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The triennial NZ Catholic Education Convention, which brings together those involved in Catholic education in the broadest sense took place in Wellington this week.
The New Zealand Catholic Bishops have been be in attendance throughout the convention which has been attended by teachers, principals, staff, Boards of Trustees, priests, advisors, adult educators and academics.
This year the celebrations have had a greater significance, because four educational leaders in the Catholic network have received Queen’s honours this year.
Brother Sir Patrick Lynch received a knighthood for his services to education, in the new year’s honours 2015.
He will step down later this year after 22 years as chief executive of NZ Catholic Education.
Three principals of catholic schools have also been acknowledged in the recent Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
Elizabeth Horgan of St Joseph’s School, Otahuhu, Anne Miles of McAuley High School, Otahuhu and Paul Daley recently retired Principal of Sancta Maria College, Botany were all honoured as Members of the New Zealand Order of Merit for their services to education.
It is also 40 years since Catholic schools were integrated into the State education system.
“Today we have 66,000 students in our 238 schools and an increasing number of adults in tertiary learning programmes, add to that 40 years of an integration relationship with the State and three people receiving honours for their contribution to education, so we have much to be grateful for,” said Lynch.
“I’m confident in my time as chief executive of the catholic education office that there is a bright future ahead, invigorated by the faith that new kiwis bring plus the legacy of extraordinary work of all those who’ve contributed to Catholic education over the last generation.”
Speaking of his knighthood Lynch said, “It’s humbling to be acknowledged in this special way but I believe the honour belongs to all of us who work in Catholic education, from teachers, support staff, advisors, Bishops, priests, parents, Boards of Trustees, and countless others, many of whom have not received accolades or praise for what often happens behind the scenes and for many over a lifetime.
“It also honours those who’ve gone before us , especially those who established Catholic Schools, with the goal of providing a quality education for all young people, no matter their circumstances.”
At the gathering a portal created in partnership with Microsoft was launched to provide religious education resources and a secure mechanism to encourage members of the Catholic education community to collaborate and share quality resources throughout the country.
Education Minister Hon Hekia Parata also addressed the gathering.
Source
- voxy.co.nz
- Image: screenshot cathedconvention2015.co.nz
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