Ms Samantha Basford, Head of Year 7

How long have you worked at St Catherine’s?  

Originally commencing in 2007 and then returning in 2014 after six years in Girls Sport Victoria education.    

What is your current role (2024) at St Catherine’s?  

Head of Year 7   

Tell us a little bit about your role?  

As the Head of Year 7 at St Catherine’s in 2024, I cannot overstate the significance of this year for our students. We have the responsibility to nurture and guide 78 young individuals as they embark on this exciting stage of their educational journey.  

Year 7 marks the transition into secondary school, a period that shapes their attitudes, habits, and perceptions of their academic path ahead.  

This year lays the foundation for their secondary education. It’s where they establish essential study skills, develop relationships with peers and teachers, and begin to explore their interests and strengths.   

Our role is not only to educate them academically but also to support their overall wellbeing, ensuring they feel safe, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential.   

Have you held previous roles with St Catherine’s? If so, can you please share?  

Alongside many members of the Wellbeing Team, I have actively supported and participated in various aspects of professional practice. This includes coordinating events such as the Diversity Dash and student Wellbeing Days, as well as serving on sub-committees focused on child-safe practices and mental health and wellbeing programs.    

What is your career background including qualifications?  

With 20 years’ experience in education, I have attained three degrees: a Bachelor’s degree in Human Movement/Sports Science, a Graduate Certificate in Education, and a Graduate Certificate in Career Development Practice.  

I am committed to continuous learning and professional development, often undertaking additional courses while balancing part-time work and family responsibilities.   

What influenced your decision to pursue the career you have?  

My lifelong passion for helping others learn and grow led me to become a teacher. I found joy in assisting others and volunteering from a young age.   

As I advanced through my education, I saw the transformative power of teaching to uplift individuals and communities. Guided by mentors who believed in every student’s potential, I knew teaching would bring me immense joy and fulfilment.   

What does a typical day at School look like for you?  

Is there such a thing as a typical day in 2024? Hopefully not! A day in Year 7 is always busy, with students seeking guidance, support, and encouragement.   

I aim to dedicate time to mindfully listening, giving my unwavering attention, and, most importantly, my energy to the Cohort of 2029.  

I cherished every opportunity during the orientation days last year to learn about each family’s background and can’t wait to create memories with them on their St Catherine’s Journey. We have already shared so much together with the first days of school, Year 7 Orientation Camp and the Induction Service on Tuesday night.   

What has been a highlight for you during your time at St Catherine’s?  

I have shared many incredible memories at St Catherine’s with dedicated colleagues. I continue to feel supported, encouraged and most importantly included in the fabric of the blue ribbon. The people and their stories will forever be my highlight.    

What strengths do you believe St Catherine’s has as a school?  

As a teacher from Year 5 to the graduates of the secondary school I feel blessed to know the students of St Catherine’s. Working across the campuses is incredibly rewarding, as I witness the full journey from Barbreck to their final days walking through the Heyington Gates as graduates. 

  What do you believe is the biggest reward from your role?  

Supporting students to maximise their experience at St Catherine’s on a day-to-day basis will be profoundly rewarding for me. Our School boasts an array of academic and co-curricular programs, offers students access to global experiences, and fosters inclusivity and involvement. I am particularly eager to provide students with comprehensive exposure to our programs and to support them throughout their educational journey.