New IGS Parents, Teachers and Friends Association (PTF) President Hayley Dean said she hadn’t planned to step into the role.
She said she and her partner, Lisa, chose the School five years ago because “I wanted my kids know there’s a world outside of Australia”. They now have three children at the School.
While Lisa has been involved as a Year Rep since joining the School, Hayley served more recently as Vice President Early Learning and Primary School.
After COVID restrictions vastly reduced parent and carer involvement in the School and a number of long-serving office bearers retired after their children graduated, Hayley sent out an email early this year to find out what was happening with the PTF.
She found herself deeply involved in supporting a community wake, and was elected President shortly afterwards, with a fresh team and a few experienced volunteers.
Referring to the School’s values, Hayley says “connectedness is where we add value” though many would agree that IGS parents also exemplify the other values, of diversity, authenticity, vibrancy and personal achievement.
Hayley’s favourite quote is from The Lorax by Dr Seuss:
Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot,
Nothing is going to get better. It’s not.
“I try to teach my boys, you have to get involved and helped out,” she said. “Not that there’s anything wrong with the School, but I want to show my boys about getting involved.”
Hayley became an advertising and radio copywriter after going to university at the age of 25.
“I always loved writing, but I’d pushed the creative side of me away,” she said. Now a freelance writer, she works with a wide range of clients.
If Hayley’s face seems familiar, it might be because she is often interviewed by 7 News. Here she is speaking out about inflation this week. Spot the IGS Learning Journeys book in the foreground!
The PTF will hold a strategic planning day on 26 May.
“We walk side by side with the School. We are a new PTF and want to find out where we see ourselves adding the most value and support to the School in the best possible way.”
Hayley extends a warm welcome to every parent, teacher and friend of IGS to email ptf@igssyd.nsw.edu.au and become involved. In addition to the formal roles still open, any parent may become an extra year rep. Find about more about the PTF here.