The joyous sounds of a Ukulele ensemble, mixed with CEO Staff participating in song, marked the end of Helen O’Brien’s outstanding years with Catholic Education in South Australia.
Helen started her career as a Junior Primary Teacher. Over time, she progressed to Principal, Area Education Consultant, Assistant Director of the Religious Identity and Leading Learning Team, then finally to Director of Catholic Education SA - where she graciously and courageously led for the last two and a half years.
A combined ensemble of 12 Junior Primary Students from St Anthony’s School, Edwardstown and Christ the King School, Warradale farewelled her on behalf of all students in Catholic schools in South Australia.
The students, led by their enthusiastic teacher, Matt Young, gave Helen instructions on how to play the Ukulele and Helen was soon strumming along with the best of them! The ensemble led the assembled Catholic Education Office (CEO) Staff in moving renditions of 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat' and 'Freres Jacques'. The joy on Helen’s face was obvious... she was at home.
The students then joined with CEO Staff in a beautiful morning tea with Helen.
Catholic Education South Australia staff are thankful and grateful to have had Helen to lead and guide them over many years and they wish her every blessing as she now embarks on a new chapter in her life. Helen's wisdom, friendship and laughter will be greatly missed.
This story was submitted by the Directorate Team at Catholic Education South Australia.
Congratulations to Reece Graetz, a graduate of St Francis de Sales College, on winning the 2016 Kathleen McPhee Music Scholarship.
The Kathleen McPhee Scholarship is awarded to a student from a South Australian Catholic secondary school who has studied classical, jazz or indigenous music at Year 12 level and intends to continue, or is continuing study of music at a tertiary institution.
