Matthew Flinders Anglican College welcomes Shona Henderson to the staff team in the new role of Head of Information, Literature and Resource Services (Primary School). Shona will be responsible for the strategic leadership and management of information literacy, literature and resources in the Primary School, which encompasses many objectives. Shona brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and passion.
Q: Through your role, how do you intend to support and guide the students at Flinders and the College community?
Shona: I have a strong background in curriculum, cooperative learning and contemporary pedagogical practice, and a passion for literacy and creative and critical thinking. My vision is to collaborate with colleagues to inspire a sense of wonder, curiosity and enthusiasm for learning in our students.
What are you looking forward to about your new role?
I’m keen to bring my passion and skills in literacy and creative thinking into the role, which will hopefully complement our students’ information skills, love of literature and overall journey into the Flinders learner traits.
Please share your background story.
I immigrated to Australia from Scotland when I was 18 years old and have lived in Darwin on and off for the past 34 years. I also did part of my ‘growing up’ in Papua New Guinea in the late 70s and early 80s. I am married with two grown-up children and have a replacement fur baby called Noffee (a two-year-old Labrador!). I moved to the Sunshine Coast last year and absolutely love it.
What roles have you previously worked in and what have you enjoyed about your career to date?
I have worked in education for the past 17 years in the Northern Territory in a variety of roles from Classroom Teacher (Years 1 to 6), to Senior Teacher, to Deputy Principal. My last role was as Principal at Bees Creek School of 400 students, located 20 minutes from Darwin. I’ve enjoyed challenging myself and trying out various roles within the education system and am keen to help shape the new role of Head of Information, Literature and Resource Services. I had a previous life in hospitality, managing restaurants with my husband, but that was a long time ago!
What do you enjoy about living on the Sunshine Coast?
I have lived here for 12 months and love the weather, the leash-free dog beaches and the location (there are so many places to visit on the weekends).
What hobbies do you enjoy on the Sunshine Coast?
I have dabbled with stand-up paddle boarding, and love long walks on the beach and in the bush. I have a passion for finding good restaurants.
What do you enjoy about working in a school community?
I enjoy being part of a community where I have the privilege to develop and nurture relationships with students, add some creativity and fun to their learning experience and hopefully contribute something positive to their journey.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Listen with the intent to understand, not the intent to reply.
Who gave you the advice and how has it helped you to grow as a person?
I honestly can’t remember who gave me that advice but it is something I continue to work on every day!
