This week I have had the privilege of attending the Australian Education Conference in Cairns, a gathering that brought together educational leaders, researchers, and practitioners from across the nation. The conference was both inspiring and challenging, offering an invaluable opportunity to reflect on the future of education in Australia and how we, as a school community, can continue to provide the best possible learning environment for our students.
The scale of the event itself was remarkable: 1,452 delegates, 176 speakers and presenters, 84 sessions, representatives from 7 countries, and all with one shared mission, to ensure that education continues to transform lives and serve the common good. Being among so many dedicated educators highlighted the richness and diversity of our profession and the collective passion we share for shaping the future of young people within our shared faith and commitment to education excellence.
The overarching theme of the conference was “Hope, anchored in faith” This theme underscores the conference’s guiding pillars of Faith, Excellence, and Access, forming the strategic focus for all sessions and workshops. This theme aligns with the 2025 Jubilee Year theme, “Pilgrims of Hope”, and is reflected in the conference’s visual branding, featuring the First Nations artwork Tenacious Dreaming by Susan Rey. Program streams and presentations have revolved around fostering Catholic identity and mission, strengthening learning and teaching, and enhancing leadership, governance, community engagement, and more, all infused with the central theme of faith-inspired hope.
Keynote speakers addressed the rapidly changing landscape of education in response to global trends, cultural shifts, and the needs of our young people as they prepare for life in an increasingly complex world. A recurring message throughout the conference has been the importance of balancing tradition with innovation: holding firmly to the enduring values of education while embracing new methods, tools, and perspectives that equip students for tomorrow’s challenges.
A particular highlight was the keynote address from Sr Natalie Bequart, who has played a significant role in the global Catholic Church’s ongoing synodal journey. Sr Natalie spoke with depth, warmth, and conviction about what it means for Catholic schools to be places of accompaniment and hope. She reminded us that education is not only about academic achievement but about forming the whole person in community.
Her reflection centred on the concept of synodality - walking together, listening deeply, and discerning pathways forward as a people of faith. Sr Natalie challenged us to create school environments where students feel truly heard and valued, and where their voices shape the direction of our shared life. She invited educators to model a Church that is open, compassionate, and ready to serve, echoing Pope Francis’ vision of a community that “goes to the margins” and accompanies all people on their journey.
This message has particular relevance for us at John Paul College. Our pastoral care structures, our emphasis on inclusion and belonging, and our commitment to justice and service are all ways in which we strive to live this vision of walking together. Sr Natalie’s words were a reminder to never lose sight of the sacred trust we hold: to nurture not only the minds but also the hearts and spirits of the young people entrusted to our care.