Where are they now – Nick Kendell (SPC 1981-82)

The College recently reconnected with Nick Kendell (SPC 1981-82) who has enjoyed an incredible career in teaching, which has taken him and his family across the globe to Hong Kong and Egypt and now back in Australia as owner/director of the world’s largest international teacher recruitment company. Nick recalls some of his fondest memories of boarding life, singing the War Cry and how study does pay dividends.

 

Where has life taken you since leaving SPC?
When I finished school, I began studying at ACU to become a teacher and then went on to teach in Catholic primary schools in Victoria for seven years. I married my beautiful wife Paula (also a teacher) and we moved to Hong Kong and taught there for 10 years. We had two children while living in Hong Kong. I then moved to Tasmania and became a Principal at Scotch Oakburn College in Launceston and then moved to Egypt to become a Head of School at a British International School in Cairo. I then moved back to Tassie and became the Owner/Director of Search Associates. We are currently the world’s largest International teacher recruitment company.

 

Do you have family ties with SPC?
No family ties.

What are your fondest memories of your time at St Patrick’s College?
My time in the boarding house and the comradery with my peers. Also being a part of school football, cricket, rowing athletics and swimming teams.

War Cry’s were also a highlight and I wish the lads of today could get the words right when they chant.

 

Which teacher from your time at SPC had the greatest impact on you? Why?
I would say Br Bob Aron as my housemaster at Kenny House. His sage advice and ability to relate to students on a personal level was tremendous.

 

How has your education shaped your professional life?
As you can see, I have remained in education myself so there must have been some connection to my school life.

 

How has your time at SPC shaped your personal values and your family life?
I think the values and ethos of a school like St Pat’s helped shape the teacher I became, the parent I am and the husband I am.

If you could pass on one message to the students of today, what would it be?
Value the traditions, celebrate the present and cherish your friends. Would also pay to do some study while you are there as my mistake in not doing this meant I failed Year 12.