Welcome to Mr Luke Adams, our new Head of Senior School.
A warm and authentic educator, Mr Adams believes that students achieve their personal best when they feel deeply known, valued and safe. He fosters a relational culture that balances positive regard with high expectations.
Having entered teaching because of the profound impact of a Year Coordinator on his life, Mr Adams’ goal is to help young people navigate challenges, discover their strengths, and achieve their potential, just as that teacher did for him.
“One caring adult can make a huge difference in a student’s life,” he said. “It inspired me to pursue teaching and has shaped the way I approach my role in education. I want to create the same sense of connection, support, and encouragement for students.”
Depth of Experience
Mr Adams comes to us from St Philip’s Christian College, Cessnock, in the Hunter Valley, where he has been the Director of Studies – Senior School. He brings experience in strategic and collaborative educational leadership, developing learning frameworks and ensuring that educational vision remains future-focused and evidence-informed.
Currently completing a Master of Education (Educational Leadership), Mr Adams holds a Bachelor of PDHPE/Bachelor of Education and NSW Certificate of Religious Education. He was a finalist in the 2021 Australian Education Awards Department Head of the Year, and recipient of the 2021 Professional Teachers Council Outstanding Professional Service Award.
Fostering a Culture of Care
A self-confessed ‘sports tragic’, expect to see Mr Adams on the sporting field, as well as at the school gate. “The strongest relationships are built through everyday interactions, and the healthiest and most thriving school communities are those where every individual feels seen, known, valued and loved,” he said.
Mr Adams is deeply influenced by the example of Jesus, who he says led with both truth and grace.
“He showed remarkable love and compassion for people while also challenging them to grow and become the best version of themselves. This balance is essential in education,” he said.
Mr Adams’ desire is to create environments where individuals feel safe to take risks, where mistakes become opportunities for growth, and where relationships remain at the centre.
“Young people need high expectations, but they also need to know that they are valued beyond their achievements, mistakes, or circumstances.”
Faith in Action
Mr Adams has strong convictions about the role that faith, relationships and care play in shaping culture. One of the most formative experiences in his career was leading a school-based Walkathon that raised more than $200,000 for Children’s Mission.
“The project enabled the construction of a school in Zambia, and I was fortunate enough to attend its opening. Seeing students make such a meaningful impact on the lives of children they would never meet reinforced my belief that faith is most powerful when expressed through action, compassion, and service to others.”
Looking Ahead
Mr Adams took up his role as Head of Senior School in Term 3. We are excited to see how he will help leverage a vibrant Senior School culture shaped by a sense of compassion, respect, hope and purpose.