Staff in Focus

Q & A with  . . . Miss Giorgia Bakeberg

THE DRAGON: A big welcome to St George’s - tell us about your background and what led you here?

Miss Bakeberg: I grew up in Perth and attended St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School for my primary and secondary education. I began university in a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, but soon realised I didn’t want to become a doctor or researcher. After talking with my parents, I noticed I’d always gravitated towards teaching — coaching netball, teaching Pilates, and even playing “pretend teacher” as a child. I switched to a Bachelor of Secondary Education and haven’t looked back.

While in Canberra, I took on a boarding role alongside teaching and discovered I really enjoyed the pastoral and wellbeing side of education. So when the Head of Year 11 and 12 role came up at St George’s, I jumped at the opportunity.

What attracted you to St George’s and to leading our senior years?

St George’s has always been a school I was interested in teaching at. Having grown up and worked in Anglican schools, I knew the ethos and values aligned with my own. The school’s location in the heart of the Perth CBD also offers unique opportunities.

I’ve always connected well with senior students. I enjoy seeing them grow into their independence, and I know these years are pivotal. I hope to support students through this important stage of their lives.

What do you see as the most important focus for students in Years 11 and 12 — beyond academic results?

Finding out who you are and what you love. Results matter, of course, but understanding your interests and yourself is fundamental. Doing what you enjoy and meeting like-minded people is what makes life fulfilling.

How would you describe your leadership style when working with senior students?

I prefer a collaborative approach. Senior students are capable of making good decisions, though they sometimes need guidance. I like to explain the “why” behind decisions and involve students wherever possible.

What excites you most about working with this particular cohort of students?

I’ve heard so many positive things about this cohort, so I’m really looking forward to meeting them and working alongside them. They sound like a great group, and I feel privileged to support them.

What do you hope students will say about their senior years at St George’s when they look back in five or 10 years?

I hope they don’t say, “I just studied all the time and didn’t enjoy it.” I’d love them to say they enjoyed their senior years, felt prepared for adulthood, and learned a lot along the way.

Is there something you’re especially passionate about supporting in senior school — wellbeing, pathways, leadership, character?

Wellbeing, character and pathways are my key passions. Wellbeing and character are closely linked — understanding who you are helps you build your own wellbeing. I also love supporting students with pathways and career planning. There are many routes after school, and as long as students are interested in what they’re doing, that’s what matters. It’s also just as important to learn what you don’t enjoy.

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

Although I grew up in Perth, I was born in Roodepoort, Johannesburg. My parents moved to Australia when I was one to give my sister and me greater access to opportunities and education. Neither of my parents went to university, so for both of us to have tertiary qualifications and be working in our fields is something they’re very proud of.

Mrs L Quartermain

Marketing and Community Engagement Manager