Ben Cook (class of 2020) - a Pittwater House foundation for a career in policy

My name is Ben Cook and it is a privilege to feature in the inaugural Pittwater House Alumni Association Newsletter. 

My connection to Pittwater House can be traced all the way back to 2006 when I commenced at the school as a Koala in the Early Childhood Centre (ECC). Over a period of 15 years, I progressed from the ECC to the Junior School and then onto the Senior School before graduating in 2020.

What are some of your favourite memories from Pittwater House?

I have so many fond memories of my time at Pittwater House. I had the great privilege of serving as Deputy Head Prefect of the Grammar School when I was in Year 12. Leading the Big Bro's (the Grammar school’s student-led pastoral program) was an extremely rewarding experience. I also have many fond memories representing both Morgan House and the School in the sporting arena including, captaining the Mosman Shield cricket team, running at cross-country carnivals all over New South Wales to winning the Peninsula Cup Soccer as part of the first XI in Year 12 - and of course, who can forget annual swimming and athletics carnivals!

Additionally, I feel very fortunate to have been taught by some of the best teachers in the business during my time at Pittwater House. There are too many to name all of them but some of my favourites would be Mrs Leman (who I have to thank for my passion for Economics), Mr Browning (who helped foster my passion for cricket), Mr Macaulay, Mr Upton, Mr Hine and Ms Burke.

What have you done since finishing at Pittwater House? 

I graduated from Pittwater House in 2020 and went on to study a Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics, majoring in Economics, at the University of New South Wales, graduating at the end of 2023. Whilst at university I worked part-time as a PE and Economics Content Creator for Atomi, an online education platform for High School students.

During my final year of study, I was offered a position as a Graduate Economist at the Commonwealth Treasury in Canberra, where I now live. Since commencing as a Graduate in 2024 I have met the Treasurer and worked across a range of public policy issues including small business tax policy, climate change policy and fiscal policy. 

I currently work in Treasury’s Budget Policy Division which is responsible for developing the Federal Budget Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO). I am also a leader in Treasury’s high school engagement team and had the pleasure of presenting to the current Pittwater House Economics cohort in August this year.

How did your time at Pittwater House prepare you for your career?

My time at Pittwater House played a central role in the development of both my character and work ethic, laying the foundation that I have been able to build on and use to achieve since finishing at the school. The school motto Semper Diligens (always hardworking) is one that I still endeavour to apply in my work everyday. I am immensely grateful for the time I got to spend at Pittwater House.