I take the opportunity to thank the Whitefriars College community for the support afforded to me during my time as Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching before taking extended leave next week in preparation for the Principal role at Salesian College Chadstone, Term 4.

I have been very fortunate to have had the exciting leadership opportunity to lead learning at the College, working with the Carmelites, staff, students, parents and old collegians. Fostering a school learning focus, building the capacity of teachers and leaders, empowering student learning and developing an academic culture (Subject Selection, Academic Study Centre, Elias Tutoring program), implementing Whitefriars Learn and Engage, enhancing the facilities (Library, Science and Technologies, classrooms) and partaking in the indigenous immersion, reconciliation day and Kairos Retreat have been highlights of my time at the College. It has been in the building of relationships, learning in the natural environment and the Carmelite tenets that have allowed me to learn and develop as a leader.

I would like to thank members of the College Leadership Team, Professional Learning Committee, Operations Team and SEQTA Implementation team that I worked closely. Likewise, thank you to the students for your candour and participation, especially the Academic SRC and students from my classes and sport.

Finally, thank you to the Learning Team, an amazing collection of educators who are always looking to improve learning at the College so that each student achieves their best.

Mark Ashmore

Deputy Principal – Learning & Teaching