James Rees: Acting Coordinator of O’Donnell House

James Rees will be taking on the position of O’Donnell House Coordinator in Semester 2. He is replacing Benjamin Court who will be travelling with his young family. 

James answered a few questions for us this week as he prepares for his new role.

1. What was your career path leading up to this role?

Prior to working in education, I spent some time working in accounting. I had the opportunity to experience a number of different areas of business including government, small business, large firm and agriculture. I then moved into teaching as it had always been something I wanted to pursue, right from when I was in Year 10 at school. I then accepted my first teaching job at Santa Maria College three and a half years ago and was lucky enough to be placed in O’Donnell, which has now led to the opportunity of being the House Coordinator of O’Donnell for Semester 2.

2. What are you looking forward to in your new role?

I am really looking forward to having the opportunity to work with all year groups within the House. I have had such an enjoyable time with my Year 10 homeroom since they first started, so having the opportunity to engage with more students across the years is exciting.

3. Do you have a particular area of passion in education?

I have always been passionate about being involved in change in the way we deliver curriculum to our students. With the impact of technology becoming more prominent in schools, I think we need to continue to find effective ways to use that technology. Having been involved with the implementation of Mathematics Pathway in Year 7, I have been able to see firsthand the power technology can have.

4. What is your favourite thing about Santa Maria?

Working with the range of incredible teachers at Santa Maria every day is an enjoyable experience along with students who are eager to learn each day.

5. What is something most people wouldn’t know about you?

Growing up as a kid I was involved in offshore yacht racing. I competed in my first overnight race as a 12-year-old, a race to Bunbury and return. I then completed my first race from Perth to Geraldton as a 13-year-old.