Loreto College’s Isabelle Roberts Honoured for Leadership Excellence in Catholic Education
Mrs Roberts was recognised at the 2025 Catholic Education Awards for 46 Years of Faith-Filled Service.
Loreto College Marryatville is delighted to announce that Ms Isabelle Roberts, Religious Education Coordinator and Liturgist, has received the 2025 Catholic Education Award for Leadership Excellence, recognising her extraordinary 46-year contribution to Catholic education in South Australia.
Held on Thursday 15 May at the Hilton Adelaide, the annual awards ceremony brought together staff, dignitaries, and special guests to recognise the exceptional educators, leaders, volunteers, and support staff who breathe life into Catholic Education across South Australia.
“This honour is a testament to Ms Roberts’ deep faith, transformative leadership, and unwavering dedication to Catholic education,” said Ms Kylie McCullah, Principal of Loreto College. “Her impact on students, colleagues, and communities is profound and enduring.”
Ms Roberts began her ministry in 1975 as an organist at Good Shepherd Parish, later becoming a pivotal figure in parish life through her founding of children and youth choirs, composition of original Christian music, and leadership of vibrant liturgical celebrations that invited young people into meaningful participation in the Church.
In 1979, she transitioned into Catholic education, taking on teaching and leadership roles that would span decades and touch countless lives. At Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College in Alice Springs, she worked closely with Aboriginal students, and at St Brigid's School, Kilburn, she pioneered an instrumental music program for newly arrived and ESL students, using music as a bridge for connection, learning, and belonging.
At Loreto College, where she has served for the past 15 years, Ms Roberts has led in Liturgy, Religious Education, Inclusion, and Innovation. She has guided staff in the interpretation of Scripture, curriculum development, and the delivery of the Crossways Curriculum with theological depth and pedagogical creativity.
An early adopter of technology in faith education, Ms Roberts has empowered students to explore Scripture and Catholic teaching in dynamic and contemporary ways. Her work in innovation extends to STEM, where she established an all-girls Code Club and launched school-wide initiatives that have received national recognition, seamlessly integrating faith, learning, and future-focused thinking.
In 2023, Ms Roberts achieved Highly Accomplished Lead Teacher certification, affirming her years of expert practice and commitment to professional excellence. She continues to play a central role in mentoring staff, building capacity, and fostering both the spiritual and professional growth of others.
“Ms Roberts is not only a gifted educator and liturgist but a true leader of faith and vision,” said Ms McCullah. “Her legacy will be felt for generations to come, and we are proud to celebrate her outstanding contribution to Catholic education.”
Loreto College congratulates Ms Roberts on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates the extraordinary dedication she has shown in serving students, staff, and the broader Catholic community across South Australia.
About Loreto College Marryatville
Loreto College Marryatville is South Australia’s leading all-girls day and boarding school, catering for students from Early Learning to Year 12.
Established in 1905, a Loreto education is built on a 400-year-old tradition first inspired by the founder of Loreto schools worldwide, Mary Ward, and encapsulates her beliefs in delivering an education which inspires strong, passionate, and confident girls and young women.
In delivering this view, Loreto College Marryatville provides girls with a well-rounded education where students are presented with a broad range of opportunities and given the support and encouragement to become confident and engaged learners with the knowledge and skills to make a difference to their world.
Loreto College Marryatville is led by principal, Ms Kylie McCullah.
Sarah Finn
