Mr Wells has taken students to explore every corner of WA. The great outdoors is his classroom!

WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE JOINING WESLEY?

Like many teenagers, I finished high school without a clear path in mind. I dabbled with a few ideas but eventually found myself in an apprenticeship in Glass and Glazing. Once I became qualified, though, I realised I was craving something more — something that involved people and the great outdoors. So, I enrolled in an Outdoor Recreation degree and soon found myself sea kayaking, mountain biking, and guiding school adventure programs. After earning my degree, I discovered a true passion for teaching. In 2019, I made my way to Wesley, and I’ve loved every minute since!

WHY DID YOU WANT TO BE AN EDUCATOR?

At first, I had a pretty straightforward idea of what teaching would look like. That all changed during my first practicum placement, where I was asked to lead a multi-day hike along the Bibbulmun Track. It was then that I realised the powerful, lasting impact these outdoor experiences could have on students and the lifelong benefits that an educator can have on a young person. From then on, I wanted to become an educator to help spark lifelong interests and give opportunities beyond the school gates that positively impact young people’s lives.

WHAT WISDOM DO YOU STRIVE TO SHARE WITH YOUR STUDENTS?

I’m a firm believer in the importance of learning to fail well. In a supportive environment, those moments of failure can shape our future successes. It’s all about resilience and growth.

ARE YOU PROUD OF THE OUTDOOR LEARNING PROGRAM AT WESLEY?

I really am. Mr Fidge and I have worked hard to offer something special, and it was a privilege to have that recognised when Outdoors WA presented us with an ‘Outstanding Contribution to Outdoor Learning’. One of the biggest achievements was the creation of our Munda Biddi Trail Program, which sees students go from knowing very little about bikepacking and the logistics of outdoor expeditions to planning, training and implementing their own 700km+ expedition.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT AT WESLEY?

Mountain biking is my go-to! If I’m not with my young family, you’ll probably find me hitting the trails. Whether it’s a weekend in the hills or a trip down south, I try to squeeze in a ride whenever I can.

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR SUMMER BREAKS?

Surprise, surprise — I love camping! Most summers, we pack up the camper trailer and head to the coast. It’s all about 4WDing, fishing, stand-up paddling, snorkelling, and just soaking up time together as a family.

This article was originally published in the Summer 2024 edition of The Wesleyan. To read more, click here.