Head of Service Learning, Mr Huw Blood, of Sydney Church of England Grammar School (Shore), was honoured with the ACEL NSW Leadership Award on Friday, 23 August 2024, at the NSW Department of Education.
The ACEL NSW Individual Leadership Award is presented annually to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding performance in leading an educational initiative or organisation, resulting in significant growth and positive cultural change.
This esteemed award recognises Blood’s exceptional commitment to instilling a culture of service and civic responsibility among Shore students, a programme that has thrived under his leadership.
Under Blood’s direction, Shore’s Service Learning programme has transformed into a cornerstone of the student experience, fostering meaningful engagement with the broader community.
His approach encourages students to not only learn about societal needs but to actively participate in addressing them, leading to personal growth and an enduring impact on the community.
“Huw’s leadership in embedding service as a fundamental part of our students’ education truly helps shape young characters. This award is a testament to his tireless work and his belief that service is not just an addition but central to a well-rounded education” Headmaster Dr John Collier said.
When asked about the philosophy that underpins his approach to education, and the approach he’s taken to build the school’s culture, Blood said the keys have been to develop rapport, respect, and relationships with students, fellow staff, and the community more broadly.
“With established, positive and trusted relationships, educational institutions thrive,” Blood told The Educator.
“Through enabling service partnerships with charities, non-government organisations, and community groups, the Shore Community has opportunities to develop and foster positive internal and external relationships while amplifying and assisting great causes amongst the community.”
Blood said the most significant outcomes he’s seen at the School as the result of Shore’s Service Learning programme include students “developing an outward focus to serve others as part of the Christian message of the School.”
“Furthermore, students have developed social and emotional skills, promoted positive masculinity traits such as empathy and compassion, and improved their own sense of wellbeing,” he said.
“Through service engagement, boys have opportunities to belong, be connected and enjoy mutually beneficial partnerships within the greater Sydney community.”