8 July, 2021

Two of Gippsland’s Catholic primary schools will begin Term 3 with new school leaders.

Mr Joel Brayshaw has been appointed Principal of St Patrick’s Primary School in Stratford, while Mrs Maria Moore will become Principal of St Mary’s Primary School in Yarram.

Mr Brayshaw, a former student of St Patrick’s, said he is excited to return to his childhood town to reconnect with the Stratford community.

“I will strive to provide a welcoming school community, where students are engaged and teachers positively impact student learning,” he said.

Mr Brayshaw has been Principal of St Mary’s in Yarram since 2020. He said that while he will miss working at St Mary’s, he can’t think of a more talented educator to take over leadership of the school.

“Maria will be a huge asset to St Mary’s, as she has extensive knowledge of the students, teachers, and wider community of Yarram. She is passionate about developing the knowledge and skills of teachers and improving opportunities for all students,” he said.

Mrs Moore has been a primary school teacher for 26 years. She has served in a number of leadership roles, including Literacy Leader, Religious Education Leader and second-in-charge at St Mary’s. She said she is eagerly anticipating her first principalship.

“I have enjoyed working with Joel over the past 18 months. He has provided me with many opportunities to further my leadership skills. As Principal, I hope to enable and implement professional learning to drive teacher capacity and continuous improvement in all aspects of education,” she said.

Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Ms Maria Kirkwood, congratulated Mr Brayshaw and Mrs Moore on their appointments.

“Maria and Joel are dedicated members of our Catholic education community. They both share our belief that all students should have access to an education that fosters the best possible opportunities and outcomes.

“It’s wonderful to have them continue their professional journeys within our Diocese. I look forward to working with them to achieve our mission of providing educational excellence in faith and learning.”