Meet our Dean of Students

Bringing out the best version of a student's self is what drives our Dean of Students Mrs Amber Sowden. Discover more about Amber and her passion for wellbeing.

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What does a typical day look like?

There is no typical day! Student management is very dynamic and therefore the best laid plans for the day often go out the window. My day is one long conversation, with students, parents and staff. I spend most of each day troubleshooting and working closely with the fantastic staff at Strathcona to deliver supportive outcomes for the girls and families.

What attracted you to working in Wellbeing?

The reason I moved towards wellbeing leadership is the same reason why I got into education in the first place. Young people are energising. They are hopeful and complicated and fun and I love working to support them to be the best versions of themselves. In doing so, they help me be the best version of myself.

Do you have a highlight/memorable moment from your time at Strathcona?  

A highlight for me was welcoming the students back onsite last year after the second very long lockdown. It was so joyful, we were all so thrilled to be back together. They were so grateful for the support Strathcona gave them in 2020 and we were so proud of them. I’ll never forget the morning when the Year 11s and 12s came back.

What do you enjoy doing outside the classroom? 

I am a news junkie, in another life I would have been a journalist or a politician. I love spending large parts of my week reading a wide variety of news from all over the world.

What is your best wellbeing tip?

Move, every day! Any type of movement each day has more physical, mental health and wellbeing impacts than any of us realise.