Commitment to Catholic education recognised

Left to right: Pina Marciano, Maria Kirkwood, Michelle Hinds, Emma Pocock and Bishop Patrick O''Regan at the awards ceremony.

Two teachers and a student from Cranbourne’s Catholic schools received awards at the annual Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Leadership Dinner in Traralgon on Friday.

Recent graduate of St Peter’s College in Cranbourne, Emma Pocock, was awarded The Elizabeth Hunt Scholarship in recognition of her dedication to her studies and commitment to her faith. Ms Pocock will receive a scholarship of $1,500 per year for the four years of her teaching degree at Australian Catholic University.

Ms Pocock said that she’s eager to embark on her next learning journey and is thankful for the guidance and support she has received from St Peter’s College and Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Ltd (DOSCEL).

“I feel deeply honoured to have received the Elizabeth Hunt Scholarship. It will open many opportunities for me to continue to witness my faith and contribute to Catholic education through the profession of teaching” she said.

Ms Pina Marciano from St Peter’s College was one of two winners of the Daniel Ahern Bursary, which provides financial support to non-teaching school staff who wish to further their education and become qualified teachers.

Mrs Michelle Hinds from St Agatha’s Primary School was commended for 26 years of service to Catholic education.

A further eight staff members from schools across the Diocese of Sale also received awards.

Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Ms Maria Kirkwood, congratulated the Cranbourne-based award recipients.

“The staff and students recognised at this year’s awards reflect the aspirations of our Catholic communities to live our faith in service to others and to spread the Christian message of hope in the world. We are very proud of their commitment, achievements, and service,” she said.

DOSCEL’s Leadership Dinner marked the beginning of Catholic Education Week in the Diocese of Sale, which runs from May 24 to 31.