3 Jun 2024

Distinguished doctors

Completing a doctorate is the pinnacle of professional learning and growth, and Churchie is proud to have three staff members who have completed their doctorates in recent years.

Acting Head of Senior School Dr Alex Krzensk completed his PhD in 2020 through the University of Oulu, Finland. His research determined that the development of academic resilience and self-regulated learning skills in the classroom statistically positively influenced students’ exam results. Dr Krzensk’s research has influenced feedback mechanisms at Churchie and informed aspects of A Learner’s Toolkit and digital literacy programmes.

Director of Staff Development Dr Vicky Leighton completed her PhD in 2022 at The University of Queensland. Dr Leighton investigated how the built environment influences teaching practices and student learning. She devised a tool that is now being used by teachers, learning environment professionals and researchers to evaluate the impact of buildings and space on teaching practices and learning.

Acting Dean of Studies (Years 7 to 9) Dr Emilia Sinton completed her doctorate at UQ in 2024. Her study revealed discrepancies between students’ perceived and actual understanding of mathematics vocabulary and offered insights for enhancing mathematics education and subject-specific literacy research. Dr Sinton’s findings have been incorporated into Churchie’s mathematics programme design, assessment and teacher pedagogy and have informed Churchie’s Literacy Across the Curriculum programme.

Churchie is proud to have staff who are committed to continuous professional learning and growth, and who share their knowledge and skills for the benefit of students and colleagues.

Photo: Emila Sinton, Alex Krzensk and Vicky Leighton