In a significant step for the Sunshine Coast’s newest College, Notre Dame College Bells Creek, Jasmine Brown has been announced as the Foundation Head of College, commencing Semester 2.
Jasmine Brown brings a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to educational excellence.
Previously serving as the Assistant Principal for Middle Years at Assisi Catholic College Upper Coomera and Curriculum Leader at Trinity College Beenleigh, her extensive leadership background also includes roles as Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching, Student Wellbeing Leader, and Pastoral Care Leader.
Jasmine said as Notre Dame College prepares to open its doors in January 2025, she is eager to welcome her foundation students, spanning from Prep to Year 3 and Year 7.
"I am deeply honoured to be part of the inception of Notre Dame College,” she said.
“This opportunity allows us to create a unique and vibrant community from the ground up, deeply rooted in Marist values and a commitment to academic excellence.”
Jasmine adds her vision for Notre Dame College is clear this Catholic Education Week (21 to 27 July).
“I want to ensure a strong family community where faith is lived daily and every student is inspired to achieve their highest potential,” she said.
“I believe in leading by example and being present in the classroom, fostering an environment of trust, loyalty, and forgiveness.
“Like this year’s Catholic Education Week theme, ‘Communities of Faith, Hope and Love,’ I envision Notre Dame College as a place where these values are not just taught but lived out passionately each day.”
Jasmine said her new role is not just a job, “it's a calling”.
“I was drawn to Notre Dame College because of Principal Dan McShea. Dan and I share a common commitment to leading in faith.
“His faith is very real, and we both lead with a love for our students and a passion for our work.
“I was also drawn to the Marist Charism which I know can make a real difference in the lives of my students.
"I have taught in the Marist Charism for over 15 years and currently serve as a Director of the Marist Association of St Marcellin Champagnat Limited, so this appointment is close to my heart.
“At the core of the Marist Charism lies Mary. It's about embracing a sense of duty, much like Mary would have done—doing what's right for the community and going the extra mile.
“As the Foundation Head of College, I deeply appreciate these values rooted in saying 'yes' to our mission, embodying a love for our work, embracing simplicity, fostering presence, nurturing a family spirit, and embodying servant leadership.”
Jasmine mentioned that participating in the Women Breakthrough to Principalship program in 2021 reinforced her belief that her career journey is about finding the right opportunity and following her heart.
“The program underscored that my journey wasn’t simply a race to become a Principal, it was about following my heart,” she said.
“I felt this role resonated deeply with my values and aspirations.
“It was a culmination of years of dedication and passion in education, where I could truly make a meaningful impact, especially in a new school environment where I have the opportunity to shape its future from the ground up.”
Building on Jasmine’s recent accomplishments, she has also become a finalist for The Archbishop's Award for Leadership and was also nominated for Brisbane’s esteemed Spirit of Catholic Education Award 2024.
With construction in full swing, Notre Dame College is poised to become an educational institution accommodating up to 1800 students and employing 280 staff by 2030.
About Catholic Education Week:
Celebrated annually in Week 3 of Term 3 (21-27 July), Catholic Education Week is an opportunity for all 312 Catholic schools in Queensland to celebrate and promote their distinctive mission and ethos.
Catholic education strives to make a difference in the lives of those in our schools and the wider community by challenging young people to live out the message of Jesus and to reach their full potential as compassionate, contributing, life-giving members of society.
About BCE’s Women in Leadership program:
BCE’s Women in Leadership program has recently been reimagined and extends on the successful Women Breakthrough to Principalship Program.
The new program was adapted to include women in leadership roles across the organisation, not just those with the aim of leading a school.
The Women in Leadership program is designed to enable exponential change and empower aspiring BCE female leaders through interactive workshops, thought-provoking discussions, prayer, and reflection.