Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong

Last week, we celebrated Primary Principals’ Day — an opportunity to recognise the incredible leaders who guide our school communities with faith, compassion and dedication.

We loved seeing the wonderful ways our schools celebrated their principals, and we’re pleased to share a few highlights. 📸✨

To all our primary principals, thank you for your leadership, care and commitment to helping every student, family and staff member flourish. We are grateful for all that you do! 🙏

🌟 Teachers Who Inspire: Leesa Ellul 🌟

For almost three decades, Leesa has been inspiring young learners and creating classrooms where every child feels valued, supported and empowered to thrive.

As an educator at Good Samaritan Catholic Primary School, Fairy Meadow, Leesa brings together faith, learning and wellbeing, helping students grow with confidence.

Her story is a wonderful reminder of the lasting impact a dedicated Catholic educator can have. 🙏

Read the inspiring story by the National Catholic Education Commission here:

Teachers Who Inspire: Lisa Ellul - creating classrooms where every child thrives - NCEC For nearly three decades, Leesa Ellul has dedicated her career to helping children discover the joy of learning while ensuring every student feels valued, supported and capable of success.

We are proud to celebrate the graduates from across our school communities who are preparing to represent Australia at the 2026 Commonwealth Games; Delta Amidzovski (Corpus Christi Catholic High School, Oak Flats) and Jessica Cole (St Mary Star of the Sea College, Wollongong).

From local sporting fields and school competitions to the international stage, their journeys are a testament to the power of commitment, resilience and the opportunities that help young people discover and develop their gifts.

As they prepare to compete amongst the world’s best, we congratulate each athlete and wish them every success. Your achievements inspire the next generation of students to pursue excellence—in sport, in learning and in life.

Read their stories here: https://www.dow.catholic.edu.au/news/cedow-sport-graduates-ready-for-the-2026-commonwealth-games

Earlier this week, our year 6 student leaders from across the Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong gathered in faith and community to celebrate a special Mass, giving thanks for their leadership and the important role they play within their school communities.

As they prepare for the next chapter of their educational journey, we pray that they continue to lead with courage, compassion and humility, following Christ's example in all they do.

May God bless each of our Year 6 students as they continue to grow in faith, wisdom and service to others.

The Council of Catholic School Parents 2026 conference is coming up: Supporting Families: Working Together in a Modern World. An inspiring one-day event exploring how we can better support children and young people as they grow in today's rapidly changing world.

Featuring expert speakers and practical insights, this conference will explore topics including family relationships, wellbeing, education, technology and the shared role we all play in helping children flourish.

We know that when schools and families work together, young people are empowered to thrive—academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually.

📅 Saturday 22 August 2026
📍 Rydges World Square, Sydney

Find out more and get your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/supporting-families-working-together-in-a-modern-world-sydney-2026-tickets-1988609113390?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwY2xjawTM4SlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFqUVBzMTJoYlpYRzA4OUtuc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpg9pZytVvlnQLbN4PGeAJfYMxEMvaKubmFaWdASNJN3f0tHrK2NeyBXvGPq_aem_jqhUlgpTGGWo8T0-6z1PpQ&utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e0_tv2_a1demonsmx558w

Today, it has been announced that our Executive Director of Schools, Peter Hill, will conclude his leadership of Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW) later this year. Peter has accepted an invitation to be the new Executive Director with Brisbane Catholic Education. Peter will commence in his new role on 26 October 2026.

Over the past seven years, Peter has faithfully led our system of schools with humility, courage, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the mission of Catholic education. Peter’s leadership has provided a framework to empower school leaders, teachers, and CEO staff to deliver on our commitment to improve the faith, learning and wellbeing of every student.

We are immensely grateful for Peter's outstanding service to students, staff, families and parish communities. While we are very sad that he will conclude his time with us in Wollongong, we are delighted that he will continue his ministry in Catholic education, and we wish him every success.

Thank you Peter. You have our deepest gratitude and prayers as you prepare for this exciting new chapter in your life. You will leave a lasting legacy in schools in the Diocese of Wollongong.

📸 by Daniel Hopper.

Today, we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, honouring Mary as a model of faith, trust and discipleship.

Across our Catholic school communities, may Our Lady of Mount Carmel intercede for our students, families, educators and all who seek to live with hope, courage and compassion.

As we celebrate NAIDOC Week, we honour the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples—the custodians of the world's oldest continuous living cultures—and give thanks for their enduring wisdom, resilience and rich cultural legacy.

This year's theme, 50 Years of Deadly, recognises five decades of celebrating First Nations pride, leadership and achievement, while acknowledging the strength of those who have preserved culture, shared stories and paved the way for future generations.

May this week inspire us to listen with open hearts, walk together in the spirit of reconciliation, and continue building a future founded on truth, respect and hope.

Do you want to equip yourself with the knowledge to keep your family safe in an evolving digital world? Join the expert team at the eSafety Commissioner hosted by Council of Catholic School Parents for a highly beneficial free webinar: How AI is influencing new online risks for children and young people.

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a tool of the future—it’s already built into many of the everyday apps, games, and online services our children use. While it brings exciting possibilities, it also introduces new cyber safety risks that parents and educators need to navigate.

When: Wednesday 24 June 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM (AEST)

Secure your virtual seat today! Register here: https://register.gotowebinar.com/ /1629792246893231964

This week, school leaders from across the diocese gathered at Magdalene Catholic College, Narellan, for our annual system-wide professional learning day. We were incredibly privileged to hear a powerful keynote address from renowned author, journalist, and moral philosopher, Professor Stan Grant.

Drawing on his experiences as a Wiradjuri, Kamilaroi, and Dharawal man with a deep Catholic faith, Stan challenged us to be “the rock in the rapids of the modern world.”

Read more and view images from the day here: https://tinyurl.com/26zdj75m