Our latest Principal Profile stars Dr Sean Mangan, principal of St Andrew’s Catholic College, a co-education P-12 college nestled in the foothills of Redlynch Valley. Dr Sean is a committed and experienced Catholic educator with more than 25 years’ experience teaching and leading in P-12 settings.
What do you hope to achieve in your role as principal?
To continue to develop a thriving learning community of excellence involving students, teachers and parents. Being on a journey of continuous improvement that aims for personal growth and satisfaction in all areas including faith. We are fortunate to be able to offer a wide range of learning experiences in our curriculum ranging from traditional academic to VET opportunities and varied QCE pathways.
What makes you most proud to be the leader of your school community?
To work with extremely talented and experienced leaders, teachers, school support officers and administration staff, who all contribute to students achieving their full potential. Observing teachers, students and parents adapting quickly to the changing times of COVID-19 was inspiring to see. I am proud that the college aims to live by what Jesus said: “I have come that you may have life in all its fullness” from John 10:10.
What makes a great teacher?
A great teacher has a passion for their subject and an ability to engage their learners through a variety of formats. They are able to instil a love of learning and enthusiasm for their subject and imbues them with a vision that goes beyond school life. All great teachers strive to develop positive working relationships with their students and parents. Like a builder or tradesperson, teachers need a diverse range of tools and strategies to engage all learners and complete their work. A great teacher lingers in the memory of their students long after they have left the school as an influential mentor.
How did your education shape you to be the person you are today?
I recall many of my teachers where positive role models and influences in shaping my thoughts on wanting to become a teacher. Growing up, my family, the church and my schooling provided a strong sense of direction, work ethic and commitment to social justice. Working across seven large Prep or reception (including Early Learning) – Year 12 colleges across Australia has meant I have been exposed to a variety of different leaders and mentors.
What motto, affirmation or prayer do you live by?
I pray the traditional prayers of the church at the beginning of each day and at the end of each day to thank God for the experiences and lessons presented to me each day. This shapes my vision of each person made in the image of God.
What is the highlight of your career so far as principal?
Seeing St Andrew’s continuing to flourish and being internationally recognised by the Global Forum for Education Learning (GFEL) as one of their top 50 organisations in education in the world. St Andrew’s was recognised at their inaugural conference in Dubai in December, 2019. Two of the criteria for the award was ‘Spirit of Innovation’ and ‘Future Readiness’, which I have witnessed with the college being well established with its digital learning environment, AndIE and its response to remote learning.
What do you think are the most important values a principal should uphold?
Honesty, integrity and developing positive relationships with all members of our community and those beyond the college. I value family, my faith, being active, staying healthy, and being immersed in life-long learning and study.
Find out more about St Andrew’s Catholic College, Redlynch.
