The sky’s the limit for students at Loyola

Luke Knight and John Bundalin were awarded the Air Vice-Marshal medal for leadership

The visit included a tour of the Catholic Trade Training Facilities

On Monday 3 September, Air Vice-Marshal Mel Hupfeld DSC, Air Commander of the Royal Australian Air Force visited Loyola Senior High, Mount Druitt to tour the school’s Trade Training Centre and speak with students about his experience.

Accompanied by Group Captain, Kevin Russell, Director Chaplaincy Air Command and the Aide-de-Camp to the Air Commander, Flight Lieutenant Skye Sm­­ith, the Vice-Marshal toured the carpentry and automotive workshops, hairdressing salon and library and observed a Year 11 Mathematics lesson before enjoying a buffet lunch prepared by Hospitality students at the Loyola ‘La Cova’ café.

Air Vice-Marshal Hupfeld said it was a great opportunity to speak with the students and observe their learning.

‘It has been great to come and see what you all do at Loyola and to speak with the students balancing a trade with the HSC,’ said Air Vice-Marshal Hupfeld.            

Speaking with the Years 11 and 12 students about his experiences in the Royal Australian Air Force, Vice-Marshal Hupfeld also encouraged them to work hard and value their education.

In a coup for the school, Vice-Marshal Hupfeld also presented two Year 12 students, Luke Knight and John Bundalin, with the Vice-Marshal coin, an honour typically awarded to those serving in the Air Force. Luke and John were nominated for the award in recognition of their outstanding leadership and service to the school.

‘I feel very privileged to present these coins but in so doing I also recognise the great work that this school does and indeed all the rest of the students,’ he said.                                               

Loyola’s principal, Robert Laidler, said the visits are part of a larger strategy to provide a range of opportunities for students.

‘This is part of our visitation program at Loyola,’ said Robert. ‘We are inviting a range of notable people from varying backgrounds to speak to our young people so that they get a sense that you can originate from anywhere and do anything you want with some effort and dedication.’

The air marshal spoke to students about his experience in the Australian Air Force and making the most of education

(from left)Assistant Principal, Tammy Prestage; Luke Knight, Principal Robert Laidler; John Bundalin; Vice-Marsha Mel Hupfeld DSC; Group Captain, Kevin Russell and Flight Lieutenant Skye Sm­­ith

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