Joining one big family - Theresa Redgwell appointed as Holy Family School Principal

Today (Tue 9 June), Theresa Redgwell becomes a permanent part of the Holy Family School, Indooroopilly community, stepping into the permanent role of Principal.

As the newly appointed Principal, Theresa brings a leadership style shaped by connection, care, and community, a natural fit for a school whose very name reflects community.

In this Q&A, Theresa speaks about her strong focus on creating safe and welcoming environments, her passion for ensuring every student feels a genuine sense of belonging, and her commitment to fostering a family‑oriented school community.

Q: What inspired you to apply for this position at Holy Family School?

A: What drew me to Holy Family is that strong sense of connection, it is a place where relationships matter and where people genuinely care for one another. I am passionate about nurturing a community that feels like a family, where students, staff and families are supported, connected and proud to belong, and where learning and celebration are shared experiences.

Q: What do you hope to achieve as Principal of Holy Family School?

A: My goal as Principal is to create a safe and welcoming environment where all feel valued and included, and where our Catholic tradition is lived each day.

Q: How do you foster a strong community in your new role?

A: I believe strong communities are built through relationships, so I like to be very visible and available within the school, connecting with students, families and staff each day. Open communication and feedback are also essential in ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.

At Holy Family, my focus is on strengthening that sense of belonging, so it continues to feel like a close-knit, family-oriented community where people feel known, supported and connected.

Q: How do you like to connect with students?

A: I enjoy taking the time to listen to students and understand what interests them and what they value about their school. I regularly receive visits and letters from students sharing ideas or proposals, which I really value. These interactions are an important part of building trust and connection, and they help ensure students feel confident in sharing their voice, knowing they are an important part of our school community.

Q: What is your favourite way to celebrate student achievements?

A: Celebrating student achievement is an important part of building a positive and connected school culture. I enjoy recognising success in all its forms, academic, sporting and personal and sharing those moments across assemblies, newsletters and social media. Celebrating together strengthens the sense of community and reflects what makes Holy Family School special, where every achievement is valued and shared.

Q: What are your plans or goals for your school in 2026?

A: Holy Family is already a wonderful school with a strong sense of community, which is what makes it so special.

In 2026 my focus is on continuing to grow that sense of connection while also promoting the school within the wider community.

We also have a clear improvement agenda in mathematics, and I look forward to working closely with staff and the leadership team to support this growth.

By building on our strengths, we can continue to develop both learning outcomes and the strong, family-oriented culture that defines Holy Family School.

More about Theresa Redgwell

Theresa has been Acting Principal at Holy Family Primary School since Term 1, 2026.  

Theresa’s previous leadership experience includes Head of College (Primary) at St Andrew’s Catholic College, Redlynch, Acting Principal at St Andrew’s Catholic College, Redlynch, Acting Principal at St Francis Xavier Primary School, Manunda and Assistant Principal at St Mary’s Catholic College, Woree in the Diocese of Cairns.

For more information about Holy Family School, Indooroopilly or to enrol click here.

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Image caption: Holy Family School Principal Theresa Redgwell with students on their first day of school 2026. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Holy Family School, Indooroopilly (2026).