Executive Director’s Update to Principals #12 - 27 March 2025

Embracing the Future of Education with Generative AI

In today's digital age, AI and Generative AI (Gen AI) are transforming education. The Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education (DOBCEL) sees the potential of Gen AI while being mindful of challenges like data privacy and equity.

Inspired by John 10:10, DOBCEL aims to foster creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. Gen AI offers a personalised and efficient learning experience. We approach its integration with cautious optimism, ensuring ethical and effective use.

Our DRAFT Position and Guidance Paper outlines our stance on Gen AI, informed by Catholic Anthropology and best practices. We acknowledge the foundational work of the Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW) and support from CENet.

We follow a cycle of Inform, Express, and Explore:

• Inform: Learn from experts and frameworks.
• Express: Articulate our approach grounded in Catholic values.
• Explore: Experiment and evaluate Gen AI uses.

Committed to meaningful encounters and inspired by Pope Francis, we embrace this opportunity to enhance education for our community.  Please download and read the full DRAFT Position and Guidance Paper via the link below. It is important to be mindful that this is a draft at this stage and should not be shared broadly.

Spirit of Catholic Education Awards Nominations Extended to 4 April 2025

The Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Limited is proud to continue sponsoring an award process that recognises outstanding service and leadership within our Diocesan school communities and Catholic Education Ballarat.

The nomination period has been extended to next Friday the 4th of April 2025. I encourage everyone to get involved and nominate their colleagues. Please download the CEW Nomination Flyer below and display it proudly around your school grounds.

In 2025, the refreshed awards align with the DOBCEL Strategy 2035 strategic priorities, supporting our vision: “As partners in Catholic Education and open to God’s presence, we pursue fullness of life for all.”

You can nominate your colleagues here or for detailed information about the 2025 Spirit of Catholic Education Awards, please visit the DOBCEL website.