DUO MAGAZINE
EDUCATION+TRAINING HIGHLIGHT
Caring approach puts the individual first New and experienced faces balance Ryan Leadership Team.
I
t takes special skills, knowledge and caring to develop our next generation into well-rounded community members. Encompassing familiar faces and new team members, the nine-person leadership team at Ryan Catholic College is well qualified to support the students of North Queensland’s largest Catholic school. College Principal, David McNeale proudly describes his educational and pastoral leaders as ‘always putting the individual first’. “I can ask any one of our leadership team about a student or teacher in their campus, and they can give a run-down of their progress, needs, areas of interest and personality,” David says. Ryan Catholic College’s 2017 leadership team has extensive teaching and leadership experience. It is a balanced mix of well-known faces and new people who bring a wealth of ideas. “At a leadership level, we manage our evolving culture while maintaining tradition, and ensuring
106
DUOMagazine March 2017
we focus on a child’s unique needs.” Ryan Catholic College, has been a significant presence in Townsville’s education community since 1979. Situated across two campuses, it welcomes almost 2,000 students each school day, from Prep to Year 12. David says Ryan’s size positions the College to offer a large range of support services for students, a variety of subjects with specialist teachers within those subjects, and first rate facilities. “The College offers the most up-to-date facilities and programs, whilst generating a strong sense of community and family,” David says. “We have a deep commitment to providing a meaningful and challenging education within a Catholic environment. Respect and good manners are cornerstones of these standards.” A key member of the leadership team is Fr Dave Lancini, whose pastoral guidance is valued by students, parents and staff alike. Fr Dave provides a strong link between the education structures
of the College, the pastoral care of the families and the Catholic faith which is rooted in the local parish. “We consider him part of our team, part of our College and part of our community,” David says. “In the busy environment of our growing education facility, Fr Dave helps us to stay focused on our theme of the Emmaus journey. It is a metaphor that underpins our pastoral care approach, for portraying the growth that all people experience in developing their spirituality, intellect, physical and social capabilities and wisdom. This theme is built on the pillars of journey, community and service.” Ryan Catholic College has an enviable reputation for achieving academic excellence while also providing a broad education, so that all students find a suitable pathway for attaining their goals. Connect now www.ryan.catholic.edu.au