Message from the Head of Middle School - Term 1 Welcome
Dear Parents/Guardians,
My name is John Stewart, and I am the new Head of Middle School at St Mark’s Anglican Community School. I have been an educator for over 30 years and a leader of schools in the UK and Australia for 29 years. Most recently, I have worked at Prince Alfred College in Adelaide, and Scotch College here in Perth. I've also been associated with the Anglican Schools Commission as Head of the John Wollaston Anglican Community School's Junior School. Having lived in the Whitfords area and known previous Heads of School at St Mark's, I have been aware of the wonderful education St Mark’s offers and the talented educators who work here. The high-quality pastoral care and teaching and learning program the School provides is one that attracted me to work here. I greatly look forward to contributing to the future success of this wonderful school and educating your children.
As parents, I feel it is essential that you know a bit about me as an educator. My educational philosophy is a product of my parents, who were both teachers and my career in the United Kingdom and here in Australia. I firmly believe that all students have the equal right to an excellent education. I believe it is essential to develop mutually supportive partnerships with colleagues and parents. I work to establish an engaging, challenging, and differentiated learning environment for students of all abilities. I believe it is essential to develop teacher capacity and leadership opportunities for my staff. I aim to give colleagues and students a voice in our school's development and direction and develop a learning environment where everyone, staff and students, thrive.
As a parent of two young teenagers, I know how important the early years of secondary school are. While our children will face new challenges, such as making new friends, having new experiences in a new school, and seeing significant physical and mental changes, the support and guidance a well-structured school can provide is essential. Working in partnership with parents is also important, and we will aim to keep you well informed and to engage with you on what we do and how we can work best together to educate your children.
Over this year, I hope I have opportunities to get to know you as I get to know your children. Please let us know if you have any concerns or questions about our programs or how we can better support you and your child.
Later this week, you will receive correspondence from Mrs Kelly Nebel, Head of Senior School, and me regarding preparation for the start of the new school year. I greatly look forward to the students’ arrival and the successes 2024 will bring.
Yours sincerely,
Mr John Stewart,
Head of Middle School