LEADERSHIP REFLECTIONS

SIMON LE PLASTRIER'S TENURE AS PRINCIPAL

As Simon Le Plastrier farewells ELTHAM College after 10 years as Principal, ELTHAM College Executive reflect on Simon's impact.

“What stands out to me about Simon is his unwavering dedication to education, decency and respect for people, and his belief and positivity in the ability of the young people we work with, regardless of their areas of passion.

Simon also instilled the importance of tradition and ceremony to ELTHAM College. Key school events such as the ANZAC assembly, the leaders BBQs, the 30-second speeches at the final Year 12 assembly, the student talent assembly, and of course, piping out the Year 9 students as they embark on a year of independence, are all significant traditions that Simon will leave as lasting legacies.”

Lesley Moulin, Director, Senior School

“I’ve worked with Simon for more than 20 years at two different schools, and my abiding feeling about him and his work as a career educator centres on his tireless pursuit of students realising their potential – whatever that looks like. Simon has always advocated for students, personally investing in individual enthusiasm, and supporting student passions whatever form they take. I’m excited and relieved that he will continue to pursue his advocacy of young people through his work at CSE (Centre for Strategic Education) in the years to come. Go well Simon!”

Rob Flavell, Head of Critical Thinking

“Simon has brought academic rigour to the College. He is a superb educator who understands students and how they learn. He pushes students by creating a challenging classroom environment which is at the same time a safe space in which students can take risks, make mistakes and learn from them. He asks open-ended questions and encourages students to formulate their own questions and go in directions that interest them. Many students benefitted from Simon’s Year 10 Beginner’s Guide to Ideas elective – they say it was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences they’ve had in their learning journey, that set them up for future academic success.”

Helen Lucas, Director, Curriculum

“‘Good people’ – it was a simple but nuanced answer to a question asked by a prospective family at an ELTHAM in Action school tour with the newly appointed Principal, Simon Le Plastrier. The question was about the qualities and attributes Simon wanted ELTHAM students to graduate with. These two words have stuck with me since I first heard him say them 10 years ago – a simple and admirable aspiration that beautifully describes who Simon is, and the humility and resolute humanity that drives him to be the outstanding educator that he is.”

Mike Brennin, Deputy Principal

“With his favourite word being ‘why?,’ Simon encourages others to challenge the status quo, in his quest to bring about the best in everyone. Giving generously of his time and wisdom, he has succeeded in creating a foundation for young people to take on their own ‘daring adventure’ to be anything they want to be. He fosters this in his colleagues also. He is a loyal and supportive leader, and his cheeky sense of humour and love of storytelling has made working with him a pleasure.”

Rebecca Millar, Director, People and Culture

“From an education and learning perspective, Simon’s legacy will be bringing a ‘rifle point focus’ to the goal of getting young people to learn how to think so they become critical thinkers who can solve complex problems. He also encouraged our young people to see learning as a journey, not a destination, encouraging them to be curious and embrace the many varied opportunities they are fortunate to have at ELTHAM College, and to take some risks and explore what’s possible.”

Stuart Wenn, Director, Business

and Operations

“Simon is very knowledgeable and is generous in sharing his wisdom with others. His focus is always student-centred, offering gentle guidance so that students can achieve their goals. Simon sees the positive in our efforts as a greater community – as a staff member, I appreciate Simon’s respect of our knowledge and expertise in our fields. His trust of me leading the ELC and Junior School and support are much appreciated.”

Eleni Goulas, Director, ELC and Junior School