As a deputy principal during the COVID pandemic, Britt Gurnett laid the foundation for an online learning platform she leads today, alongside her new job as school principal.
Ms Gurnett started as the principal of St John Fisher College Bracken Ridge this year, but is also principal of Brisbane Catholic Education’s (BCE) first online school, FisherONE Online Education.
During COVID, Ms Gurnett was part of the St John Fisher College team which explored digital solutions for senior students, with the aim to bring expert educators to their doorstep.
It was this transformative journey that ultimately gave rise to FisherONE.
“At the time I was deputy principal of St John Fisher College,” she said.
“COVID-19 forced us into the digital realm as students shifted to learning from home.
“When we returned to classrooms, we recognised the benefits of integrating online education as a viable option for students, both within our school community and beyond.”
Ms Gurnett said if a student desired to pursue an additional subject not available at their College they now have the option to enrol in subjects offered by FisherONE.
“FisherONE had evolved with global trends to create an innovative solution to provide high-quality, accessible education for senior students across Queensland.”
She said students should have access to subjects they’re passionate about, regardless of which school they attended.
“Whether they’re facing illness or residing at a distance, we’ve worked diligently to ensure these students have avenues to pursue their interests.
“I truly believe FisherONE’s hybrid model offers students the best of both worlds, live online lessons and flexible learning options which opens the doors for students and creates new career pathways.”
Ms Gurnett said a FisherONE education extended beyond the screen.
“It’s about building meaningful connections and igniting a passion for learning in the digital realm.”
“It has become my personal mission to prioritise the wellbeing of our students,” she said.
“Despite the challenges posed by remote learning, my team and I remain dedicated to fostering student wellbeing through regular virtual check-ins and creative online engagement strategies.”
She said through online forums and interactive discussions, they also strove to instil values of justice, service, and compassion in students, fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth.
The talent that allowed Ms Gurnett to embrace the dual-principal role was enhanced through BCE’s Women Breakthrough to Principalship Program in 2022 (now known as the Women in Leadership Program).
The unique BCE program aims to empower, inspire, and elevate aspiring female Principals across BCE’s 146 schools.
The program harnessed Britt’s impressive three decades of experience in the field of education, including nine years of experience working with the St John Fisher College Bracken Ridge school community across various leadership roles.
“Being entrusted with the role of Principal at St John Fisher College is a heartfelt honour,” Ms Gurnett said.
“It’s a privilege to continue nurturing the same community I’ve known and loved while pioneering digital education through FisherONE Online,” she said.
“Now as Principal overseeing Year 7 to Year 12, I’m committed to ensuring every stage of their educational journey is enriched with opportunities, both in-person and through FisherONE.”
Learn more about St John Fisher College.
Learn more about FisherONE.
