Life is an adventure, and it’s time for some of our beloved staff to commence a new season of adventure!
While there is sadness at losing special people from our community, there is an excitement that we can hold for them.
Dora Kazamias has thoroughly enjoyed being the Library Specialist this year (covering Lisa Maiden), so much so that she has enrolled in further study in this area. She is also looking forward to spending more time with her mother and family.
In Dora’s words…
‘This decision was not made lightly, as I have greatly valued my time at Prep and the wonderful staff that I have been privileged to work with over the years. The experience has been both rewarding and formative, allowing me to grow as an educator and contribute to the School community. As you are aware, I have absolutely loved my time in the library this year, and the opportunity to work collaboratively with all grades. This led me to enrol in the Master of Information Studies to deepen my knowledge and skills. This opportunity aligns with my long-term professional goals and will enable me to bring even greater value to my teaching in the future. While I am excited about this new chapter, I would love to maintain a connection with Mosman Prep as a casual teacher. I am truly grateful for the relationships I’ve built with colleagues, students, and the wider school community over the years and will look back fondly on my time at Prep.’
Dora has immersed herself in the life of the School, as a vibrant, thoughtful, highly competent, and positive teacher and sports manager, along with her many other hats. She has done a truly outstanding job as Librarian this year, and will be sorely missed by our community. (Dora is looking forward to casual teaching at Mosman Prep next year).
Chris O’Loan relocated to the Central Coast a couple of years ago, moving to a part time capacity at Mosman Prep at that time. He is now ready to spend more time with his family and exploring his new community and surroundings.
In Chris’ words…
‘It is with much sadness and trepidatious excitement that I tender my resignation. After 43 years of teaching (7 at Mosman Prep), I feel it is time to consider a new chapter in my life, including being more available to my family. I very much look forward to exploring this intoxicating new world and the challenges it will bring. The Prep holds a very special and meaningful place in my heart. Authentic, friendship, considerate, complex, intricate, and inspirational are some of the words that ring true to my experiences of being a teacher at the School for the past 7 years. Mosman Prep epitomises the saying, "It's the teacher that makes the difference." The Prep is a place where great things happen. I would like to acknowledge how discerning you are and take the opportunity to thank you for the warmth, graciousness, energy, strength, and time you provide as Headmaster. I will miss this vibrant place.’
Chris has been a very faithful, passionate, and highly competent teacher and sports coach/manager. He will be missed greatly by our community! (Chris will be back for casual teaching as is manageable for him.)
Nicola Bray is off on a particularly exciting adventure, as she relocates to the Gold Coast with her fiancé.
In Nicola’s words…
’It's truly a bittersweet moment - while I'm excited for Ben and me to start this new chapter, it's hard to imagine not being a part of the wonderful Mosman Prep community.
I have absolutely loved my time here, and I'm so grateful for the opportunities I've had to grow as an educator. Working with inquisitive, playful, and enthusiastic Kindy and Junior Primary students (whose boundless energy I can't help but love), alongside the amazing staffing team, and being involved in school sport and enrichment, has been an absolute joy. It has been such a privilege to be a part of this caring, vibrant community of students, staff and families.
As much as I'm excited for the new chapter ahead on the Gold Coast, I know I will deeply miss the warmth, camaraderie, and sense of community that make Mosman Prep so special. Your leadership and the School's values have been instrumental in shaping my professional journey, and I can only hope to find a school in Queensland that embodies the same dedication to excellence and community spirit.
Thank you again for all the support and opportunities you have provided throughout my time at Mosman Prep. I'm excited to make the most of our remaining time together this year, celebrating our students' achievements and learning, along with all our exciting festive events.
Nicola's warmth, energy, professionalism, competence, and collegiality have endeared her to boys, parents and staff. She is a very special educator who will be missed deeply.
Caitlin Hayman came to Prep this year from Tudor House where she held an executive position (in fact she returned to Prep, having previously been a teacher at the School). In many ways we have been blessed to be a stepping stone for Caitlin as she returns to an executive position, that being one of the Deputy Heads at Kincoppal-Rose Bay.
In Caitlin’s words…
‘I feel both excitement and sadness as I prepare to leave. This year has been an extraordinary experience—a true gift. Returning to the classroom has been invigorating, and working with the boys has been a joy. The staff have been exceptional; I have felt warmly welcomed and supported every step of the way. The Stage Two team is a remarkable group, characterised by professionalism, positivity, and an infectious sense of humor. I will miss them dearly, especially our lively morning laughter as we navigate our roles together. Alex has been a tremendous leader, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with her. She is an exceptional role model, and I have learned a great deal from her this year. Pete, I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity you have given me. This experience has made me a stronger and more passionate educator. Thank you.’
Caitlin is an outstanding educator in every sense. She has made quite an impression in just one year, and will be deeply missed.
We will have an opportunity to farewell these special educators over the coming two weeks.
Peter Grimes | Headmaster
