New Staff Induction 2021!

On January 7th and 8th, 2020 we held our annual Staff Induction to welcome 50 new members to the Saints community of belonging. Although still in the middle of lock-down level 3, the College made sure all staff followed the Covid-19 health and safety protocols.

The 2 days induction was an opportunity for staff to meet new colleagues from different schools and departments. The first day started with staff receiving their welcome packs including a range of items, but of course the obligatory hand sanitizer. They then moved into the Chapel for a welcome message from the Head of Advancement, Mr. Alistair Stewart, who discussed the College’s strategic intent and the importance our people play in achieving this. This was followed with a presentation by Superintendent Chaplain, Rev Jenni Samdaan.

To help staff acclimatise to their new work environment, they then had a walk around the campus led by Mr. Alistair Stewart, who shared insightful history of the campus.  The walk about ended with a tea to meet and greet members of the College Executive and create an opportunity to connect with other new staff.  The balance of the induction included presentation from members from the various campus departments including a presentation on the College’s philosophy on learning support and inclusion.  Staff also got to hear from the College’s Director of Diversity and Transformation.

A number of the College staff services providers were also in attendance including our health and wellbeing partners, Kaelo, Interface and Mercer Marsh to share how staff can make use of their services for their personal needs.

During the induction we posted 3 questions to the new staff, and this is what they had to say:

Why have you chosen to work for Saints?

“It is an amazing opportunity to teach at such a leading and progressive school.”

“Want to be at the best educational institution possible - want to be challenged, stretched, and want to learn.”

“The Methodist ethos and personal and professional growth.”

“Opportunity for growth and mentorship”

 “The task and job description is challenging and allow opportunity for development.”

“Outreach. Opportunities. First permanent position.”

“Want to be a part of something great”

“Great opportunity to grow while making a real difference”

What are you most looking forward to in the first few weeks?

“Understanding the school ethos by heart”

“Hopefully feeling less anxious ”

“Being acquainted with the Saints ethos, culture and fellow colleagues.”

“Although I have been at Saints, I look forward to meeting new people, meeting the students, and growing in my career.”

“Collaborating with colleagues and planning in uncertain, but exciting times.”

“New atmosphere and bringing dynamic styles to the teaching environment”

“To learn and grow in the Saints family”

“Teaching an exciting new art history section to a new grade”

“Establishing relationships”

“Meeting all the wonderful new people and children”

What are you most nervous about as you start your journey with us?

“Getting to grips with the expectations and understanding the academic rigours”

“Not meeting the standards that I've set for myself”

“Balance between tradition and innovation/staying relevant”

“The start of something new”

“Getting lost between classes”

“The same things that I am looking forward to”

“Getting lost”

A warm welcome and good wishes on becoming part of the Saints family. Congratulations and we are all happy and excited about your inputs and contribution to the College.