Meet the Teacher: Ryan Lenarcic

At St Francis Xavier College, learning is about more than just gaining knowledge – it’s about discovering who you are, what you value, and how you can make a meaningful contribution to the world. Few teachers embody this philosophy more than Ryan Lenarcic, Head of Religious Education.

Now in his third year at SFX and fifth year of teaching overall, Ryan teaches Year 11 and 12 Religious Studies, helping students explore some of life’s biggest questions through the lenses of religion, philosophy, ethics and Catholic doctrine.

For Ryan, teaching was a natural career choice driven by a genuine passion for his subject.

“I love studies of world religions, philosophy and Catholic doctrine,” he said. “Teaching gives me the opportunity to share that passion with others and engage with topics I love every day.”

 

Encouraging Curiosity and Critical Thinking

One of the things Ryan enjoys most about teaching at SFX is the willingness of students to engage with new ideas and perspectives.

“The students here are very keen to learn,” he said. “They show a great interest in new topics, particularly the more abstract ideas we cover in Religious Studies. They’re also very open-minded and willing to consider different worldviews, religious beliefs and philosophical perspectives.”

This openness creates an environment where meaningful conversations can thrive, allowing students to challenge assumptions, think critically and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Learning Through Debate

Ask Ryan about his favourite classroom activity and the answer comes quickly: debates.

“I love classroom debates,” he said. “They’re a lot of fun because students have the opportunity to explore perspectives they may not initially agree with.”

Students are often assigned a position to argue, encouraging them to step into someone else’s shoes and view issues from a different angle.

“The best moments are when students engage in genuine, passionate but respectful discussions,” Ryan explained. “They learn to support their views with logic, reasoning and evidence while also understanding the perspectives of others.”

These conversations not only strengthen critical thinking skills but also help students develop empathy, confidence and effective communication.

Finding Passion Through Learning

Ryan believes one of the most important ingredients for success at school is enjoyment.

“The most important thing for education and learning is having fun with it,” he said. “The subjects we enjoy are often the ones where we grow the most, both in knowledge and as people.”

He encourages students to pursue their interests regardless of stereotypes or expectations.

“Students should make decisions based on who they are as individuals, not on what others expect of them,” he said. “Whether it’s a subject, a sport or an activity, it’s important to explore what genuinely interests you.”

For Ryan, school should be a time when students discover their strengths, passions and identity as they prepare for adulthood.

An Authentic Community

When reflecting on what makes SFX special, Ryan points to the College’s authentic commitment to student wellbeing and development.

“We have strong programs focused on pastoral care, academic growth, physical development and mental wellbeing,” he said. “What stands out is that they feel genuine. There’s a lot of care, effort and time invested in helping students grow.”

He also describes SFX students as authentic.

“They’re not afraid to share their perspectives, beliefs and worldviews. That’s what makes my job so enjoyable. I can help students develop and articulate what they believe in a thoughtful and meaningful way.”

Helping Students Discover Who They Are

If there is one thing Ryan hopes students take away from their time at SFX, it’s a stronger sense of self.

“I hope they remember SFX as a time when they discovered who they are,” he said. “A time when they were able to grow as people, identify what’s important to them and understand how those values will shape their future.”

Through thoughtful discussion, respectful debate and a passion for lifelong learning, Ryan is helping students do exactly that—equipping them not only with knowledge, but with the confidence to navigate life with purpose, authenticity and courage.

At St Francis Xavier College, teachers like Ryan Lenarcic inspire students to think deeply, explore new ideas and discover the person they are becoming.