STORY - "Not Just Another Brick in the Wall "

Stephanie De Lyall, Year 12 student at St Mary's Campus, All Saints College, has written a short story “The ‘Real' Real World” which has been aired on ABC Radio. The story was submitted as part of regional youth initiative “Heywire”. Aurora invited Stephanie to turn her writing talents closer to home….

A fixture of St Mary's Campus, All Saints College, Maitland, Judy Wall has blessed the school with her many skills, which range far beyond the scope of the average secretary. Judy is a dedicated member of staff who has recently celebrated thirty years of service to the college.

Judy's journey began even before she became a member of staff. From 1972 to 1975, Judy was educated at St Mary's High School, which was then an all girls school. Operated under the auspices of the Dominican Sisters, this Christian environment was to be a major influence throughout her career. Indeed, it was the Dominican Sisters who first gave her a secretarial position in November 1976.

After leaving school, Judy enrolled in a secretarial course at the local Technical College . On completing this course, she returned to the school to ask for a reference. Instead, she was given a job. Sr Grace Belcher, then headmistress, was in need of a junior, and offered the position to her. “They put me on a trial,” says Judy, “and I haven't left since”.

Judy explains that the sense of belonging and community that the school provides, is the reason for her longtime presence. This coupled with strong, Christian values and attitudes makes it “the only place she considers working.”

“Such a caring place,” she begins as she describes the school, “And a giving place, with a Christian attitude towards the children, and them to us.” Judy is overwhelmed by the positive nature of relations between staff, students and parents. Her easy, graceful and humble nature makes her an approachable and caring member of the St Mary's team.

Always willing to lend a hand, Judy is a familiar face throughout the school, as she helps not only with secretarial duties, but also with any service she can provide. Her hardworking attitude and positive outlook make her a valued and beloved member of staff. She describes herself as “a non-fuss person.” And indeed she offers herself to the college with integrity - the College motto - and humility.

Judy has seen the school through six different principals. Working originally under Sr Grace, she now offers her experience to current principal Gerard Mowbray. She believes the strong Christian values and understanding nature of these principals upholds the Dominican tradition.

Judy Wall celebrated her 30th anniversary of working for St Mary's in November 2006. Thanks to her outstanding presence, she is certainly not just another brick in the wall of St Mary's Campus.


Stephanie De Lyall

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