Teachers provide faith, hope and love Dr Ed Simons, of Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools says

Schools play an important role in a world with a growing sense of uncertainty. Dr Ed Simons explains why and how teachers can change everything forever.

In a world marked by a growing sense of disharmony and division, it’s no secret that many young people are grappling with feelings of unhappiness and uncertainty about the future.

The latest World Happiness Report 2024 confirms this concerning trend, revealing that young people in Australia today are “the least happy age group” compared to older generations, despite being among the happiest in 2010.

As a former teacher, principal, and current parent of three young children, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and pressures our young people face today.

Top of mind are key issues including the impacts of social media, cyber bullying, disrupted families and dealing with the aftermath of a global pandemic here in the world’s most locked down city.

I firmly believe that our schools play a critical role in reversing this trend.

Dr Ed Simons, executive director of Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools, believes schools can reverse the disharmony affecting children today.

At the heart of all our schools are the teachers who enable vibrant centres of learning and growth – forming the head, heart and hands of our young people.

One of the fundamental aspects of Catholic school life is the creation of a supportive and inclusive environment underpinned by our virtues of faith, hope and love.

Faith, in this context, encompasses trust, conviction and purpose. Hope drives ambition and resilience whilst love and compassion are essential for unity and empathy.

In a divided world, these are not merely idealistic notions, but practical imperatives.

Celebrating teachers is not just about appreciating their hard work and dedication but about acknowledging the profound impact they have on shaping the lives of our young people, from kindergarten through to graduation.

When teachers feel valued and recognised for their efforts, it reinforces their sense of purpose and dedication to their profession.

Sense of faith and hope: Teacher Louise Donnelly at Sacred Heart Parish School, in Sandringham. Picture: Ian Currie

It is our collective responsibility to provide them with the support they need to continue their invaluable contributions to society. By doing so, our schools will continue to be strong and caring communities providing an everlasting sense of faith, hope and love for our children to draw on.

To echo the words of Harper from Grade 3 at Sacred Heart Primary School, “It’s because of you that we feel inspired to be the best we can be.”

We give our sincere thanks to all teachers who make this feeling a reality.

* Dr Edward Simons is the Executive Director of Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools, a former teacher, principal and current parent of three young children.

Originally published as Teachers provide faith, hope and love Dr Ed Simons, of Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools says