Full circle moment: St Mel’s has a new principal

In his most recent job, at the Catholic Education Sandhurst office, he was an education officer in student pastoral wellbeing for St Mel’s, alongside 11 other regional schools, meaning he was often found working at the school.

And before his time there, Mr Hicks was the foundation principal at Shepparton’s St Luke’s Primary School for more than 10 years.

Mr Hicks also has experience teaching in Catholic schools in Benalla, Yarrawonga and Kerang, where he was principal before he joined St Luke’s.

However, for Mr Hicks, St Mel’s is more than just a new job; he was also a student at the school, where he started in Prep.

He is just one of many who have returned to the school, which Mr Hicks said reflected the type of community St Mel’s was.

“It is a testament to the school,” he said.

“Education is a small community in lots of ways.

“Even though we might move and teach in other communities, we still stay in touch with colleagues across other schools and staff coming back after experiences in other parishes and communities because people are seeking to be part of the team here and support the children here.”

Having been a part of the Sandhurst Diocese education system for over 35 years, Mr Hicks said his roles throughout his career had helped shape his journey as an educator.

“It has certainly brought new knowledge and skills and a deeper understanding of education to apply in practice in the setting of a school or school community,” Mr Hicks said.

“St Mel’s has a long, proud tradition of Catholic education in this region and town, so I’m looking forward to joining the school community and working with the children, their families, staff and the parish community to continue that fine tradition and provide a contemporary experience of Catholic education.”