Name: Tania Cairns

Title: Principal at Caroline Chisholm College Glenmore Park.

What do you do in your job?

No two days are the same. I love greeting students as they arrive at school, visiting classes and learning about students. I meet with staff and students throughout the day, listening to concerns, solving problems and ensuring optimal learning and wellbeing.

What first sparked your interest in teaching, and what have you done?

I’m inspired to make a difference to the lives of young people who face challenges like climate change, increasing mental health needs and the dynamic nature of the future of work. I love being a positive role model, inspiring students to be all they can be.

I have worked in a variety of roles in Catholic education over the last 35 years, from PDHPE teacher to leadership roles in learning, curriculum, school compliance and wellbeing. I was Principal of Penola Catholic College before becoming Principal Leader of Caroline Chisholm College, an all-girls’ college in the heart of Western Sydney, Penrith.

What do you like most about the job?

I love responding to new challenges each day, creating a learning community where positive relationships are at the forefront of all we do. We want our students to experience success each day and have strong, caring support networks to grow and flourish.