Principals inspired by St Mary MacKillop in Australian tour

A group of 13 principals from the Hamilton Catholic Principals’ Association, joined by Hamilton Diocese education manager John Coulam, undertook a journey of both the heart and the mind in New South Wales.

They gained a deeper appreciation for St Mary’s indomitable spirit and her dedication to education and the poor. It was a powerful reminder that their work in their own school communities is part of a much larger, sacred mission.

The pilgrimage included a retreat focused on the call to mission and identity as Catholic leaders.

The “study tour” component included a visit to Google headquarters, where participants explored how artificial intelligence and tools like Gemini can be ethically and effectively integrated into Google for Education platforms.

The pilgrimage members also joined a Ministry of Education delegation to Marsden Road State School. They witnessed “high-impact” teaching strategies and explicit instruction in action, seeing first-hand how pedagogical changes can significantly lift student learning outcomes.

“We return to our respective schools . . . with full hearts and sharpened minds,” said Helen McGuigan, principal of St Mary’s Catholic School in Gisborne.

“This pilgrimage was more than just a trip; it was a chance to ‘fill our lamps’ so that we may continue to lead our communities with the same faith, courage and vision that Mary MacKillop showed us.”

FULL STORY

Walking in the Footsteps of a Saint: HCPA Leaders Find Spiritual Renewal in Sydney (Clearly/Catholic Diocese of Hamilton)