Ms Fraser celebrates 20 years at Avcol

Ms Clementine Fraser, Head of History at Avondale College, is celebrating 20 years of service this year.

She believes that today, it's more important than ever for young people to have a solid grasp of history. “In a time of conflict, we must understand the past, so we can understand how the present society has come to be,” she explains. “It helps us make sense of the structures of power, social capital, culture, identity, ideas, the things we value, and what makes our communities function - or not function.”

Through studying civil rights movements, global conflict and social change, students begin to identify patterns between the past and present. This enables them to engage more thoughtfully with the world around them, including the media they encounter, and to think critically about the information they receive.

For Ms Fraser, returning to Avondale College - where she was once a student - was both a natural and intentional choice. After completing a practicum at the school, she developed a strong connection with the Social Sciences department and applied even before a role was even advertised. She was interviewed by then-Deputy Principal Frankie Wynne who later offered her a position when one became available.

It is the students, however, who have made the greatest impact on her career. “Teenagers have an innate sense of justice which I enjoy engaging with,” she says. “They can get really passionate about the things they learn. I love that moment when the light goes on and students connect what I'm teaching to their own lived experiences.”

Since becoming Head of Department in 2014 - following her earlier role as Head of Junior Social Science - Ms Fraser has relished the opportunity to shape programmes that reflect a wide range of global perspectives.

Beyond the classroom, Ms Fraser is also an accomplished writer, having published two fantasy novels, with more in progress. Her historical knowledge helps to build the societies and worlds her characters inhabit.

This year also marks a personal milestone, as for the first time in over a decade she doesn't have a child or niece attending the College. "I feel like I'm entering the third phase of my time at Avondale," she reflects. "I've been here a very long time, and despite seeing two decades of change, the College's ethos and focus on HEART values remain strong. The students and staff make it such a rewarding place to be. You feel you can genuinely make a difference here.”