An alignment in values brought me to ELTHAM College as College Principal. I knew ELTHAM was a place where my passion for holistic education would be lived every day; where teachers are encouraged to show their passion for their subjects and think creatively about learning experiences, and where students would be at the heart of what we do.
I genuinely love being in schools, and I'm never happier than when I'm popping in and out of lessons, talking with students about their learning, helping where I can and learning from great teachers along the way. As College Principal, I strive to engage with students daily and support their educational journey.
I've worked at independent schools in New South Wales and South Australia, as well as in large and complex schools in the UK. Wherever I've worked, my central thoughts and values regarding schooling have remained constant. Being a college principal has allowed me to uphold these values across different educational settings.
I believe that a quality education is one that provides opportunities for young people to be courageous and curious; where they are encouraged to be bold in their thinking and their actions; where they have the chance to discover and develop passions and interests that could last a lifetime.
Schools should be vibrant and diverse places, where the community is a partner in the educational journey of our students. The best schools honour and value their history and traditions, seek excellence and continual improvement in the present whilst embracing innovation and creativity to secure a sustainable future. That is what we strive to achieve at ELTHAM College.
There are few schools situated in such beautiful surroundings as our Research campus, fewer still with community-use sporting grounds with such stunning views, and even fewer with their own student-run restaurant and associated winery. The flexibility of having our City Campus enables our Year 9 students to use the city as a classroom, utilising the enriching resources and experiences that come from being in the CBD.
I extend a warm welcome to all members of the ELTHAM College community and look forward to exploring the many ways we can work together to help our community continue to prosper.
Richard Lisle