Life worthy Learning

An interview with Andy Callow (Principal)

We hear you're heading off on a trip!  Can you tell us where you're going and what you'll be doing?

I'm involved in a flagship program of Independant Schools Victoria called ‘Leading Learning that Matters.’ They have handpicked a team of Principals from high performing Independant Schools to take part.  We are very grateful to have been chosen to have this opportunity and for BHCS to be recognised as a high performing school. 

We’ll fly to America, begin in Dallas and eventually end up in Boston. For the first week or so, we’ll be visiting various training organisations that show innovative ways of teaching and learning; from Museums to a Military Training Base. This then culminates in a 3 day residential course run by Project Zero at Harvard, Boston - working with world leaders in learning. 

The most valuable experience will be the interaction, discussion and debriefing with the other members of the delegation during our travels.

What are you most looking forward to?

Learning, a lot. 'Lifeworthy learning' is the whole focus. I am so looking forward to learning more, and having the opportunity to bring back knowledge that we can apply at BHCS.

How is it going to benefit the school?

We've appreciated our connection with Harvard to date.  The whole Executive Team completed an online course earlier this year with Harvard called 'Teaching for Understanding'. The opportunity I’ve been given will develop this further. It will enhance what we are already doing here; applying the "life-worthy test" to all learning.  

Will you have an opportunity to do some sightseeing while you’re away?

The organisers have told us we will have some very enjoyable surprises, involving music, sightseeing and some touristy things, but they’ve kept the details fairly quiet! I will be in New York on September 11th and I plan to go to Ground Zero as a personal sign of respect. 

Who will be leading the school while you're away?

The school is in very good hands, if it does fall apart, I haven’t done my job!  We have an excellent leadership team who are just going from strength to strength. Lance Davidson is stepping up as Acting Principal and Ivan Seskis is taking on the role as Acting Deputy Principal.

Any words of encouragement to help us through the last 3 weeks of Term?

Look back at what has been achieved and be grateful. Look around and see what a wonderful school we have, and be grateful. Look forward, to the holidays and be grateful!