Family Mass at St Joseph’s College Hunters Hill has proven to be a highlight for Mr Patrick Lowe, who commenced as Director of Students in January 2025.
WhichSchool?: What are the top three highlights you’ve experienced as a teacher at the school?
Mr Lowe: Being new to the College, the willingness of all staff to ensure you feel supported is impactful; the variety of community events at Joeys wholeheartedly embody the spirit of companionship that underpins what the College stands for; the Family Mass at the beginning of the year was a touching display of community and reverence.
WS: What makes the school different from other schools?
Mr Lowe: The way in which the College sincerely embraces its role in the relationship between school, student and family. There is a deep understanding of the potential for each child to flourish when they know and experience a united sense of support, guidance and care.
WS: Why is the school a great place to teach?
Mr Lowe: The teaching environment at Joeys is one in which our teachers constantly seek new ways to bring learning to life. This passion has attracted students and families who similarly strive for excellence and approach learning in inventive ways.
WS: What are some of the challenges faced by teachers in the primary/secondary sector?
Mr Lowe: In the secondary sector it has been challenging to ensure that learners graduate with an inquisitive, questioning mind, one which is not enamoured with one single source of information.
WS: Tell us about your approach or philosophy to teaching?
Mr Lowe: Each student I teach deserves for me to be as thoroughly prepared as possible for every lesson, every interaction. Similarly, I strive to know each person in my class well, ensuring they are seen.
WS: Did you have a teacher that inspired you? Tell us about them, and how they inspired you.
Mr Lowe: More than one specific teacher, I look back on myself as a student and realise how great an influence all my teachers had over me. As a teacher, I remind myself of this to ensure I am a role model of a high standard and calibre, leaving a positive and lasting impression.
To learn more about St Joseph’s College Hunters Hill, visit https://www.joeys.org/
More reading: Deputy Headmaster Scott Donohoe shares what makes ‘Joeys’ a unique school
