In this episode, Suzy chats with Sean Riordan & Susie Ahern.

Sean Riordan:

Deputy Headmaster - Head of Senior School and Student Wellbeing (P-12). Dip Teach (QUT), Grad Dip Bus Comm (QUT), MEd Leadership (ACU/BC)

Sean is a passionate educator who has held leadership roles across multiple sectors. Sean’s focus is on staff development, overseeing all elements of professional practice, including the College’s Partnership Coaching program, professional learning, performance planning and career development. Sean is further charged with making connections with organisations, such as higher education institutions, that can provide valuable opportunities for our staff and students. Sean enjoys teaching English, and Philosophy and Reason, as well as connecting with students through roles in boarding, rugby and tennis. Sean is committed to providing opportunities for Social Action, having recently led a group of students on an Indigenous Immersion experience to Cape York.

Susie Ahern: Director of Positive Education and Wellbeing

With almost 40 years in education, Susie has researched, designed, and culturally aligned a number of Pre-prep to Year 12 Positive Education programs that sit as purpose-built Pastoral Care and Wellbeing frameworks. The frameworks draw on science to enhance core components of wellbeing and aim to produce well-rounded and resilient individuals who are capable of thriving personally, academically, and professionally and, who are well-equipped to contribute to society in a satisfying and meaningful way.

Susie started her educational journey as a Physical Education teacher after completing her tertiary training at James Cook University in North Queensland. She went on to complete a several Positive Education trainings through the Institute of Positive Education; a Certificate in Positive Psychology (CiPP) under tutelage of Tal Ben-Shahar at the Whole-being Institute as well as completing a number of Certificates in Applied Positive Psychology through Positive Difference.

Susie has worked passionately, with a number of schools, both here and abroad, to enhance their understanding and appreciation of the language and psychological benefits of a culturally aligned wellbeing framework that encourage all members of an educational community to live a grateful and purposeful life.