By Mitchell Clarke
After a 30-year career spanning several states, the principal of St Patrick’s Primary School in Pakenham will retire at the end of the school year.
Mr Michael O’Brien has served the Catholic education community for three decades, working as a respected principal of a number of primary and secondary schools in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.
“In my 15 years at St Patrick’s, I’ve worked to ensure each child has a sense of self-worth that will help them to reach their full potential,” he said.
Mr O’Brien said he was pleased with his replacement, stating he couldn’t think of a “better person” to lead the school and its community into the future.
His successor is Mr Simon Dell’Oro, who is currently the principal of Trinity Catholic Primary School in Narre Warren South.
Set to commence his new role at the start of the schooling year 2020, Mr Dell’Oro said he was attracted to St Patrick’s because of the strong learning agenda and its welcoming atmosphere.
“I am looking forward to commencing my appointment at St Patrick’s in 2020,” he said.
“We will continue to place improved learning outcomes and the development of a vibrant Catholic community at the heart of everything that we do.”
Diocese of Sale director Maria Kirkwood thanked Mr O’Brien for his service and is confident Mr Dell’Oro will uphold the school’s mission of promoting educational excellence.
“Simon is a committed member of our Catholic education community and shares the belief that our students should have access to an education that fosters the highest quality opportunities and outcomes for all students,” Ms Kirkwood said.
