As we begin to set our sights on 2024, we are also finalising some important staffing appointments, who will help to shape our future moving forward. Naturally, we were thrilled to surprise Marg Adams by dedicating the Friday night finale of Aladdin Jr to her.
In front of 400 members of our community, this was a small but significant way of acknowledging Marg’s retirement after 27 years of dedicated service to Junior School Donvale. Marg wanted to retire quietly; however, that was never going to happen! Over a dozen different productions will live fondly in her memory, but we are sure she is looking forward to putting away that needle and thread. During her time, Marg has been a classroom teacher, year level co-ordinator and Deputy Head. In saying thank you for her significant contribution over close to three decades, we also add a sincere bravo.
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Sophie Fisher to the role of Deputy Head – Student Wellbeing commencing at the start of next year. Sophie is a very experienced educator having started her career in Australia before rounding it out in the UK where she taught classes from Year 1 to Year 6 before working her way up to the position of Deputy Head – Wellbeing at the Thomas School in London. In this senior role, she developed a school-wide wellbeing curriculum. Sophie has returned to Australia with her family, and she is very excited about her new role at Carey.
We also congratulate Jo Barker on securing the ongoing role as our ELC 3YO teacher. Jo’s calm and caring demeanour, combined with her extensive expertise and experience both here at Carey and in other early childhood settings, will be a valuable addition to our ELC team. Jo has gained the trust and respect of the parents and colleagues over the past 12 months, and the children are naturally drawn to her warm and engaging approach.
Susie Bauer-John has been a dedicated member of the ELC team, working as a co-educator in both the 4YO and 3YO programs over the past eight years. Her contributions have stretched beyond her role working with the children and their families in Cockatoo and Echidna groups. Her graphic design and creativity skills have shone through on more than one occasion. Susie has decided to prioritise the needs of her own family at this time, and we wish her all the very best.
Congratulations to Jane Birrell who has filled our ongoing classroom role. Jane has impressed us with her ability to create a safe, secure and supportive learning environment. She brings a natural vibrance to her craft. After working across Carey for the past four years, Jane brings with her a rare breadth of experience from ELC right through to Year 6. We are excited by the contribution she will make to the team.
Finally, we welcome Yi Dai to Junior School Donvale as an additional EAL teacher. This valuable EAL support will enhance the work already being achieved in this area.
This rich blend of new and experienced staff at Junior School Donvale sets the stage for a bright future. The wealth of experience, combined with fresh perspectives and energy from new members, is a promising mix that will likely benefit the school and our students in various ways. We are looking forward to the prosperous journey ahead.
Steve Wilson
Head of Junior School Donvale
