A stint at regional State schools and a passion for pastoral care have combined to guide Bree Brockenshire to Maryborough.
Ms Brockenshire is the new principal of St Mary’s College in the Fraser Coast city, 250km north of Brisbane.
She said her decision to return to a rural school was driven by her previous tenure working at Goondiwindi State High School and Isis District State High School Childers, as well as her innate desire to make a difference within her community.
“I’ve always enjoyed working in rural settings as you are naturally more involved with school life.
“You are forced out of your office and onto the ground.”
Ms Brockenshire started in her role in Term 3 of this year, after completing Brisbane Catholic Education’s (BCE) Women Breakthrough to Principalship program in 2022.
The program aims to empower, inspire, and elevate aspiring female Principals across BCE’s 146 schools and offices.
Ms Brockenshire said it was pastoral care that brought her back to the Catholic school system in 2019, after teaching for the state system for 16 years.
“As a qualified guidance counsellor, I find the pastoral and restorative spaces offered by a Catholic education deeply fulfilling,” she said.
“The emphasis on nurturing the whole person, not just academically but emotionally and spiritually, aligns closely with my personal values and professional ethos.”
She said in a Catholic school environment, she had the opportunity to support students in navigating life’s challenges, guiding them towards holistic growth and development.
As an avid netball coach and musician, Ms Brockenshire was looking forward to connecting with her new students and exploring their passions and interests.
“I love to get involved in extracurricular activities, as it’s a great way to get to know students beyond the classroom,” she said.
Learn more about St Mary’s College Maryborough.
