The principal of the Coast’s newest Prep to Year 12 college has been recognised for his dedication to the community.
Notre Dame College foundation principal Dan McShea received the Brisbane Catholic Education Spirit of Catholic Education Award for 2025.
The Bells Creek college opened to students on the first day of term one this year.
The award celebrates the outstanding contributions of passionate educators within Catholic education in Queensland and can include staff, parents and carers, and volunteers.
BCE head of school performance and progress Brett Horton paid tribute to Mr McShea.
“From the moment he took on the role, Dan’s focus has been clear — people first,” he said.
“Whether he is greeting students at the gate, listening to families or bringing locals together to shape the school’s culture, his leadership is grounded in connection and compassion.
“Bells Creek is a new area with many young families that has grown significantly very quickly.
“Families have come from diverse backgrounds and locations, and yet time and time again our college has been described as feeling like home.”
Mr McShea said the award was “humbling”.
“We have a lot of people doing incredible work at Notre Dame College,” he said.
“This award is a great honour and reflects the collective efforts of our college team.
“I am really excited about the work we are doing here at Notre Dame College.
“We are in the Year of Hope. What can be more hope-filled than a brand new school that will be a beacon of hope in our community?”
Head of college Jasmine Brown said the award “couldn’t be more fitting”.
“Dan knows each student and their parents, and is dedicated to ensuring every child at Notre Dame College feels known and loved,” she said.
“This is due to Dan’s unwavering commitment to creating a safe and nurturing place where acceptance, innovation and collaboration thrive.
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“From engaging families well before the college opened to creating relationships with local kindergartens, Dan will do whatever it takes for his community.
“Dan has also initiated weekly playgroup at Notre Dame College for local families and delights its members by reading stories and playing games.”
The college is preparing to begin its stage two works, which will see the construction of a new library, additional classrooms and two more Prep rooms.
By 2034, the college will educate 1800 students and employ 280 staff.
