Tricks of the trade
Schools
Archbishop Patrick O’Regan picked up a few handy trade tips during a visit to St Patrick’s Technical College earlier this month.
Presiding over a special Year 10 liturgy at the Edinburgh North school, the Archbishop found time to meet with students in their trade classes and hear about what they are learning.
Addressing the assembly, Archbishop O’Regan spoke of the “gifts and talents” of each student, challenging them to always use these gifts in the service of others and be brave like the college patron, St Patrick.
Vice captains of the college, Kyla Dellar and Jy Dittmar, also spoke of the unique offerings at the technical school and how they align with the teachings of the Church.
“We all come to St Pat’s with some idea about our future,” they said.
“We come to St Pat’s to discover and develop those skills and talents we all have. We are keen to enter the world of work. In time, we all have dreams of becoming leaders in our trade areas and in doing this helping to build ‘the world that God desires’.
“Pope Francis has written especially to young people about the world of work. In 2019, he wrote: ‘Work defines and influences young adults’ identity and self-concept and is a prime place where friendships and other relationships develop. Work allows young adults to meet their practical needs but even more importantly to seek meaning and fulfilment of their dreams and visions’.
“The Church has also said there is a great dignity in working. It is good to use our talents and skills to produce things, to fix things, and to help others. The Church has also said that all workers deserve fair pay and working conditions. When we enter the world of work, we must ensure that all workers enjoy these rights.”
Also attending the June 7 assembly were Catholic Education SA director Dr Neil McGoran and St Patrick’s Board member and old scholar Rhys Ferrari (Class of 2016).
Mr Ferrari addressed the gathering, outlining his journey of study at the technical college and his current role as an electronics technician with BAE Systems Australia, encouraging students to find their “inspiration and passion”.
“St Pat’s has links to industry which gives you lots of opportunities that are not available to a lot of other students your age who attend mainstream schools. St Pat’s gets you work ready, so that you are attractive to potential employers,” he said.
“There are lots of things that St Pat’s will give you but what they can’t give you is motivation, commitment, dedication and focus.
“Those are the gifts you give yourself, to be successful.”
Archbishop O’Regan with Year 10 Construction students from left, Wade, Hayden and Nathan.
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