David Cook has big dreams for St Gabriels School at Castle Hill and as new Principal he is looking forward to the school’s first Year 12 graduation ceremony.
St Gabe’s, as it is affectionately known as, is an independent Catholic School catering for primary and secondary students with diverse special needs.
Founded in 1922 it has evolved over the years and five years ago started transitioning from a K-6 to K-12 school, growing from 40 students to 200 students.
Mr Cook has over 25 years experience in the education field including Senior Deputy Principal at Wenona and Acting Principal at Hills Grammar.
He holds a Master’s degree in Education and began his teaching career in 1993 as a mathematics teacher at Rooty Hill High School. He has also taught at St Paul’s Catholic College and Masada College.
One of the reasons he was drawn to St Gabe’s was because of its transformative impact on the well-being and growth of students with intellectual and physical disabilities, along with its rapidly expanding close-knit community.
“St Gabriel’s very much felt like a natural place for me to be a Principal,” he told the Hills to Hawkesbury Community News.
“I am a strong advocate for all young people to be placed in an environment where they feel supported, are able to succeed and also be prepared in the best way possible for what lies beyond school.
“The staff at St Gabriel’s are amazing in their dedication for the students and deserve all the accolades that come their way. The community is strong and supportive in so many ways all for the benefit of the young people.”
He says his four years at Hills Grammar allowed him to nurture a passion in teachers for making sure every child was given the best opportunity to succeed at their own level and their own interests.
“The opportunity to work with students of diverse needs at Hills Grammar in the Learning Centre there also instilled in me the passion for providing the most supportive environment for students requiring specialised learning environments.”
The future for St Gabe’s is one of growth according to Mr Cook who took on the top at the start of this year.
“My plans are to continue to grow the school, to continue to provide the choice all families need for the most appropriate learning environment for their child. It is to lead the way in best practice in educating for students who have a range of diverse needs.”
The father-of-two says he has an amazing, supportive wife and family.
The football-playing Principal also loves to read and “escape to the beach” with his family to refresh and unwind.
