What's your role at Knox?

I'm the Head of School Operations and Wellbeing Systems. My job involves ensuring the efficient management and smooth running of daily activities on the Senior School campus and assisting with the co-ordination of Child Safety training for staff.

How long have you been with the School?

13 years.

What does a typical day look like for you?

There is no typical day at Knox and students regularly participate in a variety of activities both within and beyond the classroom. The dynamic environment ensures that every day involves something different. In addition to teaching my classes, I participate in meeting covering various topics such as staff training, school calendar management, planning for events such as incursion, excursion and assemblies, as well as reviewing policies and procedures.

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

Teaching my classes and witnessing the delight on their faces when they understand a new concept or successfully solve a mathematical problem, collaborating with my colleagues, and having the opportunity to be involved in supporting our students as they engage with Social Justice activities.

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

My dad. While he may have left teaching to pursue a career in medicine, he never stopped being an educator. He has a passion for learning and understanding and continues to deepen his understanding and knowledge whenever possible. He values not just knowing, but also understanding, and will generously give his time to assist others to expand their knowledge. His passion for learning is a gift that he gave to me and led me on a journey that took me to a career in education.

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

Collaborating with colleagues in the Maths Department to develop engaging programs that will cater for the needs of all our students to enable them to achieve their personal best.

Why did you join Knox?

In 2007, I returned to Australia after working in the Philippines for a year. There was a temporary positive available at Knox and I was lucky enough to secure a six-month contract. At the conclusion of the contract, I accepted a position through a volunteer organisation to work in Tanzania. As luck would have it, as I was concluding my two-year contract in Tanzania, the Maths Department at Knox was advertising for a teacher. I was excited at the prospect of returning to Knox as I had so enjoyed working with the Maths Department. I was also aware that a permanent appointment would mean I could be more involved in other aspects of school life. The opportunities for career development and the support I have received from colleagues across all areas of the school during my 13 years at Knox has been exceptional – far exceeding what I could have hoped for at the time I signed my contract. Not only has teaching my classes been rewarding, but the opportunity to be involved in overseas immersions and excursions, as well as support students in their involvement in the ABBOX camp, provide support in the Boarding House and be involved in the Mentor program has allowed me to work with students in a range of settings and allowed me to work and learn from a multitude of talented staff.

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

Having a passion for the education of young people sets the foundations. Building on this, having empathy and compassion for your students, believing in their ability to learn and being consistent in your interactions and expectations.

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

Being part of the ABBOX committee for five years is one of the most rewarding experiences I have had during my time at Knox. Supporting students from Knox and Abbotsleigh as they provided care for young children with disabilities and then hearing the students express how much they have learned from participation in the camp was incredibly moving. Speaking with parents as they attend the Christmas Party at the end of the camp and hearing how meaningful the respite time was for them, and witnessing the emotion as they looked at the scrapbooks and videos that documented all the activities their child participated in was further motivation to dedicate time and effort to being involved in the Social Justice initiatives at Knox.

What impact do you hope to leave on your students?

For them to love learning and understand that power of the spreadsheet.

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

I cannot sing but I do thoroughly enjoy karaoke – I firmly believe that karaoke is all about the performance (which does not need to include signing in tune!).

What advice would you give to anyone joining Knox?

Be as actively involved in school life as you can.