Now in its third year, the program is for teachers in Catholic schools who see that the role of assistant principal, Religious Identity and Mission (APRIM) is possibly one they would like to pursue in the next 1-5 years.

Alison Gore, senior education adviser, Formation, said that school leaders have been encouraged to identify staff who could benefit from participating in the program.

“Some people self-identify, they can see that a position as APRIM is a logical step for them, their life story and faith lead them to this and they are having conversations with their school leaders about next steps,” she said.

“Other participants are tapped on the shoulder to help them recognise the gifts that they are displaying in the school in the Catholic identity and mission area.

“At CESA we believe that everyone has a role to play in the Catholic identity of our schools, but that some people are called to formal religious leadership, and we want to support them on this journey.

The Growing Faith Leaders Program focuses on discernment, prayer and sharing stories with other religious leaders in CESA.

“In hearing other people’s stories participants realise that their own life stories are similar and that they do have the skills and knowledge to succeed in these leadership positions,” Alison said.

Throughout the program participants receive support from the APRIM in their own school. They are also matched to an APRIM in another school to shadow them for a day so that they get to see the role in a different setting from their own school.

The participants run an inquiry project in their own school to grow their existing leadership and gain confidence. As part of the program, they are also made aware of the academic requirements for leadership in a Catholic school to complete a relevant master’s degree with significant theology units.

Catholic school educators wanting to find out more can email Alison.Gore@cesa.catholic.edu.au