ES Staff in the Spotlight
Of our 186 staff at Wantirna College, we have 111 teaching staff and 75 education support staff (ES). Primarily the role of our ES is to support teachers and students to achieve the best possible educational outcomes for students. Their jobs vary greatly, with some providing direct support to students in the classroom and some focused on maintaining our beautiful grounds and buildings, whilst others are in the General Office ensuring payments for camps, excursions and programs are processed accordingly.
Our school couldn’t operate without the valuable work they do which is often not as visible as the work our teachers do. However, it is just as vital in ensuring we provide the best possible opportunities for our students. This term, our Staff in the Spotlight will shine a light on the valuable work our ES do and the people in these roles who support our students and teachers.
This week we are spotlighting Stuart Andrew.
Stuart is one of our talented Instrumental Music teachers and accompanists. He teaches Piano and many of our community would have seen him perform at the Staff Concert and accompany our students at Showcases and events.
How long have you worked at Wantirna College?
A year and a half.
Briefly describe your role and responsibilities.
I teach piano and prepare other Instrumental students (including Voice students) for their performances. I also lead the Contemporary Band C ensemble this year and assist Ms Carolan with running the Mixed Choir ensemble where I also play the piano. Additionally, I often buy chips for the Music Office on Chip Day.
How does the work you do support students and/or teachers?
I provide deeper performance coaching for students, especially our VCE students leading up to exams.
What is the best thing about Wantirna College?
The people. It's a great community to be a part of.
What is the most challenging aspect of your role?
When students don't practice!
If you hosted a dinner party and had to invite three Wantirna teachers, who would they be and why?
That's a good question...um...Maddi Weybury because she always makes me laugh; Nat Carolan because she always listens very deeply; And Alex Howroyd because he's just really nice.
If you were the boss of Wantirna College and had an unlimited budget to spend, what would you spend it on and why?
Free meals for all staff and students.
What’s your ideal holiday destination?
Some place with a lot of wide open nature spaces, such as New Mexico or the Pacific North West...
What do you think is the biggest issue facing young people today?
Phone use and screen time.