This week we have been fortunate to have our 4-yearly school School Renewal and Improvement Review. Toowoomba Catholic Schools (TCS) quadrennial school reviews are an important part of school improvement. The reviews provide schools with independent feedback to help them continue to improve student learning outcomes and wellbeing. Our review has provided a valuable opportunity for self-reflection and improvement. The recommendations will form the basis for the review of our Strategic Plan which will set the direction of the school

Overall, the review has been very positive and affirming of the wonderful work that goes on at St Joseph’s School. My thanks to the staff, students, families and the wider community for your contribution to our success. Thanks also to those who have provided feedback for the review and the review panel (Maryanne Walsh, TCS Senior Education Leader; John Coman, Consultant; and  Liisa Hammond, Principal, Assumption College Warwick ) for their support of the school. They have all expressed a real joy visiting the school and sharing in our journey.

This week we were privileged to have two special guest speakers visit the school to address the students on leadership, teamwork, mateship, good decision making and planning for the future.

Doug Baird OAM father of the late CPL Cameron Baird VC MG, and Major John Thurgar SC MBE OAM RFD (retired), came to speak to the Blue Edge students and  Years 6-12. Both are amazing Australians who have given great service and sacrifice to the nation.

In Doug’s case, he has worked exceptionally hard to remember the legacy and service of his son Cameron who gave his life saving his team mates in Afghanistan in 2013 and, as a result, was awarded the Victoria Cross. Doug spends much time supporting veterans and educating young people about the history and significance of the Victoria Cross and the service of ADF members. Doug took the time after his main presentation to meet with the Year 6 students in their classroom and hold a question and answer session, which both he and the students thoroughly enjoyed.

Similarly, John Thurgar, himself a special forces veteran and retired Australia Federal Police member, does much to support veterans and educate young people. John worked with Cameron Baird when he was a young soldier. John also was awarded the Star of Courage, Australia’s second highest bravery award, for saving the life of a farmer who strayed into a minefield and stepped on a mine in Cypress.  

Doug and John expressed their sincere thanks to the St Joey’s community for the invitation to visit the school.

God Bless