Amongst the staff at Trinity Grammar School, you’ll find a handful of Trinity’s own alumni.
Some are relatively recent graduates while for others the Trinity student experience is a little more distant in their memory.
Mr Peter Low (Class of 2000) – Head of Faculty, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) – is one of this number, although he says that his status as an Old Boy was one that he was conscious not to lean on.
Like many Old Boys, Mr Low stayed connected to the School over the years and, with three older brothers who also attended the School, he recognises his strong link. He says that he’s always been of the belief that working hard and proving yourself will naturally attract positive recognition and professional opportunities.
“I didn’t chase coming back to Trinity yet the opportunity came at a time that made sense and knowing the School and the environment, I jumped at the chance,” Mr Low says. “My time here has been so positive. The support networks go above and beyond. Everyone makes me feel so comfortable and respected.”
With his last Trinity experience being that of a student, he notes that there are plenty of things to get used to when you return as a staff member, however there are also many ‘hallmarks’ of the Trinity experience that remain regardless of whether you are a staff or student.
“There were so many opportunities when I was a student and there are even more now. I was a sporty kid who was extremely fortunate to be a part of two CAS Premiership Winning teams (1st XV Rugby and 1st XI Cricket), though I was also able to get involved in activities such as Cadets and the Duke of Edinburgh program. Some of my favourite memories from being a student were the tours – particularly the 1997 UK Cricket Tour.”
Recently, he reconnected with a staff member who was on that tour, who reminded Mr Low of stories from the trip that he’d forgotten over the years.
When his father passed away three years ago, Mr Low was teaching at another school. His family received a letter from a Trinity House Master expressing his condolences and sharing memories. “It’s that commitment … that pastoral side of things I really value. It’s always been there and it’s been strong, although it seems to have become even stronger now. I can now be a part of that pastoral care, committed to the students,” he says.
“We achieve these connections with students in class and also through experiences on the sporting field, hikes, house activities, and competitions – there are so many activities where staff can bond with students and demonstrate a pastoral connection without forcing it.”
Having moved from being the Executive Officer of the TGS Army Cadet Unit when he first returned to Trinity to now being the Head of Faculty for PDHPE, Mr Low says there’s a sense of collegiality here that isn’t always found elsewhere.
“I lean on a lot of people in the School for their advice. Everyone is so willing to share resources and ideas and to team teach. I really value that,” he says. “You work in some places where people keep things close to their chests but here there’s a really open, transparent approach to education.”
Now in a leadership role, he’s keen to continue fostering that belief in his own team, providing guidance and leaning into the culture of positivity, support, and genuine care while also encouraging them to set goals and strive to be better in every area.
“My dad always said that you should aim to build the strongest team possible, so as a leader, I’m always seeking ways to grow and encourage the PDHPE team to give their best, both professionally and personally.”
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