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 award recognises Mr 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 program 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” says Headmaster Dr John Collier.
Blood began teaching and working at Shore since moving from regional Dubbo, New South Wales, in 2011.
“Over my time here, I have held various roles, including teaching, pastoral care, mentoring, sports coaching, and, more recently, serving as the Head of Service Learning for the past two years,” he told EducationDaily.
He defines quality leadership as something that “involves many concepts and is imperative for communities, organisations, and schools to grow”.
“Quality leadership takes many forms, and to me personally, great leadership involves humility, humbleness, and work ethic. Looking to the needs of others as a leader is pivotal. Being able to achieve goals without the need to be acknowledged and, most importantly, leading by example through work ethic are all important qualities of leadership,” he says.
Blood says encouraging students to not only learn about societal needs but to actively participate in addressing them underpins his approach.
“Through service experiences, boys from Shore can understand societal needs and community challenges while connecting with various charities and community organisations. By actively participating, such as cooking meals for people experiencing homelessness, boys are challenged to think broadly, reflect on their own circumstances, and become part of a greater solution,” he told EducationDaily.
“Through tangible service initiatives in diverse communities, students learn and actively participate in addressing community needs. This includes educational experiences, fundraising, and providing hands-on support to vulnerable people in challenging circumstances.
“Finally, boys are encouraged to share their experiences in Tutor Groups and Houses, fostering leadership skills while supporting various charity causes. This approach amplifies these causes, educates peers, and motivates more boys to participate actively.”
