Alison worked in early childhood education as a director, group leader, trainer and mentor for over two decades. She has also been involved in community research with the Batchelor Institute, and presented at several conferences. Alison has also served on many reference groups, councils and Boards. With family roots in Lake Evella that stretch across generations, Alison's ties to Yiramalay run deep. Now the Deputy Principal at Studio School Australia, she shares a unique and meaningful connection with SSA. Her story embodies the core values of Studio Schools of Australia, which goes beyond traditional education by fostering a genuine connection to the land and culture. With decades of experience in early childhood education, Alison was one of the first indigenous people to join the leadership team. In this interview, we speak about the Studio Schools model, Alison’s pivotal role within the school, and her unwavering dedication to guiding and empowering every student on their educational path.
Where are you from and what brought you to Yiramalay?
I first came down here just to check out the school. All my family is from Lake Evella and came down here for their secondary education (Meet Alison’s nephew, Aaron here). My family came down here, and then my niece, nephew, and even my son came down. I was working up north, and when it was time for a change, I came down here to understand more about the school since I was interested in the model.
What makes this school special?
One reason is that my kids came through here. And because of my connection to this place, you know? That connection was there from a long time ago and made me think that this was a good place to go and help.
Also, it was an excellent educational institution with the opportunity to learn on-country. It was that model that interested me.
Because I have a background in teaching, I pondered how I could make a meaningful impact by coming here. I wanted to figure out what I could do to enhance the school experience for both students and their families.
Why is the Studio Schools model of learning special?
It's good because it's mobile. You can learn anywhere you want. As long as you can identify where the learning is, you can tap into learning anytime you want. There's also a structured aspect to it, incorporating academic learning into the model.
Another big part is industry-based learning, language, and culture, which are all interwoven within this learning model. I personally relate to this model, making it easier for me to be a leader.
What is your role at Studio Schools?
I was the Cultural Advisor. But in July 2023 I was promoted to be the Deputy Principal.
What do you do as a deputy principal?
I have a lot of responsibilities. I work with everyone, students, mentors, families, and the principal. Being in a leadership role where you know what's happening, what's coming in, and what's coming out has been really good for me. That is one of my strengths, I see myself as a person who is always leading, nurturing, and loving.
I am good about seeing the bigger picture, but thinking about how I best support and encourage the people that I work with, especially the kids. I also work with the adults around them, and equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to be able to work with our kids. I believe that this can make our students thrive, get stronger and be the leaders for tomorrow.