Leading in truth and love – Louise Parry appointed as Principal of St Thomas More Primary School

The new Principal at St Thomas More Primary School, Sunshine Beach is ready to embrace this year’s Catholic Education Week theme, ‘Share your light, inspire others,’ within her new school community.

This year’s celebration holds particular meaning for Louise Parry, as she embraces the Catholic Tradition and Marist charism as part of a school leadership role for the first time.

Q: You’re new to the role at St Thomas More Primary School. What has been front of mind for you in your first few months?

A: Stepping into St Thomas More Primary School in Term 1 of this year has been such a blessing. I have been focused on learning about and embracing the Marist tradition, now using it as a foundation for school improvement.

The Marist charism speaks so beautifully to what we value as educators, having a love of work, being deeply engaged in what we do, and using the gifts God has given us.

When teachers and students are engaged in their work and recognise their unique gifts, learning becomes meaningful and joyful. That’s how we strengthen both individuals and our community. We continue to support a culture where students are encouraged to grow, connect and flourish in our learning and faith.

Q: What drew you to teaching and leadership in Catholic education?

A: Having worked for the state system for most of my career, this is my first experience working within Brisbane Catholic Education and my first experience working in a school with the Marist Charism. 

My pathway was shaped by a love of people and community. I studied history and literature at university and was always drawn to community focused work. 

I began my career in state education and spent 30 years teaching, including time in regional communities like Mount Isa and Gympie. Over time, I felt a strong calling to be more fully part of the Catholic community. When the opportunity came up and I thought, 'I’d love to be part of the St Thomas More Primary School community and applied for the position.' I feel so blessed to now be here.

At its heart, being the principal at STM, brings together everything I love, children, community, and faith. It truly is my vocation.

Q: You spoke about school improvement earlier, what are some of your key priorities as Principal?

A: I’ve spent my first six months really listening and learning, getting to know our students, families, staff and the broader BCE system. St Thomas More Primary School already has such a strong, vibrant community, and that’s something we celebrate.

Looking ahead, we’re focusing on our explicit improvement agenda around reading, particularly strengthening comprehension through high-impact learning and teaching. We’re also deeply committed to student wellbeing and ensuring our young learners feel safe, supported and known and loved. 

Q: What does life look like outside of school for you?

A: I feel incredibly lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world. I love the outdoors especially the beach. I spend as much time there as I can, whether that’s walking or just enjoying the environment with my family.

I also enjoy going to the gym and playing tennis on a Friday night with friends and family.

Reading is another passion of mine, I particularly enjoy biographies and mystery novels, and I love sharing that passion with students.

Q: What are you most passionate about as a Principal?

A: I’m passionate about being a person of hope, positivity and optimism. I want to be to model hope and faith for our students.

Every child has unique and special gifts, and our role is to nurture those and cheer them on. I believe strongly in telling a positive story about our future and creating an environment where young people feel confident, supported and inspired.

Q: Finally, is there anything you’d like the community to know about you?

A: Family is incredibly important to me. I have six children, and I am entering a very special season with grandchildren. We welcomed our first grandson last year, he’s currently living in Poland, and we have two more on the way in 2026, which is very exciting.

I’m so grateful for the support of my partner and family throughout my career. That sense of love and community is something I value deeply and bring into my leadership every day.

For more information about St Thomas More Primary School, Sunshine Beach click here.

About Catholic Education Week (CEW) 2026 

CEW (26 July to 1 August) celebrations will centre around a new theme, ‘Share your light, inspire others.’ Calling for students, staff and school communities to recognise their gifts and share them generously. 

It captures both the personal and communal dimension of Catholic education: nurturing individual talents and faith, and inspiring others through service, compassion and example.

About BCE Sunshine Coast

Catholic schools on the Sunshine Coast bring together long‑standing tradition and contemporary learning. From schools that have served local families for generations to modern P–12 colleges in growing communities, families can choose pathways across primary, secondary and P–12 that combine strong foundations, modern facilities and the connected community the Coast is known for.

Find a Catholic school on the Sunshine Coast today, click here!

Image caption: Principal at St Thomas More Primary School Louise Parry with students.  ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Thomas More Primary School, Sunshine Beach (2026).