Bundaberg Catholic students are among those returning to school this week, including three primary schools and Shalom College.
Rockhampton Diocese Director Leesa Jeffcoat said there was a great sense of anticipation heading into the first week back at school.
“Our teachers and staff are refreshed by the Christmas holiday period after a very challenging 2020 and are very much looking forward to welcoming students and families back to our school communities,” Miss Jeffcoat said.
“Everyone is very positive about the year ahead and eager to get teaching and learning under way.”
This year Catholic Education celebrates 200 years in Australia, marking the bicentenary of the first Catholic school which opened in Parramatta in greater western Sydney.
“It’s quite a significant milestone and we are very excited to join with Catholic school communities around the nation to celebrate the great story of Catholic education in Australia,” Miss Jeffcoat said.
Under the theme Faith in our Future, national celebrations include an official launch in each state, territory and diocese in the week commencing February 22, and a national Mass celebrated simultaneously on the Feast of Our Lady Help of Christians on 24 May.
“There are many great inspirational stories of sacrifice, dedication and commitment that have contributed to the continued growth and development of Catholic education in Australia and in our own diocese which has led to Catholic education becoming the single largest non-government school sector,” Miss Jeffcoat said.
“As we reflect on the achievements of the past, we will also look to the future for ways we can continually improve our delivery of an excellent faith-based education that serves the needs of families in our communities,” Miss Jeffcoat said.
Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton comprises 10 kindergartens, 31 primary schools and eight colleges in regional and rural centres from Mackay to Bundaberg and west to Longreach.
