A New Beginning:

"Grant us the wisdom to navigate challenges, the strength to persevere, and the compassion to support one another. Together, may we create an environment where learning flourishes and bonds strengthen. Amen."

Dear St Joseph’s Catholic School Community,

It is with great joy and a deep sense of purpose that I introduce myself as the Acting Principal of St Joseph’s Catholic School, Atherton. I am honoured to serve this vibrant and faith-filled community and look forward to walking alongside you in our shared mission of nurturing the hearts, minds, and spirits of our students.

With over forty-four years of experience in both State and Catholic education, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a steadfast commitment to the values that define Catholic schooling. My journey as an educator and leader has been shaped by a deep belief in the dignity of every child and the transformative power of education grounded in faith, compassion, and excellence.

Teaching is more than a profession to me—it is a calling and a way of life. What keeps me engaged is the profound belief that education can transform lives. Books such as What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry, and The Myth of Normal by Dr. Gabor Maté, have deepened my understanding of the importance of creating safe, nurturing environments where students and staff can heal, grow, and thrive. I am passionate about building strong, trusting relationships that support resilience and well-being—foundations that I believe are essential for meaningful learning.

Throughout my career, I have been guided by the principles of Catholic social teaching and the mission of the Church. I believe, as expressed in Educating to Intercultural Dialogue in Catholic Schools, that our schools are called to be places of encounter—where the presence of Christ is made visible through our relationships, our learning, and our service to others. This belief has been the cornerstone of my leadership.

In my previous role as Principal of St Teresa’s Catholic School, and in leadership positions across the Diocese of Cairns, I have worked to foster inclusive, high-performing school cultures where students thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. I have led with a focus on collaboration, strategic planning, and professional growth, always striving to model the compassion and integrity we seek to instill in our students.

Inspiring teachers to be the best they can be is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role. I believe in creating an environment where educators feel valued, supported, and empowered. Drawing on insights from Discipline Without Damage by Dr. Vanessa Lapointe, I encourage teachers to look beyond surface behaviours and respond with empathy and understanding. I also draw from Dr. William Glasser’s Choice Theory, which emphasizes internal motivation and personal responsibility. By fostering a culture of trust, reflection, and professional autonomy, I help teachers grow in confidence and capability—ultimately enriching the learning experience for every child.

In this role, I see myself making a meaningful difference by nurturing a culture of holistic well-being and continuous growth. I am committed to addressing the root causes of challenges and promoting a school environment where both students and staff feel safe, connected, and inspired. Through the integration of research-informed practices and Gospel values, I aim to lead a school community that is not only academically strong but also emotionally and spiritually resilient.

Beyond my professional life, I am a husband, father of three, and proud grandfather of two. My family is my greatest blessing and a constant source of inspiration. I am also a passionate reader, particularly drawn to literature on education, human development, and psychology—fields that continually inform and enrich my practice as a leader and lifelong learner.

As I begin this new chapter with you, I do so with humility, enthusiasm, and a deep respect for the traditions and aspirations of St Joseph’s. I am committed to building strong, trusting relationships with students, staff, families, and the wider community. Together, we will continue to nurture a school environment where every child is known, valued, and supported to reach their full potential.

Thank you for the warm welcome I have already received. I look forward to meeting many of you in the coming weeks and to working together to ensure that St Joseph’s remains a place of faith, learning, and love.

Warm regards,
Michael Aitken
Acting Principal
St Joseph’s Catholic School, Atherton