In this episode, Suzy chats with Toni Kirton & Sue Walduck.

Toni Kirton: Director of Positive Education and Leadership

Toni Kirton is the Director of Positive Education and Leadership at A.B. Paterson College, an Independent School on the northern end of the Gold Coast. Toni is responsible for the development of Positive Education, Service Learning, Student Leadership, Staff Wellness and Community Engagement across the Prep to Year 12 campus of the College. The Director of Positive Education and Leadership works closely with the Director of Teaching, Learning and Innovation and the Director of Teacher Development and Effectiveness to ensure the seamless integration of the principles of positive psychology with our teaching and learning practices underpinned by the work of Harvard Graduate School of Education, John Hattie and Robert Marzano.

Toni commenced at A.B Paterson College in 2014 as the Career and Guidance Counsellor. She has held various positions in both State and Independent schools including Year Level Co-ordinator, Student Advisor and School Counsellor. Toni considers herself a lifelong learner, which is evidenced by her commitment to her professional development, having completed a Master of Education, majoring in Educational Leadership, and a Master of Educational Studies, majoring in Guidance and Counselling.

Sue Walduck: Director of Teacher Development and Effectiveness

The Director of Teacher Development and Effectiveness is responsible for the induction of all new teachers at A.B. Paterson College ensuring their understanding of the Teaching for Understanding framework and their UEH (Understanding, Effect and Humanity) coaching program. In addition, Sue works with teachers new to educating in Queensland, with their submission of a portfolio for full registration with the Queensland College of Teachers.

Sue joined A.B. Paterson College most recently in 2020 during the online learning period when most students were working from home. She was however very familiar with the A.B Community as she had worked there from 2001 to 2007 and then again in 2011. Sue has held various positions, inclusive of: Head of House, Head of Faculty, Coordinator of International Programs and the Director of Staff in Independent Schools throughout Queensland.

Sue has a strong passion for people and culture evidenced through completed Masters level studies in Human Resources.