Get to know: Deputy Principal of Community

Deputy Principal of Community

Mrs Mary-Anne Reynolds has held a Deputy role at Mandurah Catholic College since 2013, with the role being renamed this year.

Brief summary of professional career:

I graduated from Rhodes University in South Africa in 1986 with a Bachelor of Commerce Degree and a Teaching Degree. I started teaching in 1987 and became the Head of Accounting midway through that year. While in South Africa, I taught Accounting, Business Economics and Mathematics and I coached athletics, cross country and water polo. After immigrating to Australia in 2000, I took up a teaching position at Mandurah Catholic College and have been here ever since. I have taught Mathematics, Religion, Commerce and Accounting and Finance. I am currently still teaching Year 12 Accounting and Finance ATAR. The leadership positions I have held at the College are Head of Year 8, Head of Year 11, Head of Year 12, Acting Head of Middle School, Acting Head of Senior School, Deputy Principal of Pastoral Care, Acting Vice Principal and now Deputy Principal of Community.

What are you most looking forward to, in your role this year?

I am looking forward to working more closely with staff and incorporating the experience I have gained over the years looking after the pastoral care of students, into looking after the pastoral care of other members of the community. I am also very excited to be working with the Community Team and mentoring the Dean of Students and the Dean of Campus.

Professional passion, or educational philosophy:

Teaching and caring for others is what makes me flourish. I am passionate about making a difference by helping others be the best that they can be and treat all who I come into contact with, with respect and dignity. For me teaching is a vocation - I wanted to be a teacher since I was very young and there has not been a time where I have not been grateful to be part of this wonderful profession. My philosophy is that you can only learn when you are pastorally happy and safe. By focusing on the pastoral needs of the community and the relationship that one has with members of the community, you can help others learn and be the best that they can be.

What is a fun fact about you?

I have taken part in some dancing and singing shows in my earlier days and love performing even though I am actually rather shy.

Key responsibilities of your Role:

The Deputy Principal of Community is head of the Secondary Community Team, of which key aspects are the Pastoral Care of students, College Calendar, student Wellbeing Program, Serving others and Student Leadership. The Deputy Principal of Community oversees the Ministry Team, in charge of service to others and the faith journey of the students.