Perhaps the bravest amongst us and those who stand to benefit the most through changing circumstances are our performing artists. To direct, perform or act in a major Musical theatre production such as the 2023 production (currently in rehearsal) Footloose requires all who are involved to embrace change and to have immense faith in the creative process. Sure those involved may be familiar with musical theatre however, a show is a new thing, a new script, new songs, a new creative vision, new choreography and new team and the stage awaits a new set. Change is everywhere and it can be overwhelming but in an inspiring way.
Similarly, the Year 11 Play commences its creative journey currently in similar circumstances. Our Director Di McDonald boldly and wisely chooses a pathway for deeper learning by writing an original script and the students have committed with faith to a creative journey that will undoubtedly be marked with profound learning experiences that are challenging, new and uniting.
Change inspired learning is not just taking place on our stage, it’s in our bands and dance ensembles as they shape new music and choreography, it’s in our debating teams as they tackle new material and opponents, and it’s in our sporting teams as they build new combinations with new coaches against new opponents.
While on the topic of change, I’d like to introduce two new staff members to the cocurricular sports team. Brent Tansley and Matilda Griffen. Their employment commenced in 2023 and represents an exciting change full of new opportunities for our students and programs.
Brent has been in the fitness industry for the last 15 years, most recently at Code5 Fitness Warriewood. He is no stranger to education however, having had a short stint in the VET sector teaching the Certificate III & IV Fitness Course at the Australian Institute of Personal Training and six years at Ravenswood School for Girls as a casual Strength and Conditioning and Football Coach.
Families who have been around the representative netball scene in North Sydney may recognise Brent as he has done lots of contract work within Netball Strength and Conditioning – North Shore United Premier League, Northern Suburbs, Ku-Ring-Gai and Manly-Warringah Metro Leagues and State Age. Brent is an experienced and highly qualified football coach who has spent two years as Head Coaching North Shore Mariners Football (now known as Bulls FC Academy). His qualifications include – Certificate III & IV in Fitness, Level 2 Accreditation with the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association and a Youth C Licence Football Coach with the AFC. Although a self-professed love for all sport, his favourite sports include Football (Soccer), Cricket and Rugby League.
Matilda is no stranger to IGSA and the independent girls sports scene, having graduated from Pymble Ladies College. Like Brent, Matilda’s most recent work experience comes from the fitness industry having worked at Virgin Active for three years. Matilda loves working with people and thrives in helping them reach their sports and fitness goals. Matilda recently completed her tertiary studies and graduated with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science. Her technical and sports science knowledge are complementary to her love of coaching and sports administration. Matilda is happiest when on the slopes. She is passionate about snow sports – skiing and snowboarding. If it’s not a minus-10-degree powder day, then Matilda’s sporting passions include Touch Football and Netball.
Owen Vale
Director Cocurricular
