We are pleased to welcome Rod Dowling to the Perth College leadership team as Acting Vice Principal for 2024. Rod's extensive experience in leadership, developing strategic plans, implementing visions of learning, and engaging with the whole school community will be an asset to Perth College.
Welcome to PC! Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your approach to education?
I’ve worked in schools for over 25 years in a range of roles as well as having a keen interest in pursuing post-graduate studies. I’m currently working towards completing a Doctor of Education with a focus on teacher attrition and retention. I’m a husband and a father of three with our eldest son attending university, a daughter commencing Year 11, and our younger commencing Year 7 this year. I worked in the health and fitness industry before I went into education so I like to use my leisure time for surfing and cycling when I can.
My approach to education has been formed by upbringing and faith, as well as the research uncovered in further study over the years. The first part is that I try and meet others where they are at, and secondly, that true, long-lasting success in life is about having a genuine desire to help others become the best that they can be. I take an optimistic approach with students with the belief that quality learning and teaching are transformational for a person’s life. Sometimes that is simplified to: “You can try and be better again tomorrow.”
You’ve spent over 25 years working in private education, what are you hoping you will be able to bring to Perth College with that experience?
I’ve been a classroom teacher; Head of Department; Head of Year; Dean of Studies; Deputy Principal; Sports Coach; Bus driver; Camp Leader and so many other roles across different schools and contexts.
I hope to draw from my experiences to help others and use my knowledge and skills to ensure the day-to-day operations are functioning well and we achieve our goals as a school.
You have a diverse set of experiences outside of working in schools. How has this enhanced your approach to delivering education?
I tend to seek out new and interesting challenges and I enjoy finding better ways to make learning engaging. I’ve had experience with developing online education modules, leading professional development, starting up businesses and presenting at workshops and conferences. I’ve coached junior sport in schools and the community for several years as well as undertaking community service in different ways. Each of these experiences adds a new set of skills that I bring back into my school roles and focus on school improvement.
What are you most looking forward to in your role as Acting Vice Principal at Perth College?
Throughout my professional journey, I’ve sought opportunities to learn and grow as an educator. I hope to be a contributor to the growth of Perth College, and my goal as Vice Principal will be to find ways to be of service to the school community.