinta Collins and directors met with Assistant Minister for Education and Assistant Minister for Regional Development Senator the Hon Anthony Chisholm and Shadow Minister for Regional Education the Hon Darren Chester MP to discuss the opportunities and challenges impacting school communities in rural, regional and remote areas.
The meeting focused on the role of professional sharing and collaboration around matters that affect Catholic education in rural, regional and remote areas such as government policy development, school choice, and faith formation for Catholic leaders, staff and students. As well as the focus on educational excellence and the need for professional sharing and collaboration around resources to ensure equitable access to high quality education and successful outcomes.
Catholic Education, Diocese of Port Pirie diocesan director Nichii Mardon said the meeting was a valuable opportunity for rural, regional and remote Catholic education leaders to discuss with the Assistant Minister and Shadow Minister both common and local challenges they face.
“We identified a number of issues that impact us, like policy development from the government that can have a one-size-fits-all approach and create exacerbated challenges in remote communities,” said Nichii.
“They were very receptive to safeguarding the rich and strong community aspect Catholic education brings, as sometimes Catholic schools are the only education provider in these areas and pathways in regional areas are often difficult or non-existent.”
“We also had a great session where we discussed the provision and support around faith formation for our leaders and school staff as well as students, which is really important in remote areas as it impacts greatly on wellbeing.”
Assistant Minister Chisholm highlighted the importance of working closely with Catholic schools in the regions.
“Catholic schools play an integral part in the overall make up of our education sector in Australia, especially in our regional, rural and remote areas.
“It was a pleasure to join the Rural, Regional and Remote Education meeting last week at Parliament to discuss how we can continue to support Catholic schools in these areas so these communities continue to be a great place to live, work and raise a family.”
Shadow Minister Chester was high in his praise for the role that Catholic education plays in the regions and the sense of community that faith-based schools provide.
“The Catholic education sector plays an incredibly important role throughout rural and regional Australia and is a highly valued partner in helping our young people achieve their full potential,” he said.
“Regional Australia grows great food and fibre and we also ‘grow’ great children, thanks in part to the contribution of teachers and support staff in our local Catholic primary and secondary schools. I respect and value the choice that is provided by the sector and support policies that allow for a viable and flourishing future for Catholic schools across our nation.”
Top: Rural, Regional and Remote directors with National Catholic education executive director Jacinta Collins and Senator Anthony Chisholm. Above: Shadow Minister for Regional Education Darren Chester MP addresses leaders. Photos: Ryan Madalandag and Jude Coen.
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