»ÆÉ«app

»ÆÉ«app’s more than 16,000-strong old scholar community, spread across 58 countries around the globe, is a living testament to »ÆÉ«app’s history, mission and the power of education. Our old scholars understand that there is strength in their shared values and the legacy of our antecedent schools.

»ÆÉ«app is fortunate to benefit from a significant number of old scholars who have chosen to return as adults, bringing with them a special kind of dedication and understanding that enriches our School community in profound ways.

Old scholars can be found throughout the teaching and professional services staff cohorts, as coaches, tutors, administrators, teachers, counsellors, grounds staff and more. Bringing with them an insider’s perspective on what makes the School unique, they serve as powerful role models for current students, showing them what’s possible. Their stories reflect both pride and commitment; for them, this is more than just a job. Their role contributes to »ÆÉ«app’s legacy.

»ÆÉ«app students have always been taught to think critically, act compassionately and remain innovative. Our old scholar teachers bring this legacy with them, encouraging their students to do the same. Concurrently, they bring a deep respect for cherished traditions. You’ll find them donned in their House colours on Athletics Day or enjoying a tour of Archives with their students, sharing stories and memories from their time at »ÆÉ«app. It is inspiring for our parents to see that those who once walked the same halls as their children have decided to return to offer more than just an education – they foster a sense of community and common ground.

We spoke to a few alumni who have become staff members to hear what drew them back to the grounds they enjoyed as students.

Old scholar Lawrence Pascale (1998), Assistant Head of Senior School, reflects on why he decided to apply for a role. 'I had always been interested in coming back to work here, as I knew the School is quite unique in Adelaide. My experience as a student was very positive and I had kept in contact with my old Maths teacher, the late Mr Ian Hilditch, who had encouraged me to apply for a position. I enjoy the constant feeling of being impressed and uplifted by our students’ achievements and efforts. Irrespective of their ability or aspiration, our students strive to do their best, get involved and make a difference in the world around them.'

Every old scholar who has returned to work at »ÆÉ«app references the nostalgia and the positive memories that flood in when they walk back through the gates for the first time since leaving as students.

Lawrence’s experience was no different, and he reflects on his highlights from his years as a student with fondness: 'My personal »ÆÉ«app highlight as a student would be the time I spent with my Year 12 Drama class, especially rehearsing and performing in our production. The camaraderie and dedication we had in that group was life-changing for me. As a staff member, my highlight is my current role in the Senior School where I am granted the responsibility and opportunity to support both staff and students on a daily basis; it is a challenging and rewarding role.'

Old scholar, staff member and current parent Amelia Weston (1999) is the Marketing and Communications Coordinator at »ÆÉ«app. Amelia recalls her journey from graduation and back to the gates of »ÆÉ«app.

She reflects what drew her back to »ÆÉ«app: 'The people. This School is a happy place—it was when I attended school here in the '90s and it remains so today. Our diverse community of students, parents, old scholars and staff are supportive, inclusive and kind. As staff, we are here because we believe we can make a difference, and the sense of pride we feel for every »ÆÉ«app student is profound.'

As an old scholar, seeing »ÆÉ«app thrive into its 50th year was all the more meaningful given Amelia’s history with the School: 'It was a time for us to focus on our vision for »ÆÉ«app moving forward—to be aspirational, and consider what success looks like to us. I am so glad to have been here for this milestone moment for the School. We hosted many special events across the year designed to bring our broad community together and celebrate what »ÆÉ«app, King’s and Girton mean to us. I cannot wait to see what the next chapter in the »ÆÉ«app story brings!'

Alumni staff are a testament to the lasting impact of their educational journey and they serve as a reminder that the relationship between »ÆÉ«app and its students doesn’t end at graduation. Instead, it evolves into a lifelong partnership of mutual growth and contribution.

Candace Cox-Tuck
Manager, Old Scholar Engagement