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Meet Stella’s passionate new Principal

Sharyn Quirk has been announced as the new principal at Manly’s Stella Maris College – and just like anyone starting a new year at a new school, she is excited about what lays ahead.

This includes an Open Evening at Stella on Wednesday, 19 March from 4pm to 7.30pm, where students, prospective students and parents can meet the staff, explore the campus and discover what makes Stella the first choice for all-girls’ education on the Northern Beaches.

Mrs Quirk, who for the past six years was Principal at Brigidine College in Randwick, was appointed to replace retiring Principal Elizabeth Carnegie following a rigorous recruitment process.

“I am excited for Day One at Stella and eager to meet the students, to witness the energy and enthusiasm they bring to the College,” she says, “and to be part of a community where everyone – teachers, staff, students and families – feels connected to something truly extraordinary.

“My focus will be on engaging with students, staff, and parents, both in and out of the classroom, fostering meaningful connections and setting the tone for a collaborative and inspiring journey ahead.”

Senior students Destiny, School Captain Roisin and Vice Captain Violet welcome Mrs Quirk to Stella.

Mrs Quirk, who studied at the NSW Conservatorium of Music and Australian Catholic University, has been a highly-regarded educator for more than 30 years with experience in both single sex and co-ed settings on a professional journey that has taken her to prominent institutions such as St Clare’s College (ACT), St Mary McKillop College (ACT), Santa Sabina College (NSW) and Xavier College (VIC). She holds a Master of Religious Education and a Bachelor of Music Education

“These diverse experiences have given me a deeper understanding of the unique benefits of single-sex education for girls,” she says.

“I have seen firsthand how it fosters an environment where young women can flourish without the pressures of gender stereotypes, empowering them to explore their full potential and take on leadership roles with confidence.”

Mrs Quirk says she has been inspired by the people she has worked with, the students she has taught and the experiences that have shaped her own journey in learning.

“A pivotal moment in my career was my work in comparative analysis between the USA and Australian educational systems which broadened by understanding of the global landscapes of learning. However, what has truly sustained me is my unwavering passion for leadership, my love of reading on education, and my commitment to always asking how we can be better for the students we serve.

“Education is about more than just teaching content; its about opening doors to limitless possibilities for young people. This belief has kept me driven, reminding me every day of the impact we, as educators, have in shaping not just minds, but futures.”

Mrs Quirk is welcomed by senior students (l-r) Audrey, Tiffany and Grace.

Mrs Quirk says one of the most important lessons she has learned in her career is “the profound importance of building trust through empathy, collaboration, and active listening.”

This deep desire for harmony in life and learning is no doubt due in no small part to her passion for music – she plays piano, flute and violin, and is a classically trained vocalist.

“Music has always been a profound part of my life,” she says. “One unforgettable experience was performing in the Sydney Festival NSW High Schools production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Mikado. Rehearsing for weeks with passionate students from across NSW was exhilarating. Then stepping onto the stages of the iconic Opera House and the NSW State Conservatorium of Music brought it all to life. It was an extraordinary moment where my love for music and performing truly ignited and the magic of those stages stays with me to this day;”

Stella Maris was founded in 1931 by the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, and Mrs Quirk’s former school, Brigidine College was founded in 1901 by the Brigidine Sisters,

History, she says, plays an important part in a good education.

 “Understanding the history of the community you belong to offers a powerful foundation, inspiring you with the strength to achieve great things. The remarkable journeys of the Good Samaritans and the Brigidine Sisters, marked by their compassion, resilience and gentleness, serve as a guiding light for students today.”

“I am very much looking forward to immersing myself in the vibrant community of Stella Maris and championing the ongoing pursuit of excellence in all-girls’ education. It is my aim to continue to foster a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.”

Save the Date: Open Evening

Experience the Stella Maris difference fist hand and meet the new principal and staff at the Open Evening on Wednesday, 19th March from 4pm to 7.30pm.

To register click here.

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