Mr Nick Evans joined Melbourne Grammar School in 2014 as Deputy Headmaster and Head of the Senior School. He was previously teaching at Wesley College, where he was promoted through a variety of senior roles, including Head of the Senior School at Wesley’s St Kilda Road campus.
I well remember Nick’s opening address to the Melbourne Grammar boys in the Old Melburnians War Memorial Hall in which he confidently stated that he was “proud to be working here at Wesley College!” The mixture of student hisses and laughter that greeted him was met with a broad smile and an apology that won over his audience and gave an immediate glimpse into the warm character that has been the hallmark of his time at MGS.
It has been a pleasure to have worked with Nick for the past five years at MGS. He and his family, including wife Elly, daughter Stella and son Sam, have been an important part of the School community. What was quickly apparent was the way in which Nick identified and worked hard to ensure that the vibrant and respectful nature of this School prevailed, and he has expertly nurtured this aspect during his tenure. Nick has been very approachable to students, staff and parents, well known for being fair and even handed in his decision making.
As Deputy Headmaster, he has chaired a number of important School committees including the IT Steering Committee and the Occupational Health and Safety Committee. He also chaired the Critical Incident Management Team meetings, dealing with some very difficult issues en route. Nick played a significant role in establishing the Gay Straight Alliance in the Senior School and worked hard to ensure an inclusive culture became entrenched, especially with respect to homophobia and misogyny — not the easiest of tasks in a boys-only Senior School. He played a leading role in MGS gaining accreditation as an eSmart school, effectively managing student cyber risks and cyber bullying.
Nick ensured the high academic standards at MGS remained a key focus, while introducing curriculum change in Years 9 and 10. He led the reorganisation of Heads of Faculty positions and provided them with additional planning time.
As Chair of the IT Steering Committee, Nick helped create a new IT Masterplan and assisted with the establishment of the Growth and Development Teaching Framework (GRaD) as a collegial model for professional and personal growth. He led the planning process, and saw through to completion, the removal of the Senior School Common Room into a larger and far more comfortable space for staff.
Nick Evans is leaving MGS to become Principal of Wesley College, Melbourne. This is a wonderful move for him, especially as he is returning to his alma mater. I take this opportunity on behalf of the entire Melbourne Grammar community to thank Nick most sincerely for his excellent contribution to this School and to wish him all the very best in his new role.
In turn, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Ben Hanisch to the position of Deputy Headmaster and Head of Senior School, commencing Term 3, 2019. Mr Hanisch has held this position at St Peter’s College in Adelaide since July 2016. Prior to his move to Adelaide, Ben taught at Melbourne Grammar and was a member of the Senior School Executive as Director of Senior School Curriculum. He was a highly regarded Head of Hone House for over 8 years, expertly guiding hundreds of MGS students.
Holding a Masters of Education from the University of Melbourne, Ben Hanisch is a highly talented educator who is renowned for the positive interactions he has with students, staff and parents. A warm and engaging character, his reputation is founded on trust, commitment, fairness and a commitment to excellence. Mr Hanisch identifies well with the ethos and values of Melbourne Grammar. He has a strong understanding of its strengths and traditions, but will also bring a valuable fresh perspective and an innovative approach to the School.
We look forward to welcoming Mr Hanisch and his family to the School in due course.
Roy Kelley Headmaster
