Introducing: Mr. Gunnion

This edition we introduce one of our newest members of staff, Andrew Gunnion. Andrew joined us at the start of 2024 and has settled into life at WHS extremely well, teaching Maths & STEM to Junior classes. Take a read to learn a little more about Mr. Gunnion.

Tell us about yourself (family, pets, hobbies etc.)

I am happily married with two sons in high school. We recently got our first family pet, a cavoodle named Rocky, who has changed the family dynamics considerably! In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, cycling, cooking, woodworking, sci-fi movies and gaming.

What football team do you follow and why?

Despite being born into an Essendon family, I became a Collingwood supporter in primary school following my best friend at the time. It worked out well as I married into a Collingwood family and have enjoyed the journey. 2023 was an amazing ride!

What job/s did you have before you came to Warrandyte High School?

Before joining the team at Warrandyte High School, I led a team of engineers at Apple in California that specialised in performing physics-based simulation of hardware as part of the design process.  Living and working in the USA was a fantastic life experience for our family.  The weather in California was amazing, as were the USA National Parks.

What made you want to become a teacher?

Returning to Australia, I was aware of the teacher shortage affecting our schools. Teaching is something that I have long considered as a career, perhaps because I have many teachers in my family.  So I decided to make a career change and I am enjoying a new set of professional challenges.

What do you love about Warrandyte High School?

I love the beautiful location and grounds of Warrandyte High School. Combined with the school size, it generates a great community feel.

If you could eat/cook anything what would it be and why?

It would be macarons… they seem crazy expensive to buy, so it would be nice to master them!

How long have you been teaching and what do you love about it so far?

This is my first year teaching. I am primarily teaching junior maths & STEM.  I have really enjoyed the team environment amongst the staff and getting to know the students.

What would be your favourite holiday destination and why?

I have been fortunate to see a lot of the world during my studies and career, but I have not spent any time on the Mediterranean Sea. So I would love to travel through southern Europe along the coast,

What is one piece of advice you give to your students about life?

It’s not original, but I would encourage everyone to stay curious and keep learning.  This is useful no matter what stage of life one is in. For young people, it can be a great way to differentiate yourself from the crowd in job interviews. It was certainly something I have valued in candidates when hiring in the past.