Old Concordians’ Connect

What motivated you to join the OCA Committee?

I saw the OCA Committee as an awesome opportunity to stay in contact with students, staff and the community. As members of the OCA Committee, we’re in a unique position to maintain close ties between Old Concordians and the College through sporting clubs, wellbeing programs and events where we can hear from guest speakers, gain access to important resources and develop important skills necessary as we step into adult life.

What is great about being an Old Concordian?

As a Concordia graduate, we have an important sense of self and a quiet confidence that enables us to pursue our aspirations, exceed our own expectations and reach our own definitions of success. To me, that is such an important part of life and something we should always try to embrace. Sharing these experiences with Concordia and continuing to represent the College after graduating is an important part of being an Old Concordian and something I’ll always be proud of.

Where has life taken you since leaving Concordia College and what are your plans for the future?

I’m currently in my second year of studying a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Secondary Teaching at Flinders University. I’m keen to get some valuable experience overseas and would love the opportunity to teach in the UK and complete some further study before returning to Concordia and eventually working my way up to a leadership position at the College in years to come.

What advice would you give graduating students?

Do what you love. Pursue something that you believe allows you to make a difference in the lives of others and just throw yourself out there. Embrace every opportunity you can, take on challenges, work hard, enjoy the journey and dream big.

Janette has recently retired after a long career at St John’s Lutheran School/St John's Campus, firstly as a classroom teacher and then as special education teacher. Janette is a second generation Concordian and her two children also attended St John’s and Concordia. We asked Janette to reflect on her time at Concordia and St John’s.

What is different today from when you were at school?

When I attended school, learning was often textbook based with lots of pencil and paper tasks. There was little interaction or opportunity to question and when you passed the final exam your education was finished.

The inquiry approach to learning today has made education so much more exciting, relevant and meaningful. Students are active learners and are encouraged to think, collaborate, question, seek answers and understand different perspectives. Students are far more open-minded and see learning as a life-long quality.

What is your funniest and fondest memory of being at Concordia College?

I often wished that I had written down the children’s mispronunciations, misspellings and missing punctuation that innocently altered their intent and induced a chuckle. However, witnessing the ‘ah ha’ moments when a child reached understanding, made a connection, solved a problem and asked the next question in their thinking process was priceless and I adored witnessing their expressions of success.

What makes St John’s and Concordia so special?

I have had the pleasure of working with the most amazing staff at St John’s Campus over the years. Jesus’ love shines through and their servant hearts inspire them to go above and beyond. While their professionalism enables them to deliver quality education, their capacity to show genuine understanding of and care for each child is extraordinary and creates a very special community.

What advice would you offer to current students?

Challenge yourself to reach your personal best in all that you do. Start small and identify specific aspects to develop in each interaction, task or activity. You will always have something to feel proud of.

What motivates and inspires you?

I have always had the desire to help children feel confident and hopeful. Each child has their own circumstances and needs. Helping them find their strengths and develop strategies to experience success builds hope. Jesus has always been my ultimate inspiration and given me a heart for those who are struggling.