Principal's News
Dear Parents, Students and Friends
I am humbled and deeply honoured to share the news of my appointment as Principal of St Mary MacKillop Catholic College, Canberra. As I prepare for this new chapter, my heart is full of gratitude for the past seven years at Carroll College, Broulee. It has been a true privilege to serve a community I love so dearly, and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together. The spirit, faith, and resilience of Carroll College have shaped me both personally and professionally, and I will always carry that with me. While it will be difficult to say goodbye, I will do so with a profound sense of pride and affection, and with excitement for the opportunity to continue serving Catholic education in our Archdiocese at MacKillop from 2026. I have served as Principal across our K-12 Catholic Pathway schools on the Coast for 21 years, so a new challenge awaits in Canberra. I will have more to say as we come to the end of the school year, but I want to take this moment to express my deep appreciation for the Carroll College community. The formal announcement from the Executive Director, David de Carvalho has been included in this newsletter edition.
CECG Visitors
We have had several visitors this week from head office in Canberra. On Tuesday, Patrick Ellis – Education Lead and Maria O’Donnell – Senior Officer Teaching and Learning met with Andrew Kenneally, Erica Drewsen, Jason Szkwarek and I to discuss our teaching and learning initiatives. I’ve highlighted some of what was discussed below.
Professional Learning Teams
This year, the structure and focus of three staff meetings per term has taken a new direction. These meetings have been dedicated to Professional Learning Teams (PLTs), where staff collaborate to explore High Impact Teaching Practices, share pedagogy (the way we teach), and work together to improve student outcomes.
At Carroll College, we are committed to high-impact teaching practices that support clear instruction, active engagement, and effective feedback to improve student outcomes.
Through dedicated Professional Learning Teams (PLTs), staff collaborate regularly to reflect on pedagogy, share strategies, and use data to inform teaching. We value continuous professional growth and a student-centred approach, ensuring every learner is challenged, supported, and able to succeed.
On Wednesday, our newly appointed School Performance and Development Leader, Philippa Brearley, met with the College Executive team to engage in purposeful discussions about our strategic direction for 2026 and beyond. Carroll College continues to lead the way in innovative teaching and learning, embracing new tools and approaches to enhance practice. We are delighted to welcome Philippa to her new role and look forward to her support of our K–12 Catholic schools along the Coast.
This week, our visitors once again experienced the signature hospitality of Carroll College. A highlight was the outstanding work of our Years 9 and 10 Food Technology students, who prepared delicious acai bowls under the guidance of Mr Bissell. Their creativity and presentation were most impressive!
Announcement of the 2026 Student Leadership Team
It gives me great joy to announce the 2026 Carroll College Student Leadership Team. These students have been chosen not only for their commitment to our College but also for the values they demonstrate each day in their learning, relationships, and service to others.
Leadership at Carroll College is not about titles or positions - it is about responsibility, example, and service. Our leaders are called to live out the Gospel values of respect, integrity, compassion and courage, and to represent their peers with honesty and humility. They will be entrusted with the privilege of shaping the culture of our College, supporting younger students, and working with staff to strengthen our community spirit.
As Principal, I am immensely proud of the students who have accepted this responsibility. Their willingness to lead reflects both their personal character and the inspiration they draw from our College Patrons - Caroline Chisholm, St Mary of the Cross MacKillop and St Francis Xavier—who each modelled leadership through faith, service and a vision for others.
To the 2026 Student Leadership Team: I congratulate you on this important appointment and look forward to hearing about your growth in confidence, influence and faith. Together, you will inspire others and leave a lasting legacy for those who follow.
 George Gilbo |
 Annabelle Paull |
 Lukas Muir |
 College Vice Captain |
 Max Ivanoff |
 Social Justice Captain |
 Social Justice Captain |
|
 Olivia Johnson-Pepper |
 Indigenous Captain |
 Chisholm Captain |
 Chisholm Captain |
 Millicent Harpley |
 MacKillop Captain |
 Xavier Captain |
 Xavier Captain |
With respect and encouragement to you.
Mrs Jacqueline Heffernan
Principal
“The Holy Spirit reminds us first and foremost that we are children loved by God – everyone equal in God’s love, and everyone different.” (Pope Francis)