Great Scot | Issue 172 | 2025
Nurturing potential
There’ s a special kind of energy in the mornings at the Junior Primary School. Watch for just a moment and you’ ll see some of our youngest boys walking through the gates with quiet confidence, knowing they’ ve got the support of both their classroom teacher and Stage Leader behind them.
It’ s a reflection of how well the new Stage Leader model is working, and a credit to the effort our Stage Leaders have already put into building strong, supportive relationships with the boys in their care.
Joining Scotch College this year as Head of Prep to Year 2, Andrea Wood brings with her a great mix of experience and a clear vision for these important early years. We sat down with Andrea to hear a little more about what drew her to Scotch and what she’ s looking forward to in this new role.
One of the big drawcards for Andrea was Scotch’ s approach to recognising and responding to the unique stages of development in younger learners.
“ The opportunity to contribute to a learning environment that values both academic rigour and personal growth in the earliest years of schooling was particularly compelling,” Andrea said.
She also sees the Stage Leader model as a chance to shape the experience not only for students, but also for the educators working alongside them.
“ This role offered the chance to work alongside a team of
dedicated educators to lead collaborative curriculum planning and implement evidence-informed teaching practices,” she explains,“ I was also motivated by the potential to support teacher growth through coaching and shared professional learning, and to contribute to a culture where boys are known, supported, and encouraged to thrive.”
Now settling into this newly created role, Andrea is focused on being a steady, visible presence for both boys and families during the crucial early years of schooling. Her approach combines academic guidance with strong pastoral care, making sure that each boy feels supported in his learning and the way he grows socially and emotionally.
“ As Head of Prep to Year 2, I am well positioned to provide a consistent point of connection for boys and their families across the early years of schooling.”
This sense of connection, of truly knowing each boy and walking alongside him in these formative years, is central to her approach. From targeted curriculum development to nurturing a strong team culture, her focus remains on purposeful, responsive teaching.
Of course, not everything that makes school life meaningful can be captured in a curriculum plan or schedule. When Andrea reflects on what gives Scotch its unique feel, she doesn’ t hesitate: it’ s the people.
28