The College recently reconnected with Steven Trotter (SPC 1996-2001) who, after years in education leadership, has shifted his focus to helping other leaders to learn how to embrace challenge and enjoy the journey of leading improvement. Steven has recently written a book which is a culmination of his 15 years in senior leadership positions in education.
Where has life taken you since leaving SPC?
Since graduating SPC in 2001, I completed my Bachelor of Education at ACU Ballarat and began my teaching career at South Geelong Primary School. After several years there, I had the privilege of supporting the establishment two new Department of Education schools, first as Campus Assistant Principal in the Latrobe Valley and then as Sub-School Principal in the Western Suburbs. Since then, I’ve served as Principal at three additional schools and now lead a wonderful community in Geelong West. Along the way, I have served as an Executive Chair to two School Principal Professional Networks, one in Central Highlands and the other in the Barwon areas.
I was awarded an Australian Council for Education Leaders (ACEL) scholarship as ‘New Voice in Educational Leadership’ 2024. I co-authored three educational resource texts between 2007 and 2010 and, more recently, authored a leadership book, The Art of Skimming Stones: Leading Sustained Improvement in Schools release in mid-2024. Which is a culmination of my 15 years in senior leadership positions in education.
Shifting the spotlight on leading improvement from something that can cause stress and overwhelm, to a process where leaders can embrace challenge and enjoy the journey of leading improvement.
Do you have family ties with SPC?
Yes, my uncle Graham Duff (SPC 1956-59) was an Old Boy well before my time at SPC.
What are your fondest memories of your time at St Patrick’s College?
Many of my closest friendships today began during my years at St Pat’s. These mates and I have stood by each other as groomsmen at our weddings and celebrated building our families together.
Which teacher from your time at SPC had the greatest impact on you? Why?
Howard Clark. He moved from St Francis Xavier, my primary school, the same year I started Year 7 at St Pat’s. I always admired Howard’s firm but fair approach to teaching – he built strong relationships with his students while maintaining high expectations. He was someone I looked up to and emulated in my early teaching career.
How has your education shaped your professional life?
I hold education in the highest regard. My time at SPC offered me a wealth of opportunities to explore diverse extracurricular activities that complemented my classroom learning. I participated in the Stage and Concert Bands, enjoyed several team sports, and served as House Captain in Year 12. Many of the skills, opportunities, and friendships I treasure from my time at SPC were forged outside the classroom through these varied experiences.
How has your time at SPC shaped your personal values and your family life?
St Patrick’s instilled in me a deep appreciation for community, resilience, respect and mateship. These values have guided my approach to both my personal and professional life. My commitment to fostering a supportive, values-driven environment at home and in my leadership, roles is something I attribute to my formative years at SPC. Although many of these values were in their infancy, at SPC, they have definitely provided guidance as I have grown both professionally and personally.
If you could pass on one message to the students of today, what would it be?
Embrace every opportunity that comes your way – both in and out of the classroom. The skills, relationships, and memories you build during your time at school can have a big impact in shaping the person you become. Success is not just about individual achievements but also about the positive impact you have on those around you.
