For more than four decades, Georgie Strong has been an integral part of the team at our College. From volunteer to cleaner, administration, Bursar and finally Business Manager, she has worn many hats during her time, and in each one showed profound dedication and unwavering faith. As she steps into retirement, we wanted to hear more from Georgie on her journey with Gosford Christian School (GCS), and then Saint Philip's Christian College (SPCC). Thank you, Georgie, for your commitment to the core values and ethos of SPCC and for fostering a loving, nurturing, and caring environment for every student who walked through our doors. You will be very missed!

I have been at GCS/SPCC for ……

I was a member of Gosford Christian Church from its early beginnings in 1976. The leadership had a very strong vision to start a school for church families and the wider community. Through prayer and God’s grace, this occurred in 1981.

When the school first opened it was our own little church building in Narara. I volunteered in the classroom as Class Monitor, helping students where necessary and with classroom set up and pack down at the beginning and the end of each week.

Upon my return in 1989 after living interstate, I worked as the school cleaner and volunteered in Student Reception with Lorraine Hodgson. I did administrative tasks to support Lorraine, such as photocopying. During this time the church started Gate House Street Ministry and I volunteered as the secretary and did their finances in the school office. I then worked as the school receptionist for 4 hours per day, all the while continuing on with cleaning and volunteering for Gate House. There became a need for a new school secretary and it was at this time I job shared in that role, as well as front receptionist. I entered all students class lists into our new program, PC Schools. I experienced many a steep learning curve, particularly when I had to take over pay role after only a few months of training, as well as accounts receivable and accounts payable. We had an excellent team and I felt very well supported all through this new process. Over this time, I under took courses in Accounting IV, Excel and then completed a Diploma in Business Administration. I eventually became the Bursar and now I am the College Business Manager.

Even from the very early days, something was birthed in my spirit for Christian Education. I have loved being a part of this school and have never wavered in this calling to our core values and ethos, to love, nurture and care for all of the students who come to this place.

The best piece of advice given to me …..

To be faithful in the little and do well the things that God has called you to do. He is faithful and he will direct your paths. At the beginning of my journey working at this school I had no idea where God would lead and guide me. God had his hand on me, I just had to trust and remain faithful to him. It is amazing to me that I am doing this role, as I never felt capable. I would have been content to keep cleaning but God had other plans and it is by His grace I am where I am today. Never give up on your dreams, God plants the seeds and he provides the water. God has given to me more than I could ever dream or hope for.

One last thing ……

We are so very blessed to be a part of SPCC, going from one stand-alone school to being part of a fabulous group of schools. The vision at the very beginning is really the same vision that SPCC has for us now and God is certainly bringing it to pass.

As I quickly head towards retirement, I know that SPCC is in good hands. The executive and leadership team put God first, where they honour Him and honour others. I know we are a world class school all for the glory of God.