Director of Catholic Education SA, Helen O’Brien reflects on her visit:
There are some learning environments where the success or otherwise of the education provided is critical to the life chance and success of the young people there: the St Joseph’s Education Centre at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College is such a place.
I commenced my visit to the centre in the babies room to find a group of children being loved into learning while their mums were in the learning area adjacent, undertaking their SACE studies. Both rooms were places where learning, care and a deep regard for the potential of the learners is at the forefront of the programs offered. The babies, of course, are just delightful! And the young women are inspirational!
I had the pleasure of being in the audience of a Year 11 presentation focused on the rights and abuses of women across the world. The young women began their focus on matters known within the international community where other young women are denied access to basic human rights including education. They then moved to the Australian context and shared information related to women in public life here in Adelaide. Importantly, they were able to reflect on their lives and the importance of education as a pathway to personal agency and wellbeing for them and their children.
A small number of young women who were previous students of the centre were present and spoke about their journey within the centre and beyond. St Joseph’s Education Centre makes a difference in the lives of the young women who attend. It was wonderful to hear the hopes and dreams of the present students and to see how similar hopes and dreams are coming to reality for those recent graduates. Dr Sue Knight and her staff at the centre are at the heart of this work and they are to be commended for their influence. Ms Maria Urbano, new Principal to the college this year, has every reason to be pleased with the outcomes being achieved. My heart was full of gratitude and pride as I left.
Intergenerational playgroups are truly something special — an experience that enriches the lives of both the young and the older members of our community. These playgroups are more than just a space for children to play; they are a vital platform for different generations to come together, share wisdom, and build meaningful relationships.
