Celebrating teachers and staff who make more possible

Ryan Catholic College is celebrating World Teachers’ Day today (Friday, 30 October) recognising the dedicated staff who make a lasting difference in the lives of students and the wider College community.

Each year, Ryan brings its World Teachers’ Day celebrations together with its annual Staff Appreciation Day, recognising the people who help shape the College’s close-knit community and support students throughout their learning journey.

As a personal gesture of appreciation, the College’s leadership team has hand-written 306 postcards to thank every staff member for the contribution they make to Ryan. Arriving in staff members’ letterboxes this week, the postcards offer a heartfelt reminder that their work is valued and makes a difference every day.

Ryan Catholic College Principal Candi Dempster said World Teachers’ Day was an important opportunity to recognise the people behind the College’s success.

“Where would our city be without teachers? The talent and dedication within our school communities, guiding young people and helping shape their futures, doesn’t always receive the recognition it deserves.

“At Ryan, World Teachers’ Day is an opportunity to thank our wonderful staff and celebrate the contribution we all make to the life and success of our College. Every staff member plays a part in creating the community we are so proud of, which is why we celebrate together,” Ms Dempster said.

“As Principal, you accompany and walk alongside staff to bring the best out of them to get the job done. I’m so proud of our staff and their dedication to our College. Three of our staff members alone have a combined 94 years of service, which is incredible. Lyall Herlihy has been at the College since 1993, Juan Mendiolea since 1990 and Petrina Davies since 1995.”

For Lyall Herlihy, Teacher and Community and Family Connection Officer, Ryan is more than a workplace.

“Ryan is the most welcoming and accepting place. From the moment I walked into Ryan I was accepted and encouraged,” Mr Herlihy said.

“Ryan has always been about more than just teaching for me. It’s the relationships you build with students, families and colleagues, the memories you make along the way and the feeling of being part of a close-knit, caring community. Those connections are what make coming to work each day so rewarding.”

World Teachers’ Day is celebrated across Australia on Friday, 30 October, providing an opportunity to recognise the meaningful role teachers and education staff play in shaping futures and strengthening communities.

(Image: Names from left) Ryan Catholic College staff Lyall Herlihy, Deputy Principal Nanette Radeck, Principal Candi Dempster and Juan Mendiolea.