From teaching orphans as a Sister of Mercy to running her own pre-school in Grafton to heading a Primary school with more than 150 students, recently retired teacher and Principal Colleen Adams admits she faced numerous challenges during her 35-year career.

But Mrs Adams says she was glad to put in the service at Sydney's Catholic education system. She retired as Principal of St Patrick's Primary School in Summer Hill last term and was feted with a special farewell.

She has had numerous roles in education, having taught at a number of regional schools including a junior secondary school before joining the Catholic education system as a Religious Education Co-ordinator in 1988.

"I have loved being in the Sydney Catholic school system ever since," she said.

 "There have been some challenging times, like adapting to a changing and more demanding society.

"Parental expectations and increasing demands and regulations imposed on teachers from governments have presented teachers with higher workloads, which often distract you from giving the attention you want to be able to give to the students," she said.

 "But my time as Principal has been very rewarding, stimulating, challenging and fulfilling, both a personal and professional level."

She has learned a lot during her career. "I've learned that fundamental to teaching is to develop the potential of all children to learn in their own way. I've learned that teaching is not only a career, but a vocation!

"Knowing that I tried to develop the individual talents of all my students is my biggest achievement," she added.

Now retired, Mrs Adams hopes to travel and spend more time with her grandchildren; but "occasional visits to St Patrick's and contact with the Catholic school system on a casual basis" will remain part of her schedule.

"I won't be able to keep from the children and the community for too long!" she said.

"I feel very blessed to have been a part of St Patrick's. It's a wonderful parish and school community that works really well together. I'll miss Fr Gerry, the parish priest, the staff, parents and students the most! They are the reason why I stayed at St Patrick's for so long."

At the farewell, a number of students also expressed how they were going to miss their Principal.

In a book of personal letters the school made for her as a farewell gift, Vincent Ines from Year 6 wrote: "Mrs Adams, you have taught me to make right choices and to respect my fellow students and classmates. I will take these talents with me when I start high school next year. I will miss you!"
For Further Information
Bernadette Zebec, Catholic Education Office, Leichhardt Tel: 9568 8223