Katrina Brennan sits down with Great Scot , sharing her background and views with the Scotch Family
As a new member of the Scotch Family , could you tell us a bit about your background in the lead-up to your appointment as Vice Principal - Head of Senior School ?
After studying for an Arts / Law Degree at Monash University , I began my professional life as a lawyer , working in criminal and family law . After a period at the Commonwealth Administrative Appeals Tribunal , I focused on personal injury work .
I decided to pursue a career in education , as I felt a strong vocational calling towards classroom teaching . I have since had broad and varied experiences . My teaching has been in English , Literature and Legal Studies ; working with Years 7-12 students and as a VCE assessor for English . I have taught and led in a variety of schools , including a large independent co-educational school , a country Catholic school and in the independent girls ’ school sector .
I have held a range of leadership positions , including Head of House , Director of Middle School , Director of Senior School , Deputy Principal , Head of Staff , and most recently , Principal , prior to coming to Scotch . I have also completed a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Melbourne .
Now that the dust has settled a bit , what are your first impressions of our school ?
I loved the grounds of Scotch from the moment I first came here , and this has only deepened ; the gardens and ovals are breathtaking , and I particularly love the river setting with the gum trees , the Main Oval and the view to the Littlejohn Chapel .
I have had a warm welcome from the Scotch Family and have enjoyed meeting the students , staff , families , and of course many Old Boys and their families . Through these interactions , I can see and feel the love and passion for Scotch in this community . The sense of history and of being a part of something bigger than yourself , is tangible .
I am so impressed by what is offered to the students here : support , opportunities , and mentorship within the Scotch community , enabling our students to discover and develop their passions and interests , while enjoying the company of their friends .
How would you define some of your key pedagogical philosophies that underpin your everyday approach and interactions at school ?
I take the responsibility of educating our boys very seriously and , as a parent , I understand the trust that families are bestowing upon us , by choosing Scotch to educate their sons . I have always sought to put students at the heart of my decisionmaking , and I believe that staff who love the students and love learning , do likewise .
I therefore lead with my heart , while maintaining and demanding high standards of myself and those around me . I have taken this philosophy into every class I have taught . If students know that you genuinely care about them as individuals , and believe that they can achieve , they will work hard and expect a lot of themselves .
I have been a relational teacher and have extended this philosophy into my leadership style – relationships with people lie at the centre of my work .
I try to face each day with positivity and optimism , understanding and compassion , and provide a safe , challenging and engaging working space , for students and staff alike .
Could you share with us some of the projects you are currently working on and are hoping to implement in the near future ?
It is a very exciting time at Scotch College . I have been working with the Executive team and Council on the strategic plan , which sets a clear direction for Scotch College and encapsulates our values and vision , leaving scope for change and individuals ’ input .
I am working with others in relation to the timetable revision , transition programs , the health and pastoral care structures , and programs in the Senior School and character education .
What roles would you like to see Scotch students play in their future lives ?
This is a great question ! I wish to see Scotch alumni flourish , living a well-rounded life , enjoying the pursuit of their interests and passions . Many will excel in their careers , and I am sure they will be involved in a variety of industries . I hope they are well connected with people and enjoy satisfying relationships , and that they serve their communities , in the tradition of Scotch College and its graduates .
In your opinion , what are some of the key advantages of a boys ’ education ?
I think a boys ’ school is uniquely positioned to celebrate boys and cater to their needs . In boys ’ schools , the staff are choosing to work with boys and can focus on supporting them to grow to be men of good character .
We can challenge and engage boys . They are surrounded by male role models and strong female teachers . We can teach boys free of distraction and without gender stereotypes , in terms of subject interest and co-curricular pursuits . We are able to focus on boys and guide the development of well rounded , healthy men who engage with the world in a positive way . There are many ways to be a boy at Scotch , and the diversity of interests and pursuits is a huge strength .
Would you mind sharing with us some of your key passions or hobbies ?
I love travelling and have been fortunate enough to do a lot of it in my life . I look forward to continuing to explore the world . It is wonderful to plan an itinerary and see it come to life , travelling with family and friends . I love the arts ; I am a regular theatre-goer , a huge reader , enjoy live music and visiting art galleries and museums .
I love relaxing in the outdoors and in nature , at national parks or the beach , and swimming in the sea . I love food , wine and good friends and conversation . Above all else , I love my family , including my husband and son , and our beautiful chocolate labrador , Marz .
www . scotch . vic . edu . au Great Scot 29