Powerful Partnership

Stepping into his office is Pam Stains, who currently heads the Junior Learning Centre, undertaking a similar role to Stewart, for the Junior School.

But, for the next six months, Pam will be working closely with Stewart to prepare for a seamless changeover.

‘The next six months acts as a hand over partnership, so that Stewart can get me up to speed so I can hit the ground running, and also so that the transition is smooth for staff, students and parents.’

Fairholme’s unique Teaching and Learning department has seen the College lead the way in academic success in the Toowoomba region consistently for the past six years.

‘I think the big difference here at Fairholme is that there are no barriers. The leadership team do not sit in an ivory tower, unapproachable. They are, in fact, in the classroom daily. I still teach, the Principal, Dr Linda Evans, teaches. Because of that we all work very closely – teachers and students – and we have an understanding. This office is like a railway station, because students are in and out the door all the time, and they are comfortable discussing their academic progress from Year 10 right through to Year 12,’ says Stewart.

There’s a nod of agreement between he and Pam, as they discuss the implications of a change over in the role. Pam says the partnership put in place between she and Stewart for the remainder of the year, will allow her to develop a better connection with the Senior school.

‘Part of us being a leading school comes from the culture, and that comes from the teachers and the students and so being able to spend time in this area is very important.’

When asked what will change, Pam is quick to acknowledge the ongoing changes in teaching and learning at Fairholme.

‘As a school we are progressive in our thinking and that means that we are always evolving. Pedagogy is changing, and so we must keep up with that. But in terms of the feel that parents and students have when they come into the Teaching and Learning department, that will remain the same. That is Fairholme, and it is why we do so well.’

Stewart admits that after more than a decade helping students reach their potential, much of the information he’s built around the job, is in his head. 

‘That’s because the dynamics of this job don’t allow you to just follow a certain path or protocol, flexibility is required. The nature of the work changes every day. Pam has the opportunity to put her own stamp on this role, and I think that’s really important in the way that education and teaching and learning evolves. It’s a journey. There is no formula and in order for us to continue to be leaders, we’ve got to have the ability change ourselves and support change for others.’

Pam has completed a Master of Education Guidance and Counselling, has been a long-term marker for the Faculty of Education at USQ and is also currently studying her Doctor of Education.

‘If we want our girls to be lifelong learners, then it is important that we also practice that and model that for others. By continuing my studies, I hope that I can encourage the girls I see to understand that learning is a lifelong journey.’ 

Pam steps into the role full time in January 2022. Stewart will continue teaching Psychology and assisting with Pathways at Fairholme College in a part time capacity.