Page 13 - Demo

recall that I drew families to the heart of the school, creating a vibrant environment where children, parents, and grandparents were cherished and brought together. Ultimately, I hope they%u2019ll remember that I helped create cherished childhood memories, built around fun, shared stories of good times, and a resilient community that consistently came together to support one another.What legacy would you like to leave, not just for the school, but for its people and our community?Firstly, I would hope to leave a legacy defined by excellence and the holistic development of every child. Secondly, for Southwell students to become citizens who contribute, and who deeply understand our interconnectedness and the responsibility we all share to help one another. And finally, I aim to leave a learning legacy that also fosters independence and the ability to replicate skills in contexts, and a community where both children and adults are committed to continuous growth and reflection.Tell us a bit about you outside of being Southwell%u2019s new Headmaster?I%u2019m most importantly a Mum to my three children: Lee (Old Girl 2017-22, (15)), Hugh (10) and Monty (7). Like many busy families, our days are packed with school activities, sports, music lessons, homework, swimming, birthday parties, and important childhood friendships. My husband, Matt (Old Boy, 1980-86), is a builder, but more recently, he%u2019s taken on the crucial role of number one Dad, managing the day-today logistics of our family life.We%u2019re a boating family! Our favourite ways to escape and spend time together with friends are boating, kayaking, swimming, or building sandcastles. Before we had children, Matt, his father Murray, and I spent many weekends for years, sailing on the Waitemat%u0101 Harbour, embracing all kinds of weather, the rougher the sea, the better! These days, with children, and a little older ourselves, we%u2019re firmly fair-weather boaties.My understanding of Southwell School%u2019s profound impact began 25 years ago when I met my husband, Matt. The strong sense of community forged here for his entire family, parents Murray and Jill, siblings Andrew (Old Boy, 1989-92), Sarah, and Caroline, were a central part of their lives long after leaving the gates. Decades later, the traditions continue: sports days, barbecues, Chapel services, fundraisers, and various events still bring together people of all ages who first connected at Southwell.