Meet New Head of Middle School, Lauren Connolly

Lauren was drawn to teaching from a young age. “Being from a large family, I was attracted to teaching and all that comes with it. I’m passionate about working alongside young people and their families,” she said.

As a graduate teacher, Lauren spent a year working in Port Augusta before returning to teach at Trinity College in Northern Adelaide. She soon progressed from classroom teacher to Head of House.

“I loved being Head of House because it gave me a chance to really get to know the children. I was the person they’d come to for support and I was there to celebrate their growth and achievements with them every step of the way” she said.

Lauren naturally gravitated to the ‘Middle Years’ and was appointed Head of Middle School at Trinity College in 2010.

“The middle school years is such a vital part of a child’s development. It’s a time of complex social and emotional growth. We know that adolescence is a very tricky time, so we need to provide additional layers of support tailored to their needs and behaviours to ensure they can continue to flourish academically and socially”.

Lauren said student agency is central to children’s sense of belonging when transitioning between sub-schools.

“Working closely and positively with Junior and Senior School students and staff is important to ensure transitions between schools are as comfortable as possible.

“At Trinity, I developed the transition timeline for Year 7 students entering our Middle School that uses student feedback and experience, so they feel empowered and excited about the move”.

Lauren’s compassionate nature and willingness to influence positive change are strengths she will bring to her new role.

“I’m so passionate about working with children, it is my absolute joy. One of my strengths is just being a really nurturing person, and making decisions with grounded perspectives to ensure that we get the best outcomes for every child.”

Additionally, Lauren’s approach to governance is about contributing to the greater good.

“Ultimately for me, leadership is about having a presence and making a difference for the better. It is about working as part of a small team but focussing on the bigger picture,” she said.

Pulteney’s strategic direction is aligned with Lauren’s personal teaching values.

“I am very excited to be coming to Pulteney. The School’s strategic plan and individualised approach to learning is strongly aligned to my own educational beliefs. Pulteney has an excellent reputation for being a forward thinking, innovative school and I am looking forward to being a part of it.”

Lauren commenced as Head of Middle School in Term 1, 2024.