“Good afternoon everyone, and a very warm welcome to each of you joining our CEIST schools this year. It’s a joy to gather, virtually, as we begin this new academic year across our 106 school communities.

By choosing to work in a CEIST school, you are becoming part of a living tradition rooted in the Gospel and inspired by our founding congregations. Our core values – dignity and respect for every person, the pursuit of excellence in learning, care and community, faith development, and responsibility for justice – are not simply words on paper. They are the heartbeat of our schools.

Each of you now shares in the privilege and responsibility of passing on these values to the young people entrusted to our care. Whatever your role in the school community, your way of encountering, talking, teaching, supporting,  your witness, will help them to grow not only in knowledge, but in faith, compassion, and a sense of hope for the future.

I want to thank you sincerely for bringing your gifts and energy to CEIST. Please know that you are not alone – you are part of a network of colleagues, schools, and a wider family that will support and encourage you along the way.

May this year be one of growth, joy, and blessing for you and for the students you serve.” – CEIST CEO Maeve Mahon welcoming new staff to our school on Monday the 25th of August.