Suggestions
Kim Wheeler
Head of Campus, Turner House Junior School at Firbank Grammar School
Professional Background
Kim Wheeler is a seasoned educator with an extensive leadership track record in various educational environments, including government, independent, and international settings. With a strong commitment to high-quality education and a genuine desire to make a significant impact, Kim's professional journey is marked by profound experiences that have shaped her approach to teaching and learning. After residing in Europe for several years, she and her husband returned to the scenic Mornington Peninsula in 2012, driven by the wish to be closer to family and to offer their children the opportunity to thrive in an Australian educational landscape.
Thanks to her time in Italy, Kim carries forward invaluable lessons centered around community engagement, appreciation for different languages and cuisines, an eye for aesthetics, and a genuine understanding of what it means to be a global citizen. Her passion for education is reflected in her belief that learning thrives in environments that prioritize authentic experiences and critical thinking.
Education and Achievements
Kim Wheeler’s academic qualifications are as impressive as her professional experience. She studied for her Higher School Certificate at Kinross Wolaroi School, laying a solid educational foundation for her future pursuits. Continuing her educational journey, Kim obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Music) from the Victorian College of the Arts, where her dedication to music was cultivated amidst academic rigor. Furthering her expertise in education, she completed a Diploma of Education at the University of Melbourne, followed by a Master in School Leadership, Educational Leadership, and Administration at Monash University. This educational background not only equips her with a comprehensive understanding of pedagogical best practices but also positions her as a strong leader within the school environment.
Administrative Experience
In her professional capacity, Kim has successfully navigated numerous administrative roles, demonstrating her adeptness in school management from Early Childhood to Year 12. Her experience spans a diverse range of responsibilities, encompassing generalist, specialist, and administrative functions. Kim is a passionate advocate for teacher training, actively promoting internship and mentoring programs that enrich professional development among educators.
As a Daily Organiser, she has skillfully managed budgets and organized events that contribute to a vibrant school life, ensuring that both students and staff benefit from a well-structured and supportive educational environment. Her commitment to change management is particularly noteworthy, as she embraces innovative strategies to enhance educational outcomes and foster a culture of continuous improvement among her teams.
Teaching Practice and Learning
Kim believes in a student-centered, inquiry-based teaching approach that fosters a love for learning among students. Drawing on cutting-edge pedagogies, she emphasizes personalized learning and the importance of professional learning communities in enhancing teacher effectiveness. Committed to using data to steer instruction, assessment, and reflection, Kim integrates robust evidence-based practices into her teaching methodologies. This unwavering dedication to fostering critical thinking and authentic learning experiences creates an enriching educational environment for her students, preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow.
Leadership, Vision and Innovation
With her innovative and dynamic leadership skills, Kim Wheeler exemplifies a commitment to preparing students to design their own futures. By setting high expectations and embracing innovative strategies, including the integration of ICT learning opportunities, she inspires her teams to reach their collective goals. Her vision for education is not only to teach but to encourage young minds to explore their potentials, match their aspirations with their capabilities, and think critically about their futures.
Service, Teamwork and Community
In her educational philosophy, Kim places a high value on community engagement and sustainability. She has successfully fostered partnerships that enhance the educational experience while simultaneously bridging the gap between the school and its local context. Her ability to listen actively and build meaningful relationships is a cornerstone of her leadership style. Committed to identifying and implementing 'best and next practices', she consistently pursues innovative methods to enhance student and teacher outcomes, encouraging an environment where creativity, problem-solving, and humor flourish.
Pastoral Care
Kim Wheeler's commitment to pastoral care stands out in her professional portfolio. She prioritizes the wellbeing of both staff and students, championing initiatives centered around Resilient Relationships, Positive Psychology, and Restorative Justice practices. By implementing approaches such as the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) and the Reggio Emilia philosophy, she fosters a culture of respect, responsibility, and empathy within the school community. This holistic approach to education not only nurtures academic excellence but also emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and social responsibility among young learners.
Achievements
Kim's extensive career is characterized by several leadership positions, such as her current role as the Head of Campus at Turner House Junior School at Firbank Grammar School, her previous position as Acting Head of Junior School at Toorak College, and her role as Deputy Head of Junior School/IB PYP Coordinator at Toorak College. Additionally, her experience includes serving as Leading Teacher for Teaching & Learning at Mount Eliza North Primary School and Master Teacher in Curriculum and Pedagogy at the American Overseas School of Rome, where she was also the Chair of Mathematics. Furthermore, her background includes influential roles such as Music Coordinator at Brighton Beach Primary School and Coordinator of Music at the Junior School level at Carey Baptist Grammar School. These experiences have not only enriched her skillset but have also amplified her impact in transforming educational practices and nurturing inclusive learning environments.