Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School Principal Brad Gaynor has been announced Australian Primary School Principal of the Year (Non-Government) at the 2018 Australian Education Awards held in Sydney.

Brad has received national recognition for his exemplary leadership, hard work, innovation and dedication as a primary school principal and as President of the Australian Catholic Primary Principals Association. 

He has been an integral part of Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn for over 28 years, working across multiple schools, starting his teaching career at St Francis of Assisi in Calwell before his first  appointment as Principal at Sacred Heart Pearce in 2006. 

Brad said that the nomination came as a surprise, that the win was very humbling and that he does not see it as recognition for himself, but for all hardworking principals.

“I feel very blessed to work in Catholic Education,” he said.

“It’s a privilege to work in an environment of collegiality and support.”

Director of Catholic Education Ross Fox said that the award is well deserved recognition of Brad's leadership and service as a teacher and school leader in ACT Catholic schools.

“Brad is well known by students, parents and colleagues in Catholic schools in the ACT and across Australia as an accomplished educational leader,” he said.

“Parents and students particularly appreciate his dedication to the learning and wellbeing needs of each child.”

Brad is inspired by the energy and enthusiasm of his students, finds joy in their love for learning and insists that being able to have a laugh with students, parents and staff is fundamental.

“I love when students come to visit or I visit a classroom and the kids are excited to share their learning,” he said.

“It still gives me the same buzz every day and reminds me of why I entered the teaching profession in the first place.”

“I look forward to continuing my association with Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn.”