A full-circle moment: Marcus Smalley leads Girton’s Character and Culture into a new era 

An Old Girtonian from 2000 to 2005 and a proud member of Aherne House, Mr Marcus Smalley's appointment as Head of Character and Culture for the Senior School marks a powerful full-circle moment: the student who once benefited from Girton’s culture of care is now one of its architects. 

When Marcus steps onto the Girton Grammar campus each morning, he does so with a unique perspective: that of a leader shaping the school’s future, and that of an Old Girtonian who remembers what it felt like to walk these corridors as a student. 

As he moves into his role as Head of Character and Culture, overseeing House leadership and student engagement, Marcus describes the experience as one marked by gratitude, responsibility and a strong sense of continuity.  "I attended Girton from 2000–2005, so if I look at it in a full-circle approach, it’s nice to be back where it all began,” he reflects. Marcus has always been driven by the transformative power of teaching. “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.” 

He has taught across a range of year levels, from Junior School PE to VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies, each role expanding his understanding of how young people learn and grow. Marcus's leadership journey began with pastoral care roles that deeply shaped his philosophy. “From my experience as a Head of House, I would like to think I have a relational leadership style. I try to know all students’ interests so that I can connect with them on a personal level.” This relational approach is the heartbeat of his new role. 

Marcus’ affection for Girton began long before his first staff ID badge. "As an Old Girtonian, I have very fond memories of the experiences and development Girton can provide its students.” 

After three years teaching at Wedderburn College and a period working with the Australian Institute of Sport as a regional manager, bringing sporting programs into schools, Marcus returned to Girton in 2015. Since then, he has steadily stepped into increasing responsibility: Assistant Head of Aherne House (2018), Head of Jones House (2020) and Acting Head of Senior School in 2025. And now, a new chapter begins. 

Marcus’ new role is grounded in the belief that every student should feel known and valued. “I aim to know every student in the Senior School and some points of interest for them.” He plans to deepen recognition of positive behaviour, strengthen House spirit and build structures that support both immediate and long-term student growth. His own experience as a student informs his approach, even if subtly: “I think I naturally include aspects of my experiences as a student into my thought process… maybe because the school had such a considerable impact on me.” 

He carries a deep respect for the leaders who shaped him - Clayton Jones, Robyn MacCulloch, Les Evans, Rick McWaters, and is mindful of the legacy he now helps to advance. “There is a strong sense of responsibility. We now have the same opportunity to influence today’s students as those leaders did when I was a student.” 

For Marcus, Girton’s strength lies in its breadth of opportunity and the richness of student experience. “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.” 

This variety, he says, is what shapes young people who are well-rounded, confident and ready for life beyond school. And nothing captures that transformation more vividly for him than the end of Year 12. “It is a great joy to see the growth students experience, culminating in them walking across the stage as Old Girtonians.” 

Outside Girton, Marcus’ life is fast-paced and full thanks largely to an energetic family and a lifelong love of sport. He and his wife recently built their home in Strathfieldsaye, where they are raising two children who are now beginning to play organised sports, which is a lot of fun. 

A devoted local sports supporter, Marcus has played and coached cricket with Bendigo United Cricket Club, worked with several football clubs, and still makes the pilgrimage to the MCG to see the Bombers, although he concedes "they haven’t been so mighty for a little while now”.  

Perhaps most surprising is his underwater life. “I hold an advanced scuba diving accreditation and regularly dive in Port Phillip Bay and along the Surf Coast, exploring wrecks and gathering shellfish.” 

As Marcus helps shape the next chapter of the Senior School, he brings with him both lived experience and a clear vision for the future. Guided by connection, grounded in values, and fuelled by his commitment to young people, Mr Marcus Smalley is ready to lead Girton’s culture with both heart and purpose. 

And if you’re wondering about his stance on pineapple on pizza? “Absolutely not.”