A new chapter for Catholic Education in Orbost

8 July 2021

St Joseph’s Primary School in Orbost is about to start a fresh chapter, with the appointment of a new principal.

Mrs Kirsten Daly will commence as Principal at the beginning of Term 3.

Mrs Daly comes to Orbost from St Brendan’s Primary School in Lakes Entrance, where she has worked for 10 years and developed her leadership skills as the school’s Deputy Principal. She said she is eagerly anticipating her first principalship.

“I am looking forward to embracing and upholding St Joseph’s Gospel values of peace, justice, love and hope as I face this new challenge. My time at St Joseph’s will not be a sprint, but a marathon. I want to build a shared vision on strong foundations by creating relationships and a welcoming environment that’s based on trust,” Mrs Daly said.

The former Principal of St Joseph’s, Ms Marie Dodson, retired at the end of Term 2, after serving the Catholic education community for more than 50 years.

Ms Dodson spent her entire career working for the Catholic education sector as a teacher, curriculum specialist and as part of various school leadership teams. Ms Dodson said that while she will miss working at St Joseph’s, she is pleased to see an educator as talented as Mrs Daly take over leadership of the school.

“Kirsten brings a broad range of skills to her new position and has already begun making connections with students and staff during her visits. I hope to see her embrace every day with joy and a sense of fun as she encourages both staff and students to achieve their best,” she said.

Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Ms Maria Kirkwood, thanked Ms Dodson for her extensive service and congratulated Mrs Daly on her appointment.

“Kirsten is a dedicated member of our Catholic education community. She shares our belief that all students should have access to an education that fosters the best possible opportunities and outcomes.

“It’s wonderful to have her continue her professional journey within our Diocese, and we fully support her commitment to the future of Catholic education in Orbost. We will continue to work together to achieve our mission of providing educational excellence in faith and learning.”