![Dr Debra Sayce surrounded by children](https://do8h0zazxovw4.cloudfront.net/2022/11/CHRIST-THE-KING-CPS_2022_PhotographyByMattBiocich-66_webcropped.jpg)
Catholic Education WA Executive Director, Dr Debra Sayce was honoured with the ACEL Pre-eminent Educational Leader Award at the ACEL WA 2022 Awards.
Speaking at the event, Dr Sayce said she is deeply humbled and honoured to receive this award.
“However, in
receiving the award, I receive it on behalf of the 158 Catholic school
principals, their leadership team and Catholic education office personnel,” Dr
Sayce said.
“I recognise this award is truly about a flourishing
Catholic education system where our students are provided with a quality
faith-based education, enabling them to grow in their confidence, creativity, curiosity,
and contribution – it is our schools – the leaders and staff who are at the
coal face. They make a difference in a young person’s life.”
“I also want to say that Catholic education doesn’t operate in a vacuum. In my five years in this role, I have had excellent engagement, support, problem-solving and collaboration with the DoE, AISWA, and the school curriculum authority – needless to say, I have very strong working relationships with the Director General of Education, Executive Director of AISWA and SCSA Executive Director.”
“I feel at times that I am like a conductor of a 158-piece orchestra – ensuring that each instrument or a school is well rehearsed, follow the musical notes as written, harmonising with other instruments and therefore being in tune with itself and others and creating the best music imaginable – thus enabling the audience, our students to have an excellent experience.’