Dear Members of the AISB Community,
It is with great pleasure that I have joined the AISB Community, not only as the Executive Director but also as a parent, as 2 of my children have also joined AISB, Benito in Year 11 and Danila in Year 6. My wife, Bonny and I also have 4 other children; 2 working in Australia (Teacher and a Social Worker) and 2 in University in Indonesia.
I am an Australian and have spent the last 15 years in Indonesia, after a 25-year teaching career in Adelaide which encompassed Primary classroom teaching, Student Counsellor, Deputy Principal and Principal positions. I hold a Masters in Education (Leadership and Management).
I moved to Indonesia in 2005 to take up a 2-year position as an Early Years Literacy Adviser on an AusAID funded program in Flores (not far from Komodo) but after 2 years I stayed in Indonesia, as I joined the Australian International School Indonesia in Jakarta as the Head of Secondary. After 4 years in this position, I spent 3 years as the Jakarta Campus Head of Primary and then Principal of all 4 campuses (2 Jakarta campuses, Balikpapan and Bali). Travelling each month to the Bali Campus was a very enjoyable aspect of my role.
During my Principal leadership, AIS Indonesia fully introduced the Australian National Curriculum, became accredited with the Council of International Schools, was authorised to teach the IB Diploma Programme in Jakarta and Bali and was accredited by the Indonesian Ministry of Education. Building projects were undertaken with a new campus built in Bali and a new campus in Jakarta due for completion in December. I look to use these experiences to benefit AISB, particularly as we pursue CIS accreditation, progress the High School to Year 12 and 13 and continue with the building program. I do however believe that when achieving things the most important aspect is how you achieve them. Working with people collaboratively and respectfully with clear communication is the key.
As an educator, I believe academic excellence is important but that this should be achieved through educating the whole child. We must help children succeed, feel successful and feel that they belong. This can only be achieved if teachers know their students, differentiate for them, challenge them, provide quality instruction and quality feedback and treat them with kindness and care. “Schools exist for the children within them.”
When not working I enjoy sport, now mainly watching, with a keen interest in AFL, Cricket, Netball and Tennis. I also enjoy movies and travelling.
I am very much looking forward to meeting you all and to working with your children.
Warmest regards,
Brenton Hall