This week we are introducing you to Mr Brett Thomson, our Welfare Officer.
Tell us a bit about yourself - your background, experience, when did you start at ACC and what is your role?
I was a Geotechnician for six years and a Police Officer for 13 years, working in various roles and units. I was involved in leading youth ministry at my local church for a decade during my late teens and early 20's and am currently involved in a number of ministries at my current church. I hold a Diploma in Theology and a Bachelor of Policing. I live in the Blue Mountains with my wife Leila and two boys, Isaac (aged 9) and Elijah (aged 6). I started at ACC in January of this year as the Welfare Officer.
What do you love about your job?
The opportunity to develop relationships with students over an extended period of time is something I didn't have as a Police Officer. While all of my relationships with students are only in their infancy at present, I love the fact that I have an opportunity to spend years developing these relationships. I love being able to provide guidance and direction to students who might be struggling to cope with issues relating to friends, family, school or internal struggles. I am also a believer that there is freedom in having boundaries placed around us. Students will thrive and have an opportunity to get the best out of themselves when they have healthy boundaries around them that are maintained.
What does a typical day look like for you, and what is coming up that you are looking forward to?
A typical day for me involves supervising students during detentions as well as spending time welcoming and connecting with students out the front of the College both before and after school. I will usually have incidents to investigate in relation to conflicts between students where I will obtain statements, interview students and help with resolutions. I also assist with the orderly environment of the school, attend meetings, mentor students and help out in numerous other areas wherever my past experience can provide value. I am looking forward to the next school camp which will be for Year 7 as camps are such great opportunities to build relationships with both students and staff.