Where are they now – Jess Erhardt – Class of 2006
Looking back, my journey in education really began during my own school days at Clonard College. I graduated Year 12 in 2006. I have such fond memories of my time there, the friendships, the encouragement and the strong sense of community. I absolutely loved PE and Theatre Studies, two subjects that couldn’t have been more different, but both brought me so much joy. Whether it was performing on stage or out on the sports field, those experiences built my confidence, creativity and love of teamwork. These skills I still draw on every day as an educator and leader.
Being part of an all-girls’ school gave me the confidence to speak up, lead with authenticity and believe in my ability to make a difference. It was a place where I learned that being yourself is your greatest strength and that’s a lesson that’s guided me ever since.
After completing Year 12, I wasn’t quite ready to leave school behind, so I didn’t! I took up a traineeship at Sacred Heart College in the Outdoor Education and PE Department, which turned out to be a pivotal experience. Working alongside passionate teachers and watching students thrive outdoors confirmed my desire to pursue a career in Physical Education.
I went on to study Physical Education at the University of Ballarat (now Federation University). When I graduated, teaching jobs were highly competitive, so I cast my net wide and found myself relocating to Ararat, where I secured my first position at Stawell Primary School, before moving onto Ararat College.
Working in a rural setting offered incredible opportunities. At Ararat College, I quickly discovered that smaller schools often mean big chances for growth and I was fortunate to move into middle leadership roles early in my career. By my fifth year of teaching, I had stepped into the role of Assistant Principal, a challenge that taught me as much about people as it did about pedagogy.
After several rewarding years in school leadership, I took some time away from the profession to focus on my growing family with my husband, Darcy. We built a house on 80 acres just outside of Ballarat where we run a few sheep and enjoy the rural lifestyle, in 2020 welcomed our son, Rocket.
When I returned from family leave, I took on a role within the Department of Education, joining a team dedicated to supporting schools and leadership teams to implement whole-school change and improve student outcomes. It was deeply fulfilling work that broadened my understanding of education beyond the classroom.
Not long after, our family grew again with the arrival of Goldie and I embraced a new season of life, balancing work, nappies and nap times. Once the toddler chaos settled (a little!), I felt ready for my next professional adventure.
With equal parts optimism and courage, I applied for a Principal position at a local primary school, and was thrilled to be successful. Leading a school has been the most challenging and rewarding role of my career so far. Each day brings new lessons, celebrations, and opportunities to make a difference in the lives of students and their families.
From a Year 12 trainee to a proud Principal, it’s been a journey filled with learning, laughter and plenty of teamwork, both at home and at school. And through it all, I often think back to my days at Clonard, where my love of learning and belief in myself first began.
