When I reflect on my career as an educator and leader in schools, I’m reminded of a moment that seemed simple at the time, where I taught children how to ride horses during my final years of high school. I had taken on the job to earn some extra pocket money, but I quickly became fascinated by how each child learned so differently. The same skill often required a different explanation depending on the learner. From there, I became deeply curious about how people learn, and how we as educators can respond to individual needs while guiding all children to flourish and thrive. This curiosity became the foundation of my master’s study and continues to shape my thinking and practice today.

Teaching is one of the most purposeful roles I can imagine. It is a profession where you get to make a tangible difference every day either to a child’s confidence, their sense of belonging, or their understanding of the world. As a leader, I’ve come to learn that the most powerful growth often comes from moments of uncertainty and challenge. Learning from our mistakes is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile. My commitment to education is grounded in inclusion and the belief that every child can thrive in a community where learning is visible, voices are valued, and thinking is at its centre.

I’m especially passionate about the power of girls’ education. A girls’ school creates a unique space where girls are free to take risks, lead and challenge themselves without limitation. Since arriving at Ivanhoe Girls’, I’ve felt the strength of a community that truly lives its values. It’s a place where students of all ages learn alongside and from each other, building a culture of respect, encouragement and joy.

From the paddocks where I first taught children to ride, to leading in schools today, my journey has always been driven by a deep respect for the way children learn and thrive.

If I could offer my younger self one piece of advice, it would be to slow down and notice the beauty and wonder in the everyday moments.

Mrs Lisa Miller
Head of Junior School