The preparation of Catholic Convention has given the NZCEO much focus over the last month. Registrations are higher than in previous years at this time, and we can see that people are looking forward to being stimulated and challenged by the speakers and presenters in programme. We strongly encourage any schools that have not yet registered to do so before the early-bird cut off on the 9th of May. NZCEO has listened to the advice from New Zealand Catholic Primary Principals who asked us to focus the programme on our catechesis rather than having presentations from other agencies which operate in the wider state provision of education but which are not focused on building Special Character.

This week we celebrated the launch of Sr Brother Pat Lynch’s book A Life in Education in New Zealand’s Integrated Schools 1976- 2016. Pat’s book launch in the Grand Hall of Parliament showed how appropriate the content of his book is as a commentary about our journey of integration to this point. The event was sponsored by the Right Honourable Trevor Mallard, Speaker of the House and previously a Minister of Education. Members from all political parties were present to support Pat. This miscellany of events and reflections of the evolution of Catholic Integrated Schools is a good read. It grounds us in our past and challenges us to protect that which is important to our future. Copies of the book will be available at the Convention.

Finally, I want to encourage you to provide time within your school timetables for students, teachers and parents to begin to share what they want to see evolve from the review of Tomorrow’s Schools. The two hui/Summit events begin this month in Christchurch and Auckland but they are only the beginning of a process that has the opportunity to address a number of systemic issues which frustrate our ability to deliver the best education to children while noting that which is working and which needs to be retained to preserve what is valued and successful at present. I would encourage you to be part of the conversation. It has taken us nearly 30 years to have the courage to ask if Tomorrow’s Schools works for children. We can’t afford to be silent on the aspirations we have for the future.

Ngā mihi

Paul Ferris

Chief Executive Officer