ST BRIGID’S Catholic Primary School staff member and volunteer, Chrissie Turner, has been nominated for the 2022 Spirit of Catholic Education Award.
The award recognises individuals who are making outstanding contributions to the life of their school and community through demonstrating hope, excellence, teamwork and outstanding service to others.
Principal Duane Wann said that Chrissie strives to live by the school vision, mission and values which are ‘community, compassion and care’.
“Chrissie goes above and beyond what is expected within her role to enhance the community aspect of our school,” he said.
“We like to think we are a family oriented school and Chrissie leads the way in this area by assisting in numerous events that take place within the school and the parish.
“These events include school masses, liturgies, commemorate services, discos, movie nights, graduations, annual celebrations, feast days and Catholic Education Week.
“Her efforts demonstrate what community means at our school and she always displays a beautiful sense and touch of compassion and care.”
“Every morning Chrissie greets everyone with a friendly, ‘good morning’ and if there is ever an upset student, she will be there to be the listening ear to provide her support.”
Mr Wann said that part of her giving nature, she also helps families in need, offering assistance such as meals or donations to those who may be experiencing hardship.
“There is absolutely no end to the lengths that Chrissie will go to, in order to brighten the day of our students, families and staff, she exemplifies what it means to be caring and compassionate at our school.
“Chrissie has left a legacy of our mission and she is a shining lamp, always giving to those around her, our school is a better place and everyone within our school community are tremendously grateful to have Chrissie at our school.”
On hearing the news of her nomination Chrissie said she does not do what she does for recognition.
“I love the school, staff and each student at St Brigid’s.
“I receive so much satisfaction from being involved and I like to share my life experiences and stories with the children, and watching them grow into young adults it is very rewarding,” she said.
“Over the years I have taught students from Prep right through to year 6, their success and growth through their schooling years is what makes me so proud.
“One great benefit of living in the community of Rosewood is running into students once they graduate from primary school into high school and then from their senior years into the workforce.
“I enjoy staying in touch with the students and their families and hearing all about what they are achieving throughout their schooling years and in the outside world.
“Alongside teaching, I feel valued to be asked to come into the classrooms to talk to the students about my work in the church, and within the parish.
“The walks I have completed on the Kokoda track, in Nepal, Spain, South America, Ireland, Cambodia, throughout Australia and New Zealand are life experiences that I also like sharing with the children.”
Over the years she has met families from all walks of life and when given the opportunity to help those in need, she is always there.
“I especially love involving children in fund raising for children less fortunate than they are, through events like our school wheel-a-thon that provided fun and excitement for the school staff, children and their families,” she said.
“The pilgrimage walk that took place from Rosewood to Ipswich was an event that I organised, where the community came together and this meant so much to me.”
Outside of teaching and being involved in events and fundraising, Chrissie loves to work on the school gardens.
“I have always enjoyed gardening, it is relaxing and very rewarding, often when I am working in the gardens the children join me and ask all about the flowers and the plants,” she said.
“From turning the soil, to planting new seedlings, the end result is always worth it and when the children walk into the school yard and see the gardens blooming their big smiles light up my day.”
All nominations for the award will be considered by a panel of judges, who will shortlist the nominees and will receive a congratulatory letter from the Executive Director during Catholic Education Week which will be celebrated next month.
