Introducing our New Head of Boarding - Term 3 2024

Introducing Joanna Andrew, our new Head of Boarding from Term 3 2024 

We are delighted to introduce Ms. Joanna (Jo) Andrew as our new Head of Boarding, commencing full-time from Term 3, 2024, reporting to the Principal. Jo joins us from New Zealand, bringing a wealth of experience in teaching and boarding from her extensive work across international schools and in her home country. Her husband, Jon Disher, started at Kambala in Term 2, teaching senior school IB Mathematics, and their daughter, Makenzie, will be joining us in Year 9 alongside her mother.

Jo is excited to integrate her family into our boarding community, emphasising the importance of making our boarding program a priority. Her primary goals include establishing a strong sense of community, fostering positive relationships, and supporting individual boarders in their academic and personal development.

With extensive experience in physical education and boarding, Jo has learned valuable lessons that shape her approach to leading, nurturing, and educating young women. "Young women thrive in an inclusive environment where they feel valued and respected," she shares. Jo believes that strong mentors and positive role models are essential in helping young women navigate their educational journeys and prepare for life beyond school.

The Benefits of Family-Style Boarding

Jo is a strong advocate for intimate family-style boarding, which she believes has a significant place in contemporary boarding offerings. "Family-style boarding helps create a strong sense of community and provides opportunities for mentorship," she explains. In such an environment, social skills, independence, and resilience flourish. This type of boarding experience supports students individually and collectively, to enhance their academic engagement and overall life balance. 

Fostering Positive Relationships Amid Digital Distractions

In today’s digital age, fostering positive relationships among our young women is more crucial than ever. Jo believes that meaningful interactions and quality conversations are the cornerstone of these relationships. She emphasises the need for face-to-face interactions and setting boundaries around digital use. "Our young women need role models who are supportive of their interests and well-being," says Jo. She also highlights the importance of educating students on net safety as they navigate the digital world during their teenage years.

The Importance of Sleep, Nutrition, and Exercise

Jo also emphasises the critical role of sleep, nutrition, and physical activity in the development of young adults. "Sleep, nutrition, and physical activity are the pillars of balanced health," she asserts. Prioritising these aspects leads to improvements in concentration, immune system function, and self-esteem. Jo’s experience in physical education, particularly in netball and basketball, has equipped her with the wisdom to support the physical, mental, and social well-being of our young women.

Excited for Sydney Adventures

Jo, Jon, and Makenzie are looking forward to their new life in Sydney. "We are excited to meet new people, explore the city, try the food, and attend events," Jo enthuses. Having lived in various countries, she enjoys learning about local cultures and participating in community activities.

Outside of work, Jo and her family are passionate about sports. "We are a sports-crazed family," she laughs. Weekends are filled with coaching and playing netball and basketball. Jo has previously played in the National Netball League and is now heavily involved in coaching, including a school-age team and the Canterbury Tactix coaching group. Basketball remains another passion, both playing and supporting her daughter at her games.

We warmly welcome Jo and her family to our community and look forward to the positive impact they will undoubtedly bring.

Ms Megan Setches will continue to play a key role as part of the senior leadership in boarding taking responsibility as Residential Dean of Boarding. Megan will work closely with Jo to ensure a welcoming and well organised boarding routine for our girls. Ms Jo Sarmiento will return to her responsibilities within the senior school.