Meet the Acting Head of Senior School

To celebrate Mr Marcus Smalley commencing his new role as Acting Head of Senior School, we decided to ask him some questions to help us get to know him a little better – from his leadership insights to his personal interests.

What inspired you to become a teacher and continues to motivate you in the profession?

Teachers have a tremendous impact on young people’s lives both in the classroom and in terms of their personal development. I enjoy teaching students content and skills that enhance them academically, but I take great pride in playing a part in their social and emotional development. The Valedictory Dinner and Last Day of Year 12 are my favourite events on the school calendar. It is a great joy to see the growth the students experience throughout their time at Girton culminate in them walking across the stage as Old Girtonians, knowing that we as a school played a role in their development. 

What have been the highlights or defining moments of your teaching career so far?

I have enjoyed every stage of my Girton teaching journey. From teaching Physical Education in the Junior School to teaching Years 7 to 10 PE and VCE Outdoor Environmental Studies. In addition to my teaching, I have found great reward in moving through the school’s pastoral care leadership roles. I was appointed Assistant Head of Aherne House in 2018, Head of Jones House in 2020, and now Acting Head of Senior School. I strongly believe in lifelong learning, and each of these roles has provided me with a new set of experiences and learning opportunities. 

What first attracted you to Girton Grammar?

As an Old Girtonian, I have very fond memories of the experiences and development Girton can provide its students. When a position became available in the PE Department, I was thrilled to be appointed as a member of staff. I firmly believe that Girton provides a fantastic opportunity for students to open doors to future education and employment opportunities and also to become the best and most well-rounded version of themselves. 

What excites you most about stepping into the Head of Senior School role?

I think House Tutors play a hugely important role in the school, and one of the things that interested me about becoming a Head of House was that I was able to support an even wider range of students than just the one House Tutor group with their academic and personal development. The Head of Senior School role sees this focus spread even wider, and I’m looking forward to supporting all students in the Senior School, not just those from Jones House, as I have done previously as the Head of House. 

What are your priorities for supporting students and staff in the Senior School?

I believe that recognition of positive behaviours and effort is hugely influential. I aim to do this as much as possible, and I will also aim to know every student in the Senior School and some points of interest for them. I will also focus on school policy matters and on both short- and long-term growth and support. 

In your view, what sets the Senior School experience at Girton apart?

I think the breadth of opportunities we provide to support students' holistic development is fantastic. On any day of the week, a student might start their day with a choir or music lesson, learn a diverse range of content and skills as they move throughout their subjects, participate in a lunchtime co-curriculum activity like the Girton Community Action Group (GCAG), engage in their House’s Spirit Cup practice, and then head to our gym as part of the Sports Excellence Program or another sporting opportunity. Throughout the year, public speaking and community service also provide students with opportunities to move outside their comfort zones. With so many ways for students to make connections and get involved, I feel the Girton Senior School experience sets students up to be the most well-rounded versions of themselves when they depart school. 

What do you enjoy doing in your life outside school?

I love being involved in and watching local sporting events, and occasionally getting to the MCG to see the mighty Bombers play (although they haven’t been so mighty for a little while now). I have a long history as a player and coach with the Bendigo United Cricket Club and have worked for multiple football clubs across the years. I have a young family that keeps me on my toes at home, and my children are now beginning to play organised sports, which is a lot of fun. Outside of sports, I like exploring outdoor areas with my family, and we spend plenty of time at a variety of beaches along the Bellarine Peninsula and Victorian Surf Coast.

What’s something students would be surprised to learn about you?

I hold an advanced scuba diving accreditation and regularly dive in Port Phillip Bay and along the Surf Coast, exploring wrecks and gathering shellfish. 

What was your favourite subject at school (besides PE)?

I enjoyed Biology and Psychology.

If you weren’t a teacher, what would you be doing?

I would enjoy being involved in high-performance sports, in performance and physical development, psychology, or even working as a nutritionist for elite performers and teams.

Pineapple on pizza – yes or no?

Absolutely not.