Catherine Allen

Background

About Catherine Allen

I have been immersed in Girls' Education for more than 25 years. Challenges exist. Some to do with education, some to do with society and its demands. Despite these challenges, I love it. The majority of our youth have hopes, dreams and ideals to make our world great. The world makes efforts to attain equality, yet still this battle continues. The seemingly relentless judgement and superficial comparison forced upon our youth via media and some social norms is juxtaposed with the reality of formative years and development. Pedagogical developments and curriculum demands present myriad opportunities to nurture a positive future. I aim to offer opportunities that will shatter the glass ceilings, and promote balanced academic and personal development, with both words and action. Mental Health concerns and issues are growing. I hope to invite authentic social and emotional learning within the curriculum learning and to invite learning for growth, not solely for a good mark and ATAR. I hope to ignite a genuine love of learning as a transformational opportunity for self and society. I also have the wonderful opportunity to work as a Board Director at Iona College, since late 2015. This has afforded me insight into the discussions, planning and management of a large Boys’ school, including 2 rounds of strategic planning and a Master plan, with an impressive fist stage completed in 2021. I also hold the position of Chair of their Mission Committee.