Grammar Gazette- Issue 1, 2008

STAFF

Mr Shane Skillen Teacher, Technology Studies Faculty Appointed to the School in July 2005, Shane is an innovative educator who works with both teachers and students to develop their IT literacy. He is passionate in his belief that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills are not just for the classroom but essential tools for life and he takes every opportunity to assist members of the School community to develop their IT fluency. Through his research, Shane has developed an extensive understanding of youth culture which he builds on when developing curriculum. His presentations to students, staff and parents have helped many understand and navigate more safely through virtual social spaces such as MySpace and Facebook. Shane co-ordinates the development of the subject Innovative Design and has instigated curriculum links with Bulimba State School that have enabled Year 10 students to develop interactive learning tools that are now used by Year 2 classes. Last year Shane was invited to showcase ICT development across the School to a group of Philippine educators who were, in the words of one participant, ‘blown away’ by a presentation that integrated current theory of educating girls about ICTs, creative industry standard student examples and discussions of future directions in ICT development. He has presented at the Australian Teachers of Media National Conference and worked with Dr Kay Kimber to develop the web site of the School’s Centre for Professional Practice. Within the classroom Shane has created a multimedia learning environment that challenges students to envision possibilities and make new connections. Across the broader School he has supported and educated both staff and parents to help them understand the impact of technology and the challenges and benefits that using it effectively can bring. Dr Ann Farley Director, Technology Studies Faculty

Dr Bruce Addison Director, Social and Environmental Studies Faculty Bruce came to Brisbane Girls Grammar School in 1999 as Head of Economics. His talents as a teacher and leader were quickly recognised as he was soon promoted to the position of Head of Faculty (later known as Director) of Social and Environmental Studies in 2001. Bruce began his career in the corporate world of banking. Coming from the ‘real’ world of business and employment provides an added dimension to the world view he offers his students. In the classroom, Bruce is an inspired and dedicated teacher. He challenges his students about the world of economics and the role it plays in shaping society, human behaviour and perspectives. Humanity rather than the mighty dollar is central to any course in economics taught by Bruce.

Mrs Anna Corbin Teacher, Social and Environmental Studies Faculty Anna Corbin, a past student of Brisbane Girls Grammar School, joined the staff of the Social and Environmental Studies Faculty in 2008. Anna is a specialist in the middle years of schooling having graduated from the Queensland University of Technology’s Bachelor of Education programme with honours in 2004. Before working at Girls Grammar, Anna worked for Education Queensland and St Paul’s Anglican School. Anna is an elite sportswoman having represented Queensland and Australia in water polo. Since developing an interest in coaching during both her school and university days, Anna has now been appointed Girls Grammar’s head coach of water polo. Anna believes strongly in the value of the School’s co-curricular programme for the opportunities it provides for the growth and development of both the students and staff. Her own words probably best describe her interest in this area: ‘Coaching has provided me with many skills and experiences in dealing with the world beyond the classroom: the creation of a sense of

Student care in the classroom and staff room underpin Bruce’s approach to education and is a key professional driver. He endeavours to foster positive relationships, respect and responsibility among student and staff in his care. He challenges and cajoles to prompt deeper teaching and learning. He urges teachers to question and reflect on their practice and is a staunch supporter and advocate of professional development. Among his students he arouses curiosity and critical thinking and provides opportunities for extension in and out of the classroom. Bruce is both a scholar and a deep thinker. He completed his PhD in educational leadership at the end of 2007 in record time. He is a leader in his subject Economics as he is an active executive member of the Queensland Economics Teachers Association, an experienced Review Panelist for Senior Economics and a member of two Queensland Studies Authority committees: the Economics Syllabus Subcommittee and the Business and Commerce Subject Advisory Committee. Bruce is a man of vision, innovation and conviction. He has shaped the Social and Environmental Studies Faculty into an Ideas Faculty. He has ensured that the faculty retains its rigour in pedagogical delivery while embracing new ways of doing and being. Ms Julie Hennessey Head of History

teamwork, the value of high expectations and standards, and the ability to communicate effectively with a variety of groups including parents and students’. It is always good to welcome alumni to the staff of the School. In the short time she has been with us, Anna planning as well as a delightful presence in the staff room. Role models for young women are essential in a school such as ours; no doubt Anna will contribute significantly to the Brisbane Girls Grammar School experience of her students as the years progress. Dr Bruce Addison Director, Social and Environmental Studies Faculty has demonstrated a love for her disciplines, a thorough approach to

grammar gazette autumn 2008 17