The Religious Education Professional Learning Day on February 17 provided focused professional learning for our R.E teachers, strengthening both pedagogical practice and faith leadership. The day commenced in our Chapel with an experience of guided prayer led by our Liturgy, Prayer and Retreat Leader Paul Skippen. This was followed by a session aimed at deepening teachers’ understanding of how to effectively lead prayer through intentional use of space, eco‑spirituality, and shared reflection. This supported teachers to develop greater confidence in facilitating meaningful prayer experiences within classrooms.

We then then engaged with the story and legacy of St Brigid, led by R.E Learning Leader Liz Sullivan, exploring her relevance to contemporary issues of justice, hospitality, leadership, and care for creation. Drawing on articles on St Brigid’s life and impact, shared discussion and reflection, staff made explicit connections between St Brigid’s story and the lived experiences of students and considered practical ways to embed her legacy within units.

The latter part of our collaboration focused on departmental priorities, including justice as an ongoing focus, and the ethical integration of AI to support student learning. We revisited our commitment to eco‑spirituality and considered best practice around this, as well as exploring the new Spirituality of Responsibility units for year 9 and 10 students connected to our community works Saltbush and Wellsprings for Women. These units are a part of our New Metrics work in partnership with University of Melbourne and offer students the opportunity to further develop their agency and active citizenship. They also enliven our Living Justice Living Peace charter, positioning students as young people who listen, walk in solidarity, seek change and work to heal creation.

Staff were appreciative of the opportunity to learn and collaborate together, ultimately with the purpose of providing our students with meaningful faith filled experiences in their Religious Education learning program.