At each of our Board meetings we are meeting with Diocesan Directors to further establish strong and positive relationships with Catholic education authorities across the country.

It was a pleasure to be able to welcome Peter Turner, Director of Schools in the Diocese of Wollongong, who joined us as our guest speaker.  Peter generously gave his time to explore and discuss both the achievements and challenges of Catholic education in the present social climate.

Peter acknowledged that Catholic schools have been and continue to be high quality places  of both community and learning. We should all be proud of the work we do in schools and we must make sure we have a strong Catholic voice to the community in these trying times for the Catholic church.

Peter encouraged ACPPA to be a voice in the following areas: -

• Parent behaviour around social media and being a responsible and respectful member of the school community.
• Recognising our Catholic primary schools continue to be the face of the Church in many respects, especially in the light of recent events.
• Raising the profile of principals and what the challenges are for them in 2019 and beyond
• Expressing views on the level of domestic violence, the impacts on students, social and emotional needs of students and their families.

In closing Peter stressed that one of the most important skills principals require today is emotional intelligence. EQ in leadership is essential and significant in school communities and there is a need for good mentoring and coaching in this area.