Goodbye Mr Schmidt

The Springfield community farewell incumbent Principal Craig Schmidt at the end of 2021. During his tenure as Principal at the College the school has continued to grow and flourish under his leadership, and through some extreme challenges. In this article, we would like to acknowledge all that Mr Schmidt has accomplished.

MAI THATCHER | Springfield Marketing & Events Officer

Joining the Springfield College in May 2012, Craig Schmidt's initial appointment was as Deputy Principal. In this role, he worked to demonstrate his core faith and belief in the benefits of co-education in a Christian centred context. Leading by example, Mr Schmidt worked to instil clear expectations to the students around conduct and behaviour, motivating them to embody the motto of Plus Ultra in all they do.

But we should also not forget that prior to this appointment he had spent many years committed to the art of teaching. Qualifying as a PE teacher, his analytical mind gave him an aptitude to teach the most complex of subjects through Specialist Maths classes. He is a highly respected and engaging teacher and many students were saddened when growth at the College meant his time had to become solely focused on his management role.

For the past three years Mr Schmidt has faithfully served as Principal at Springfield. During this time Mr Schmidt has led with distinction, strengthening the College’s Christian ethos, developing a vibrant staff and student culture, enhancing our sense of community, and overseeing significant facility development. Strong enrolment demand has seen the student population increase by 18%. This growth has been carefully managed making thorough use of existing facilities and with future development planning. The College continues to have a healthy school culture based upon our core values, and the motto Plus Ultra providing a ‘first class’ teaching and learning program creating good learning outcomes as evidenced by our student results.

Principal Craig Schmidt managed, as part of a wider team, the construction of new facilities within the College, including the innovative Junior High Precinct which opened in September 2020. This building was designed to give students an inspiring and creative space to learn and collaborate. The precinct is a standing legacy to the St Peters community and future families of Mr Schmidt’s commitment and dedication to provide high quality facilities that support the ethos that ‘every student learns every day’.

In response to the growth, the College also saw a community demand for places in the St Peters Lutheran College Springfield Kindergarten who opened a second classroom in March 2021. The additional classroom allowed more opportunities for parents looking to give their children a K-12 education journey. Mr Schmidt believes that, 'the kindergarten is the first opportunity we have to demonstrate to families the authentic and holistic way we support students at St Peters. We are trusted with that which they hold most dear, and this is an undertaking that the team takes very seriously. The reward of watching a child grow in confidence and skill and develop in character is a gift to us'.

Part of Mr Schmidt’s legacy will be the organic development and the visual representation of the St Peters Graduate Tree. The tree was developed in collaboration with the teaching staff and represents key qualities and characteristics of a Springfield graduate. It embodies the deep commitment of staff, under Mr Schmidt’s leadership, to the formation of students into adult life, equipping them with skills and knowledge to use their gifts and talents in service to the world.

Mr Schmidt also led with great fortitude and provided great leadership through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The College had to quickly adapt to be capable of delivering quality education through At Home Learning and despite several lockdowns. Multiple changes in learning programs, timetables, events, student and teacher interaction; and much more were necessary for students to continue their education with minimal disruption.

Committed in his genuine care and concern for all staff, students and families, Mr Schmidt provided necessary support and assistance at every level to maintain our strong sense of community and embody the values of Care, Dignity and Respect.

It's now time to congratulate Mr Schmidt on his new appointment and wish him every success as he navigates this new chapter. You will be remembered for your passion, knowledge, insight and humble appreciation of God’s gifts. Thank you, Mr Schmidt you will be missed by us all.