Principal's Message: 23 October 2026

Dear families,

This week’s message is a departure from my usual. As we head into next week, when we celebrate World Teachers’ Day, I’ve been thinking back to my son’s educational journey.

The last time I shared a parenting story in this forum, it was very well received, so I hope you will indulge me once again.

Last Friday night, as my husband and I were driving home after watching our son Ryan and his band perform on a small stage in a bar on High Street Northcote, we passed by a group of shops, one of which was my music school growing up. I couldn’t help but think about my own parents, who, back in the day, speaking little to no English, decided to have me start organ lessons at the age of 7. What had compelled them to do such a thing? A couple who’d left Italy in their 20s, not made it past primary school, with no musical training (though very much into music themselves).

I decided to ask my mum that weekend. It turns out that my Year 2 teacher, Ms Cox, had met with my parents to tell them she thought I had an ear for music. I believe we were learning the recorder at the time. She encouraged them to enrol me to learn an instrument. My parents listened, obliged, and I commenced lessons later that month.

I can, quite literally, trace Ryan’s gig on Friday night, his musical interest and his uptake of several instruments, to Ms Cox planting this seed in a migrant couple who would not have known otherwise. Such is the power of an educator.

This World Teachers’ Day, I thank all who have chosen, or been chosen, to enter the vocation for the amazing contribution they have made to countless lives. There is a saying about teachers planting seeds they may never see grow. Ms Cox followed her instinct, and the fruits of that simple conversation, more than likely quickly forgotten by her, have had a lasting, positive impact on my family at least one generation later.

I am certain there are many similar stories out there. Share them far and wide and, if you have the chance next week, thank a teacher.

Thank you to the wonderful educators at St Mary’s. I am privileged to get to work alongside you each day.

Kind  Safe  Responsible