Mrs Sue Libbis has been Dean of Year 7 for almost five cohorts, and she’s looking forward to seeing her very first group graduate in 2027. “I genuinely love working with young people and Year 7 is such an important transition year for them,” she shares. “Supporting them through this phase is incredibly rewarding because in my role I get to witness and help guide some of the most transformative growth in their young lives.”
Stepping into the role for the first time was “a bit daunting and exciting,” but it quickly became the position she loves most. “I can honestly say that it has been my favourite role at St Stephen’s School, and I have had quite a few!” she says. Her Year 7 teaching team plays a big part in that joy. “I am lucky to have the most amazing Year 7 team of teachers to work with and their enthusiasm and humour (even on camp) makes them such a blessing to work with on a daily basis.”
Sue’s passion shines strongest when she talks about seeing students grow. “Seeing a student go from hesitant and nervous at the start of the year to self-assured by the end of the year… never fails to make my heart sing!” she says. She and her team focus on building habits that last well beyond Year 7. “ Our aim is to encourage a growth mindset and help them to see mistakes as learning opportunities as this will help to set them up to be strong and resilient in the future.”
Her advice to families is practical and grounded. “Advice on mobile phones and social media use is always something I focus on,” she notes. “I strongly believe that Yr 7 students do not need a phone and it is extremely important that parents monitor their access to devices on a regular basis.” She also reassures parents that Year 7 is “a natural progression,” saying, “We always start gently and then there isn’t a sudden, unreasonable jump in expectations… We are here to support them every step of the way.”
Looking back on her time at St Stephen’s School, Sue treasures the experiences that shape students’ memories. “Our school camps are always great adventures for our students,” she reflects, adding that Service Learning tours hold a special place, too. “The impact on our students and their view of the world is amazing… These tours can be life-changing for some students and I encourage all students to try and experience one in their school life.”
Outside of school, Sue’s energy doesn’t slow down. “I am very involved in triathlon and have been for many years,” she says. A proud Life Member of the North Coast Triathlon Club, she describes herself as a “lifestyle triathlete” with a soft spot for the Half Ironman distance.
Ultimately, Sue’s inspiration comes from the students themselves. “They are so much fun!” she says with a smile. “Sometimes we need to remember that our young people are still young, and they are so full of the joy of life.” Whether it’s dress-ups, fundraising, or House Carnivals, she believes Year 7s bring unmatched enthusiasm. “Not everyone gets to experience so much fun on a daily basis!”