Step Up: A Training Course for Middle Leaders

Your Host: Dr Maria Varlet, EO VIC/TAS

Dr Maria Varlet has been involved in Christian Education for over 30 years, holding a variety of leadership positions including Head of Research & Innovation and Campus Principal. She has served on a number of Boards including as Deputy Chair of the CSA National Council. Maria has completed extensive formal study including a doctoral thesis which contributes insights into how Christian schools might utilise professional learning strategies to address tensions between ethos and assessment practices. As the Executive Officer, VIC/TAS, Maria is looking after the portfolio of Professional Learning. She is passionate about promoting and developing exemplary education practice, challenging the status quo and equipping and inspiring others. Her professional interests include teacher professional learning, leadership development and school improvement.

Dr Darren Iselin: Director of Research & Innovation

Darren has extensive leadership experience within Christian education in both Australian and international contexts and has served in a wide range of CEO/executive and senior leadership roles within both K-12 schooling and higher education sectors. He is currently Director of Research and Innovation with Christian Schools Australia (CSA) and also is the Coordinator for the Cardus Education Survey Australia Project.

Darren has completed extensive formal study, including doctoral studies through the University of Queensland where his PhD explored “How Principals are cultivating Sustainable School Cultures Within Christian Schools During Changing Times”. Darren’s thesis was awarded the Grassie-Basset prize for best thesis in Educational Administration from The University of Queensland and also won the Research in Educational Leadership Management Award from the Australian Council of Educational Leaders (ACEL).

Dr Daniel Pampuch: CEO

 Daniel has over 25 years’ experience in Christian Education. His role spans political advocacy, governance, strategic planning, resource development and service provision. His role centres on assisting schools to retain their Christian distinctive and missional focus, as well as guiding them on pathways to further maturity as ministries and centres of educational excellence. Daniel has served on a range of state and national educational boards and committees. Currently, he serves on the Global council of ACSI which supports 24,000 schools globally. Daniel has fellowships with the Governance Institute of Australia and Australian Institute of Management. He is a member of the Australian College of Educational Leaders and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.<;