What's your role at Knox?

I'm the Deputy Headmaster K-12 and Head of Senior School. My role entails working with the many specialist areas at Knox to foster the learning and wellbeing experiences of all students.

How long have you been with the School?

I am very fortunate to be returning to Knox. Prior to working at Scots All Saints College in Bathurst and NESA, I was at Knox for over 20 years.

What does a typical day look like for you?

At the time of writing, I am about to have my first day, but I am expecting a typical day to involve a complete immersion in the life of the students.

What three things do you love most about working at Knox?

The facilities are amazing (I love the pool), but the synergy between students and staff are my main ‘loves’ and will always outscore facilities.

What or who inspired you to pursue a career in education?

I thoroughly enjoyed teaching swimming when I was at university studying Science. It was this experience that led me into teaching.

What part of your role do you gain the most joy?

I have a particular interest in doing research into student self-efficacy, self-regulation, and motivation. I derive great joy in mentoring students to formulate a pathway that provides them with a belief in their ability to succeed. The Knox Academic Indicator (KAI) program is special and provides an opportunity to provide authentic mentoring to our Year 12 students.

Why did you join Knox?

I have only recently returned to Knox. When I previously worked at the School, my expectations were exceeded and I was fortunate to be given many opportunities, enabling me to develop professionally in a variety of areas, ultimately resulting in further advancement.

What is the secret to good teaching and inspiring our young people?

Knowing the story of each of your students so you can show a genuine belief in their ability. Furthermore, establishing clear and consistent boundaries, setting high expectations and providing meaningful feedback that can be acted upon.

What achievement are you most proud of from your time at Knox so far?

There was a student I had the privilege of teaching in Year 10 and then in Chemistry in Years 11 and 12. Academics did not come easily to him. He would act on all feedback I gave him, sometimes submitting the same piece of work multiple times until he had it at a level that he was happy with. In the Trial Exam, he was very disappointed with his mark, yet he persevered and used the lower than expected mark as a further source of motivation. He never wanted to see an ‘exemplar’ produced from someone else, instead he insisted on learning the areas he had to work on. In the HSC, he got a Band 5, a result that far exceeded what he was expecting. As a teacher he showed me the importance of belief, self-regulation, motivation, and perseverance.

What’s your leadership style and why have you found this to be successful?

In a recent profile as part of a leadership course, my strengths were shown to be in the constructive cluster which includes achievement, self-actualising, encouraging and affiliative. As to success – how about I answer that by saying I am always striving to improve.

What impact do you hope to leave on the students?

I have studied Albert Bandura’s Social Cognitive Learning Theory in some detail. Helping students understand the value of learning in a collaborative way (including the teaching of appropriate techniques) and the impact that positive student modelling can have on peers is an impact I strive for.

What is the biggest challenge facing the education sector at the moment? What would you like to see in the future or how do you intend to help fix the problem?

Teachers enter the profession because they want to make a difference in the lives of young people. They are keen to continually develop, regardless of their experience. It is therefore important teachers know they are valued, and they must be supported in applying their craft. It is important that schools provide opportunities for outstanding professional development. At Knox, teachers are supported to be the best they can be through a structured and differentiated program of professional learning.

Who are you outside of Knox?

I love to swim and cycle.

Share one fun fact that people might not know about you.

Despite their performances over the last decade, I continue to support the Wests Tigers.

What advice would you give to anyone joining Knox?

The opportunities are significant. Embrace them.