Let’s Meet a Chapter Member
Each eNews, we introduce you to one of our wonderful Chapter Members, through a question and answer type interview article.
This week the Member in the hotseat is: Taylor Stiffe, Admissions Associate, Queenwood
My Own Student Perspective
I began my journey as a student at Wenona, experiencing firsthand the warmth, rigor, and sense of purpose that independent schooling fosters. That immersive vantage point continues to shape my work, anchoring every decision in what it means for students today and tomorrow.
Teaching with Heart – Starting My Career
With a Bachelor of Primary Education in hand, I taught in both London and New South Wales. In the UK, I founded Aspire, a reflective-teaching initiative created to address teacher shortages. From designing paid classroom placements to curating monthly webinars, it centered around:
- Teaching as a reflective practice
- Cathedral thinking (seeing the long view of education)
- Honoring teaching as a vocation
Witnessing and supporting promising teachers was powerful—for them and deeply affirming for me.
Advocacy & Public Engagement
Beyond classroom walls, I speak and write with clarity, advocacy, and passion—bridging educators, families, and communities. Whether through webinars, resources, or public dialogue, I bring the student lens, the teacher lens, and the public lens to ensure that conversations about education feel inclusive, insightful, and grounded.
When Did You Start in your Current Role?
Admissions & Advancement
Back in Sydney from London, I stepped into my role as Admissions Associate at Queenwood—an unexpected but instantly compelling new chapter. I’ve found my stride in a space at the intersection of education, community, and meaningful impact.
Growth & Future Focus
In my midlate 20s and fueled by curiosity, I began a Master’s in Counselling. Guided by exceptional coaches, I’m now redirecting those credits toward a future-focused Masters in Marketing, Alumni, and/or Philanthropy. My aim? To serve the independent school Advancement sector with strategic insight and authentic heart… to grow and learn in this field.
Why Advancement Means Everything
Advancement work brings together everything I care about:
- Remaining rooted in education, not just its systems
- Advocating for students, drawing from my time as one
- Supporting teachers, with compassion bred from teaching
- Engaging the wider public, ensuring education’s value resonates
Educate Plus has opened doors I didn’t even know existed—with thoughtful mentorship, practical guidance, and belief in my potential.
What’s Next
I’m energised by the road ahead—ready to grow, contribute, and shape the future of independent school Advancement. With the unique lenses I bring, I’m not just here to work—I’m here to champion a vision of education that uplifts learners, supports educators and inspires communities.
Let’s build a legacy together: one that resonates far beyond our classrooms and sparks meaningful change.