ST ANDREW’S Anglican College said goodbye to their longstanding Principal, Reverend Chris Ivey last week after 18 years of dedicated leadership at the Peregian Springs school.
The school which was founded in 2003 has had Mr Ivey at the helm since 2007– a feat that has seen his leadership woven into the very fabric of the school and the local community.
Mr Ivey spoke of his tenure at St Andrews fondly and that his long-term vision was to create a positive school environment.
“From my very first interactions, I was excited by the energy at St Andrews and my vision from day one was to make this an incredible school.
“It was young, growing, evolving and staff had what we called a ‘pioneering spirit’ and this excited me.
“Back then I was also nervous about moving from a small school to a larger and more complex organisation… but I was looking forward to a new challenge and a place to raise our family of four children.”
Mr Ivey reflected on how different the school landscape is now, compared to in 2007.
“I don’t think my vision has changed, but how we enact it, how we embody it and how we keep it has evolved. It is definitely a different place now than 2007 with many more programs, opportunities and buildings, but I think our commitment to community hasn’t changed.”
While the school itself has evolved dramatically during this time, including major builds such as the construction of a multi-level Learning Hub, Aquatic Centre and the planning of a Music and Performing Arts Centre due to break ground in 2025, Mr Ivey’s educational philosophy remains true.
“I still believe that relationships are core to all that we do – you can’t teach, encourage or have a difficult conversation with a student if you don’t have some form of relationship with them.
“Sure, the world has changed in 18 years and post-COVID we are seeing an increase in challenges regarding mental health and social media, but people still have a basic need to be known and respected.”
Known for his ‘front gate approach’ – greeting students and parents at the front of the school every morning, Chris has been celebrated by parents and the community for the way he leads by example in setting standards and creating culture.
Parent Tim McGary sang Mr Ivey’s praises.
“Mr Ivey has been a tireless worker in both public and private settings for the school. Whether that was working on a BBQ, raising money, watching a flute recital or trekking through the bush as part of the Kokoda Challenge, Mr Ivey has been there, for the school.”
As he prepares to pack up his family home and leave the place where his four children have grown and completed school, Mr Ivey remains humble about the legacy he has created and excited for his next chapter.
“My hope is very simple, that St Andrew’s continues to live out its vision, to stay true to that vision and to keep achieving great things while always respecting and encouraging people.
“We have gone from a small start-up school to an award-winning school, and I hope that my leadership has simply encouraged others to strive for and achieve great things. That is all I can hope for.”
In January, newly appointed Principal Karen Gorrie, will take over as the College’s third Principal. Ms Gorrie has worked in the education sector for more than 30 years and will be joining the school from St Margaret’s Anglican College in Brisbane, where she served as Deputy Principal for seven years.
Mr Ivey will be taking up a role as Headmaster of Somerset College on the Gold Coast.