Newly-appointed College Principal Glen Seivers brings to this important role a strong faith-based leadership in the Marist tradition as well as a wealth of system, organisational and pedagogical knowledge. In this month’s Principal Profile, he shares his hopes for Cairns only all-boys college as well as what makes him most proud to be the leader of this thriving school community.
What is most special about your school community?
Firstly, our co-educational boarding school. Boarding has long been the heart and soul of St Augustine’s. To be able to offer this service to Northern Australia truly adds a vibrance and richness to our culture. Secondly, specialisation in boys’ education. We are the only all boys option in the region and our outstanding staff know how to teach boys, having been doing so successfully since 1930. And thirdly, the Marist Charism. A truly authentic embracement of the Marist charism by our community is what really makes St Augustine’s special.
What do you hope to achieve in your role as Principal?
To continue to make St Augustine’s the school of choice for boys in Cairns. We have an exceptionally high performing school with undoubtedly the best academic, sporting, and cultural results in the region and arguably Queensland. When you are on top it is always challenging to stay on top. It is at this point you need to work harder. My dream for the school is to take what we are doing well and move to the next level.
What makes you most proud to be the leader of your school community?
Two aspects jump immediately to mind:
1. Producing good young men. Forming boys into men that are community minded, humble and continue to do good quietly. Producing good citizens and good Christians has always been at the heart of what we do at St Augustine’s. Often we receive affirmations on how our boys are a credit to St Augustine’s.
2. Working with highly committed and professional staff. Our staff are incredibly committed professionals who go above and beyond.
What was a defining moment in your education?
It was the teachers that I had from a young age. I clearly remember Mr Sullivan, my Year 5 teacher, being inspirational. As my first male teacher, he was able to form connections with me through sport. Once the connection was made, it was his caring nature and belief in me that formed within me a sense of belonging to my school community. It was from that moment I embraced education.
What motto, affirmation or prayer do you live by?
‘Strong minds and gentle hearts’, a very Marist motto. It is really a dichotomy as the heart and mind could be described as being opposed. A strong mind not only infers an academic bias, but also being strong minded enough to resist temptations and be disciplined. While being gentle of heart is not only kindness but following your heart with love as a guide.
What is the highlight of your career so far?
Being given the opportunity to serve the St Augustine’s community as Principal. I am honoured and humbled to have been welcomed into this role.
What’s the best thing about living and working in FNQ?
It’s the opportunities that Cairns has been able to provide for my family. Coming from a much larger city, and despite what many people believe, there are actually far greater opportunities in Cairns. A city large enough to provide great sporting, cultural and work opportunities, but not too large so as to be dwarfed by competing stresses, traffic and distractions. Plus, the weather is a bit warmer than in Canberra.
To find out more, go to St Augustine’s College, Cairns
