a.k.a President Pete
Can you tell us about your professional background & how you became involved with SSASA?
I have been in education for over 25 years, starting as a classroom teacher & gradually moving into leadership roles. My passion for personalised learning & community engagement led me to work with small schools, where I found a unique opportunity to make a significant impact. I became involved with the Small Schools Association to advocate for the needs and strengths of these schools.
What do you enjoy most about working with small schools?
I enjoy the close-knit community & the ability to tailor educational experiences to meet the individual needs of students. The collaborative environment in small schools allows for innovative teaching practices & strong relationships with families & the local community.
What are your main responsibilities as an executive member of the association, & how do you support small schools in your role?
My primary responsibilities involve advocating for & promoting the many advantages of small schools. As a member of the executive, I meet regularly with Department & other Association working groups offering guidance on current challenges for small schools & policy implementation. I also network with other small school leaders via a termly Teams meeting within my Portfolio.
Can you share a memorable experience or success story from your time with the association?
One memorable experience was helping organise a state conference that brought together educators from various small schools across the State. The event fostered collaboration & inspired new initiatives that have since been implemented back at schools, leading to improved student outcomes.
How do you envision the future of small schools in South Australia?
I am confident that small schools will continue to thrive through continuing to embrace technology & innovative teaching methods. With ongoing support & investment that they deserve, they will remain vital centres of learning & community engagement, offering personalised education that meets the diverse needs of students within both metro & regional communities.
What advice would you give to educators working in small schools?
Embrace the unique opportunities that small schools offer. Focus on building strong relationships with students & the community & be open to collaboration & innovation. Remember that your work has a profound impact on the lives of your students in your communities.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy DIY & renovating along with travelling & exploring the natural beauty of Australia. I also love spending quality time with my family and friends.
Can you share something about yourself that people might not know?
I began my career as an engineer before returning to university to qualify as a teacher in 2000. I emigrated from the UK to Australia in late 2007 at the age of 43 & have recently celebrated 18 years in Australia. After four years, I successfully obtained Australian citizenship & as a dual national, I can always cheer for a winning cricket team in the Ashes.
