Career trajectory for Nick Baird

A new career path for former St Francis Xavier’s Primary School principal Nick Baird has seen his arrival in the central west region of Forbes.

Mr Baird, the son of Brian and Anna Baird of Wee Waa, is a former St Joseph’s Primary School and Wee Waa High School student.

In his senior schooling years Mr Baird went to St Mary’s College Gunnedah to further pursue his swimming interests.

He was school captain at St Mary’s and a national swimmer.

Taking up the prestigious role as head of learning and teaching for the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes on January 15, Mr Baird has departed St Francis Xavier’s Primary School after holding the position of principal since January 2022.

Prior to this Mr Baird held seven years of principalship experience, including St Mary’s Parish School, Hay, Holy Family Primary School, Parkes, and the Sacred Heart Primary School in Boggabri.

A vocation which began in the early days at Holy Trinity School, Inverell for 11 years as numeracy project lead teacher, REC and assistant principal, has broadened into a professional opportunity which was simply, in his own words, “too good to pass up”.

The diocese embraces a rich history with the Diocese of Wilcannia which was formed in 1883, extending its ranks to the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes in 1917.

Today the diocese covers the entire western half of NSW, from Brewarrina in the north, Broken Hill in the west, down to Deniliquin in the south, stretching across to Parkes and Forbes on the eastern boundary.

Mr Baird’s role will encompass supporting school and system improvements through strategic development and resourcing, and providing capacity building for 18 principals positioned across the diocese.

“It has been a truly wonderful experience leading the St Francis Xavier’s School community,” said Mr Baird.

“I was blessed to have such a supportive team around me and to have built such strong connections with our families.

“I will definitely miss the school, parish and community.

“The new role is very exciting and provides a new challenge professionally. I’m really looking forward to supporting schools and principals from such a diverse range of communities across the state.”

Director of education from the Catholic Schools Office, Chris Smyth said Mr Baird is recognised as a respected Catholic educator in the Diocese of Armidale and the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes and will bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills to the senior leadership role.

“Over the past 19 years, Mr Baird has been a classroom teacher, leader of curriculum, religious education co-ordinator, assistant principal, and the principal of four schools,” he said.

“He holds a Graduate Certificate in Theology and Master of Leadership and Management in Education.

“Acknowledged as a leader who has extensive experience in the use of data to inform practice, strategy and decision making, Mr Baird has also been involved in the development and implementation of Armidale Catholic Schools Office Data Ecosystem.”