Welcome to our new Rector

St Stithians College is proud to officially welcome Mrs Celeste Gilardi as she takes her place as the Rector and Executive Head of our Seven Schools.

Celeste Gilardi is a devoted Stithian, who has led the Girls’ Preparatory for the last nineteen years. Prior to  joining St Stithians, Celeste was Deputy Head at Sacred Heart College Primary School where she held the role of Acting Head at various times.

Celeste is an  alumna of Sacred Heart College, where she was Head Girl in her Matric year. She was awarded the Serviam Award (for excellent service – only awarded if there is a suitable recipient). This dedication to service is a hallmark of Celeste’s character.

Celeste completed her studies (Bachelor of Primary Education, Bachelor of Education and Master of Education) at the University of the Witwatersrand.

Celeste is an engaged member of various local and international organisations and is a committed lifelong learner. She places importance on all her relationships and has an established and respected network across many sectors of society, reaching into and beyond the educational sphere. Celeste embraces change, she is intrigued by the future and believes in the power of hope.

She is married to Franco, who is also a teacher. They have been blessed with two wonderful daughters who began, and will complete, their school journey at St Stithians. This gives Celeste the unique ability to see the College not only as a member of staff, but also through the lens of a parent.

Celeste is the fourth Rector of St Stithians College and the first woman to be appointed to serve in this role.  We wish Celeste all the best as she takes her place at the Head of our College.  

We share with you a Praise Poem, written by Sandile Khuluse, performed by Andile Khuluse and edited by Stephen Kotze of our Boys' College which bids farewell to outgoing Rector, Dr Tim Nuttall and welcomes our incoming Rector, Mrs Celeste Gilardi.

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