Staff News

Meet: Daniel Stanley

What do you currently teach?  

I teach Year 12 Biology, Year 9 & 10 Science, and Year 10 Forensics.

Where and what did you study? 

I studied a Bachelor of Science/ Bachelor of Teaching majoring in Chemistry up here at UNE.

What would be your dream destination over the holidays?

In the current light of things, I wouldn’t mind finally going on a camping trip to Fraser Island. It’s got all the perks of self-isolation with the added benefits of being surrounded by nature. No shopping centres. Plenty of leaves 😉

What can you cook to perfection?

There comes a time in every millennial’s life when the world is flipped upside down and they decide to go vegetarian. Whether it’s for the environment, for the animals, or for the cute vegan girl named Leah who lives next door. Whatever the reason, sacrifices had to be made, one of which was the humble sausage roll… Nevertheless, I made it a mission to construct a substitute, “plant-based”, sausage roll. 

What are some pets you’ve had or would like to own?

Well, earlier this year I had a discussion with my landlord about allowing my dog at the house. This was given a resounding 'yes', so I proceeded with the paperwork and started planning for my dog (who is currently at my mother’s) to come up to “the Dale”. Little did I know that my landlord was fond of taddling some tales and rejected my application, before going M.I.A. 

If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?

Before becoming a science teacher, I had a deeper… more sinister passion… MUSICAL THEATRE… A passion which has consumed many an afternoon of YouTube exploration and caused a series of quizzical looks from students as I burst into song in front of a classroom. 

Dream role:Demetri (Anastasia musical)

Range: baritone

Experience: 'person sitting at bar' in Duval High's performance of "Bugsy Malone" in 200(x). 

If you were a super-hero, what powers would you have?

I’ve never been fond of cleaning, laundry or dishes so perhaps “The Dettol Devil” or “Manned Sanitiser” with the ability to clean anything I touch. “50% Ethanol Man” could also be on the cards, however with my young demeanour that could be misinterpreted. 

Meet: Cathie Simes 

What do you currently teach?  Year 8 - History & Geography; Year 9 History (and Geography in Semester 2); Year 11 and 12 Ancient History; Year 12 History Extension.

Where and what did you study?  

Newcastle Uni (Bachelor of Social Science, Dip Ed): history - ancient and modern; geography. 

What can you cook to perfection?

Anything except sponge cakes and things that involve yeast.

What are some pets you’ve had or would like to own?

Dogs. Lots of them! At the moment we have an elderly bull terrier whose name is Reg.

What would the students be surprised to find out about you?

I run half-marathons. I am a vegetarian. I usually don't eat chocolate. 

If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?

Time travel with Dr Who back to Ancient Egypt to hang out with Hatshepsut.

What was the last movie you went to?  What did you think? 

The final Star Wars ... whatever it was called. It was alright. There was a lot happened quickly. 

Mrs Simes - what you don't each chocolate? How do you do your running without it? Thank you!

Meet:  Simon Mellor

What is your role at ASC? 

I am a Student Learning Support Officer.

How long have you been working at AHS/DHS/ASC?

I started working at Duval a little over three years ago.

What can you cook to perfection?

Deep fried chilli pork spare ribs.

What are some pets you’ve had or would like to own?

I have a cattle dog cross called Wonky. I used to have a pet rat called Scratchy. 

What would the students be surprised to find out about you?

Mr Cameron was my Year 11 Ancient History teacher at Walgett High School

What is your favourite book to read?

"The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy" (Don’t Panic ... good advice at the moment!)

What makes you laugh. 

Brooklyn 99, people hoarding toilet paper and The Daily Telegraph. 

Thank you so much Mr Mellor. People hoarding toilet paper!  :)  Very topical indeed!

Professional Learning Update

Hi, my name is Melanie Urqhuart-Faint. I work in our school office and have participated in the Excellence in School Administration (ESA) programme. I began this journey in 2018 when I showed interest in becoming a School Administrative Manager (SAM) through my PDP career goals. I have been supported by a Learning Capability Development Officer from the team in Leadership and High Performance.

The ESA program has involved leadership seminars on the performance and development process, on-line tutorials and workshops with other ESA participants from throughout NSW. I’ve learnt various administrative practises such as finance, staff management, systems improvement, DoE policies and process, supporting change in the workplace, building relationships and promoting the school and its vision. 

As Mahatma Gandhi said “we must become the change we want to see”.