Ned Baldwin – nominated by Emily Clarke
At St Alipius Parish School, community is at the heart of everything we do, and no one embodies this more than Ned Baldwin, our dedicated Maintenance and Garden Worker. More than just a caretaker of our physical environment, Ned is a connector, a mentor, and a quiet leader in fostering a school culture of engagement, collaboration, and care. His unwavering commitment to ensuring our school is not just a place of learning, but a thriving, welcoming community, makes him an outstanding nominee for the Spirit of Catholic Education Awards.
Ned’s passion for creating a connected and vibrant school community extends far beyond maintaining our school grounds. While he ensures that our yard and gardens are always at their best, his real gift lies in the way he engages with staff, students, and families to create meaningful experiences that foster belonging and pride. Ned collaborates with teachers to support students who benefit from alternative learning experiences, guiding them through hands-on projects that teach responsibility, problem-solving, and a love for nature. Whether it’s building garden beds, constructing outdoor learning spaces, or working on creative, practical projects, he provides opportunities for students to develop skills, confidence, and a sense of ownership over their school environment.
Ned’s generosity and care extend beyond the school gates. He has developed wonderful relationships with our neighbours and parish community, ensuring that St Alipius remains not just a school, but a valued part of the wider Ballarat community. Whether he is lending a hand to an elderly neighbour, attending mass with our students and staff, or greeting every visitor to our school with warmth and kindness, Ned’s actions embody the true spirit of Catholic education – service, humility, and inclusion.
One of Ned’s greatest contributions is his ability to empower students with practical skills and a sense of stewardship. He doesn’t just take care of our school – he teaches students how to do the same. Through gardening projects, sustainability initiatives, and everyday conversations, Ned instils in our students an understanding of the importance of caring for their surroundings, working together, and taking pride in their school. His ability to connect with students of all ages means that they feel a sense of responsibility and belonging, knowing they play an active role in their school community.
Ned’s presence at St Alipius is one of warmth, reliability, and deep commitment. He is a beloved and essential part of our school, bringing people together, fostering relationships, and ensuring that every person – student, staff member, or visitor – feels valued and welcomed. His dedication to creating a beautiful, functional, and engaging learning environment is not just about the physical upkeep of the school but about nurturing the heart of our community.
For his exceptional contribution to building a connected, engaged, and caring school community, we proudly nominate Ned Baldwin for the Spirit of Catholic Education Award in the School as Community category.
