Principal's Message

At St Brendan-Shaw College, we challenge our students to become the best version of themselves through Faith and Deed. While we are proud of our record of academic success, we believe that no student is defined solely by their ATAR or TCE score. In an ever-changing world, our role as educators is to ensure every student has a pathway to success. Our broad offering includes vocational education and training (VET) opportunities, supporting a range of learning styles and future goals.

We have high expectations of both staff and students. Our College is actively improving its approach to learning through our Insight into Learning program, which is based on Barak Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction. This evidence-based model enhances student outcomes, and we are committed to its successful implementation across the school.

As a Catholic school, we nurture the spiritual dimension innate in every person. We also offer a wide range of extracurricular activities that support the development of both mind and body. These opportunities foster a strong sense of belonging and allow students to shine in their own unique ways.

Our uniform is a visible expression of College pride, and we expect all students to wear it well and with respect. It’s one of many ways we live out our values each day.

Community is central to who we are. We believe in the importance of respect—for self, for others, and for the environment—and we strive to embody a generosity of spirit in all we do.

Supporting student wellbeing is more important than ever. By delivering high-quality, targeted learning experiences, we help our students develop a positive sense of self and confidence in their abilities.

We welcome families to be part of our College journey and encourage strong partnerships between home and school.

I am available to parents and the wider community and can be reached by calling the College and contacting my Executive Assistant, Mrs Iola Turner via email at principalsea@sbsc.tas.edu.au.      

Mr Stuart Ralph
Principal

Meet the Principal

Mr Stuart Ralph was appointed as Principal of the College in 2023. Prior to taking the appointment, he was the Deputy Principal at St Patrick's College in Launceston. 

He attended the University of Tasmania from 1997-2000, where he attained a Bachelor's Degree in Human Movement, later with a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership at the Australian Catholic University. He has also completed a Graduate Certificate in Religious Education. 

Mr Ralph is married to Julia, and together they have four children. He is a keen fisherman and a volunteer member of the Pipers River Fire Brigade, part of the Tasmanian Fire Service. His sporting background includes playing cricket and football for Clarence, and he previously umpired AFL football, including multiple NTFL and SFL Grand Finals and over 40 Senior VFL games.