An experienced leader in education who wants to foster “an environment of trust, loyalty and forgiveness” has filled a key role at the Sunshine Coast’s newest school.
Jasmine Brown has been announced as the foundation head of college at Notre Dame College Bells Creek.
Ms Brown previously served as the assistant principal for middle years at Assisi Catholic College Upper Coomera and curriculum leader at Trinity College Beenleigh. Her leadership background also includes roles as assistant principal learning and teaching, student wellbeing leader and pastoral care leader.
She said was eager to welcome foundation students, from Prep to Year 3 and Year 7, as Notre Dame College prepares to open its doors in January.
“I am deeply honoured to be part of the inception of Notre Dame College,” she said.
“This opportunity allows us to create a unique and vibrant community from the ground up, deeply rooted in Marist values and a commitment to academic excellence.”
She outlined her vision for the college.
“I want to ensure a strong family community where faith is lived daily and every student is inspired to achieve their highest potential,” she said.
“I believe in leading by example and being present in the classroom, fostering an environment of trust, loyalty, and forgiveness.
“Like this year’s Catholic Education Week theme, ‘Communities of Faith, Hope and Love’, I envision Notre Dame College as a place where these values are not just taught but lived out passionately each day.”
Jasmine said her new role was not just a job.
“It’s a calling,” she said.
“I was drawn to Notre Dame College because of principal Dan McShea.
“Dan and I share a common commitment to leading in faith.
“His faith is very real, and we both lead with a love for our students and a passion for our work.
“I was also drawn to the Marist Charism, which I know can make a real difference in the lives of my students.
“I have taught in the Marist Charism for over 15 years and currently serve as a director of the Marist Association of St Marcellin Champagnat Limited, so this appointment is close to my heart.
“At the core of the Marist Charism lies Mary. It’s about embracing a sense of duty, much like Mary would have done – doing what’s right for the community and going the extra mile.
“As the foundation head of college, I deeply appreciate these values rooted in saying ‘yes’ to our mission, embodying a love for our work, embracing simplicity, fostering presence, nurturing a family spirit, and embodying servant leadership.”
Do you have an opinion to share? Submit a Letter to the Editor at Sunshine Coast News via news@sunshinecoastnews.com.au. You must include your name and suburb.
Ms Brown said that participating in the Women Breakthrough to Principalship program in 2021 reinforced her belief that her career journey is about finding the right opportunity and following her heart.
“The program underscored that my journey wasn’t simply a race to become a Principal, it was about following my heart,” she said.
“I felt this role resonated deeply with my values and aspirations.
“It was a culmination of years of dedication and passion in education, where I could truly make a meaningful impact, especially in a new school environment where I have the opportunity to shape its future from the ground up.”
Ms Brown has also become a finalist for The Archbishop’s Award for Leadership and was she was also nominated for Brisbane’s esteemed Spirit of Catholic Education Award 2024.
With construction in full swing, Notre Dame College is poised to become an educational institution accommodating up to 1800 students, employing 280 staff by 2030.
Help keep independent and fair Sunshine Coast news coming by subscribing to our FREE daily news feed. All it requires is your name and email at the bottom of this article.
