Warren Fields wins Neil Bloxsidge Leadership Award

5/11/2024

​BCE Deputy Executive Director Durm O'Riordan, Head of School Progress and Performance Derek Maclean, Principal Warren Fields, BCE Executive Director Dr Sally Towns, and Bishop Tim. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2024).

​Principal Warren Fields has been named the 2024 Neil Bloxsidge Leadership Award winner at the annual Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) Leadership Dinner on Saturday 2 November. 

The Neil Bloxsidge Leadership Award is named in honour of a former colleague who showed exceptional leadership and was a much loved and highly respected member of the BCE community.   

Warren, the Principal of Our Lady of Mount Carmel School Coorparoo, was celebrated as an authentic and dedicated leader who exemplifies the values of Catholic education by leading with genuine care, a balanced approach, and a commitment to creating a positive, supportive environment for students and staff alike. 

Warren was presented the award by Head of School Progress and Performance Derek Maclean, along with Deputy Executive Director Durm O’Riordan. When announcing the award, Derek praised Warren as a leader who brings both “heart and mind” to his role.  

“Warren’s leadership has driven significant improvement for the students of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and he’s respected by everyone,” Derek said.  

“He is a truly authentic leader within his community.” 

Derek highlighted Warren’s careful recruitment of a well-balanced team, noting that he has built a leadership group and teaching staff who work harmoniously and enhance the school’s operations – resulting in improved learning outcomes for students. 

“Through his strong leadership, data-driven approach, and educational vision, Warren has created a pathway forward that is deeply valued and supported by the entire community,” he said. 

Derek also emphasised Warren’s exceptional interpersonal skills, which have fostered an atmosphere of trust and openness across the school.  

“Warren is a thoughtful listener who makes people feel heard and valued, fostering genuine connections within the community,” Derek said. 

“Warren’s willingness to mentor early-career colleagues, sharing his experience and insights, further exemplifies his commitment to supporting others.  

“In this way, Warren honours the legacy of leaders like Neil Bloxsidge, who empowered those around them with compassion and dedication. 

“Warren is truly deserving of this award. 

"Congratulations, Warren!" 

About Neil Bloxsidge:  

Neil passed away suddenly in 2010. At the time, he was the Director of School Service Centre South. As well as an exceptional leader, he was a much-loved figure in Catholic Education.  He was also a natural born leader, deeply committed, very genuine and very personable with a wicked sense of humour. He was always an accomplished professional.   

You only needed to spend a very short time with Neil to know that his leadership style was inspiring, it was built on relationships and trust and above all, he empowered and built trust in people. His sometimes relaxed and natural style masked a person with great inner strength, focus and strategic ability.  The people who have received the Neil Bloxsidge Leadership Award also show these great leadership traits.    


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