AFTER jet-setting around the globe for many years, Alan Connah has settled in the South East as St Martins Lutheran College’s new principal.
Starting his teaching career in 1988 after graduating from university, Mr Connah spent time working in schools around New South Wales before heading overseas, taking up a position at an international school in Thailand.
Mr Connah then spent time working in Switzerland and England until he returned to Australia.
After years working in the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Northern Territory and Queensland, Mr Connah was again offered an overseas position, which saw him help open a brand new school in China through London’s Dulwich College.
In recent years, Mr Connah has been the principal of Kinabalu International School in Malaysia before ultimately deciding it was time to come home for good.
After spending many years working in busy cities around the world, Mr Connah knew he wanted to find a position somewhere in the country.
He then came across a position available in the Blue Lake city and thought it would be the perfect place to settle.
“I had been to Mount Gambier once before in my life and I really loved what I had seen,” Mr Connah said.
“You really learn to appreciate country life when you have lived in big cities like Suzhou, China. I was certain I wanted to get out of the hustle and bustle.
“The position at St Martins seemed like it could be a perfect fit and I was fortunate enough to win the position.”
Mr Connah’s wife, Julie, is also an educator and will take up a maternity-leave position at the college.
Although the country lifestyle was the original drawcard for Mr Connah, he was also attracted by the college’s Christian values.
“Education at St Martins is about the whole child,” he said.
“There is a big focus on catering for the individual needs of each child and accepting they learn differently and excel in multiple ways.
“I believe in teaching students at their own pace and making sure you focus on each of their needs.”
With his roots firmly settled in the Limestone Coast, Mr Connah now looks forward to checking out all that is on offer.
“I have heard there are many places to go walking and there are some great beaches in the region,” he said.
“I am looking forward to getting to know more of the local community and exploring the beauty of the Limestone Coast.”
