Stepping forward into growth...

In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step backwards into safety - Abraham Maslow

It is absolutely wonderful to be back at the College after 12 months working at the Academy of Teaching and Leadership Excellence. My time at the Academy gave me invaluable insight into high-quality school leader preparation and best practice in teaching and learning. I return to the College with experiences that have broadened not only my thinking but also my capabilities as the leader of our school.

A highlight of my time at the Academy is the opportunity to showcase Sandringham College at a national level. I will be presenting at the Australian Centre for Educational Leaders Conference in Sydney during the September holidays. Alongside a colleague, I will be presenting to hundreds of school leaders on Leading School Pride and Confidence, which focuses on how to turn good schools into great ones and draws directly on my experiences at Sandringham College.

Stepping away from the school was not easy. Change is never comfortable, and I initially struggled to find my feet. But it is only by challenging ourselves that we create the chance to grow.

As a College, we are about to take another step forward as we begin our work on introducing the Science of Learning and VTLM 2.0. I am passionate about embedding research-based best practice in teaching and learning, and I look forward to sharing more about this with you in early 2026, when I plan to run a series of parent information nights to align with our implementation.

Finally, if you are a teacher, or know a teacher who shares a passion for the Science of Learning, we will be looking for new staff to join us in 2026. You don’t need to be an expert. You simply need to be open to instructional coaching, explicit teaching and to joining us on the exciting journey ahead.

Fay Kelly - A fond farewell...

I would like to acknowledge and share the gratitude of the whole College for the incredible work that Fay Kelly has undertaken on behalf of our community over the past 46 years. It is rare these days to see someone dedicate so much of their working life to one organisation. Not only has Fay worked at the College for 46 years, she is also a former student, having attended Sandringham Tech for six years. In total, Fay’s connection, commitment, and contribution to our school span 52 years. Fay’s husband, Paul, also worked at the College as our facilities manager, and together they are now looking forward to a well-earned retirement travelling around Australia.

Fay’s work in our accounts payable position has been outstanding. She has always been willing to find ways to help us improve as a school and to make things run more efficiently. She has been a constant support to the College’s principals and business managers and has mentored many members of our admin team.

Most of all, I will miss Fay’s voice over the PA system — calm, reassuring, and always professional. All the best, Fay. We will miss you!