Donna Bryce: The foundation principal of St Catherine of Siena.
I would like to introduce myself to our growing learning community.
In July 2019 I moved from St Aloysius Primary School in Ballarat to St Catherine of Siena School. At St Aloysius I was the Deputy Principal and known for being innovative in my approach to learning and teaching with a strong emphasis on building positive relationships between staff, families and students. I like to lead by example and empower those around me to embrace educational opportunities.
I grew up on a cereal and sheep farm in the Wimmera, near St Arnaud. My dad was passionate about following your dreams and my mum believed in the empowerment of education and encouraged all six of her children into tertiary studies. I have attempted to continue these commitments and passions for learning throughout my career, completing a range of post-graduate qualifications including a Master of Instructional Leadership at the University of Melbourne and an intensive course at the University of Leuven in Belgium studying Enhancing Catholic School Identity. I strongly believe in the identity and mission of Catholic schools engaging learners intellectually, ethically and spiritually grounded in Catholic Social Teachings.
Through my years of experience in a range of education roles, I have demonstrated a commitment to ensure every child feels safe, inspired and confident to learn.
Since joining the St Catherine of Siena learning community, together with our staff team, we have been developing a caring and collaborative school community where each individual is engaged in a positive, nurturing educational experience. As principal, I encourage strong and positive relationships within a thriving Catholic school community. We have been overwhelmed with the wonderful community support for our school and we look forward to learning and growing our learning community together within Armstrong Creek and the Nazareth Parish.
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Donna Bryce – Foundation Principal
“I am a passionate lifelong learner, who loves healthy living, cooking, reading, exercising, and spending time with family and friends. I enjoy morning runs, walks or swims at the beach or at our farm. I enjoy experiencing the sunrise or sunset while out walking with my husband and our two dogs.
I have been married for over 30 years and have three adult children, two sons and one daughter. I love baking up a storm of my children’s favourite treats when they are coming home for a visit. We have a small farm where we have a couple of alpacas, several chooks, two dogs and 100 or so sheep. We strive to live sustainably, growing much of our own food.”