Spotlight on a Teacher

Meet Nikki Wyse – Head of Senior School 

1. How long have you worked at the College?

I’ve been part of the Pymble community since 1998, starting as a relief Modern History teacher while the regular teacher was on long service leave. After a short stint at Hills Grammar, I was fortunate enough to secure a permanent position in the English faculty, and I’ve absolutely loved teaching here ever since.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being involved in the Boarding community, serving as Head of Lang House for five years and living in Joan Hammond House. In fact, two of my three boys were born while we were living onsite at Pymble, and I truly cherished the sense of family and fun that comes with being part of the boarding community.

In 2008, I became Head of Upper School (Years 10–12), and a few years later, I took on the role of Head of Senior School in 2012 (I think it was then) when the secondary school was restructured. I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside three incredible principals—Gillian Moore, Vicki Waters, and Kate Hadwen—and I’ve learned so much from each of them along the way.

2. What is a standout memory from your time at Pymble?

There are countless standout memories from my time here, and it’s difficult to choose just one. I thoroughly enjoyed the Centenary celebrations, which beautifully blended the rich history of Pymble with its exciting future. It was truly a privilege to be part of such historic milestones. I have also had the opportunity to travel with students on tours and with colleagues to conferences. Pymble has allowed me to see the world; walking through the trenches on the Western Front, sitting in the lecture halls at Cambridge University and touring Shakespeare’s Globe with students have all provided amazing memories. Equally, whilst I was living in the boarding community, Pymble hosted the US women’s gymnastics team during the Sydney Olympics. Having the opportunity to meet some of the athletes and watch them train, was also a once in a lifetime experience.

However, the memories I hold most dear are the moments shared with the girls – whether in the classroom, the boarding house, or simply through conversation. They bring so much joy, reminding me to appreciate the little things in life. I am continually inspired by their kindness, their perspectives, and the way they challenge me to think differently. It is a genuine honour to play a small part in their individual stories of resilience and hope. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to grow and learn alongside such wonderful young people.

Equally inspiring has been the opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated and talented group of colleagues. The collaboration and camaraderie I’ve shared with them over the years has been a constant source of motivation. Their passion for teaching, their support, and their commitment to the students make every day rewarding. I’ve learned so much from them and am grateful for the chance to be part of such an amazing team.

One of the greatest joys has been the sense of community created through the wonderful events we share throughout the year. Whether it’s Garden Party, Year 12 trivia nights, formals, or valedictory dinners, these occasions bring us all together in celebration and reflection. They’re a reminder of the strong bonds we share as a school and the lasting impact of our time together.

3. What is the biggest change you’ve seen to the College?

In many ways, while much has changed, the central focus of working with students and their families has remained constant and continues to be at the heart of my work. Over the years, I’ve seen a number of new buildings and facilities built at Pymble, all of which have enhanced the experiences of the girls. The addition of Vision Valley as an outdoor campus and the significant impact of technology have all brought about notable changes in the opportunities and processes we can offer our students.

Technology has certainly presented many challenges, but it has also brought more opportunities, particularly in how we teach, learn and connect with one another. Despite these changes, the core of my experience at Pymble has always been the relationships – the connection between student and teacher. These relationships remain largely unchanged and continue to bring deep purpose and meaning to my work.

4. What do you love the most about your role?

For most teachers, it’s no secret that our students are what we love most about our work. Over the years, thousands have passed through the doors of the Senior School at Pymble, and I’ve been continually inspired by the energy, passion, occasional cynicism, and, most of all, the joy that students bring. I love the breadth of characters I encounter, from the quiet and thoughtful to the bold and spirited. The unpredictable nature of the work keeps me on my toes and ensures every day is unique.

It’s truly a privilege to walk alongside them in the final leg of their high school journey, and I am intensely aware of the responsibility that comes with being part of this important chapter in their lives. As an English teacher, I also find great joy in discussing literature with the girls and, in turn, trying to ignite that same passion for reading and writing in the next generation of young women. The subject lends itself to a sharing of the human spirit and invites us to share our inner thoughts, insights and dreams.

One of the greatest joys is hearing from graduates, sometimes 20 years after they’ve left Pymble, and learning about their life stories and reflections on their time at school. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how their experiences here have shaped them, and to hear about the paths they’ve taken. Each day is different – never quite the same as the one before – and that is what keeps the work vibrant and challenging, ensuring I continue to grow alongside them.

5. What is it about Pymble which has kept you here?

That’s both a difficult and an easy question to answer – it’s the people. The grounds here are truly beautiful. I’ve had the privilege of visiting some of the most respected schools around the world, but none have matched the physical beauty of Pymble. The opportunities available to students are vast, and the world-class facilities are certainly impressive – but these are all added extras in comparison to what truly makes Pymble special.

What stands out most to me, and what has made Pymble feel like a second family, is the wonderful ‘unending stream’ of girls, the incredibly clever and kind colleagues, many of whom have become trusted friends, and the supportive parents who are always ready to engage with the school community. I arrived here as a relatively young newlywed and have had the privilege of raising my three adult sons while working at Pymble. Life has unfolded around me, with the College being a constant source of support and strength through all the ups and downs. I have faced some of the most challenging times in my Pymble journey, and I have confronted the saddest days alongside my colleagues and the girls. Pymble has taught me, in a very concrete and enduring way, about the power of community and healing powers of kindness and care.

I genuinely couldn’t be prouder to be a small part of the history of this remarkable school. It has truly been a place where my personal values align so closely with the school’s. When I think about my time here, I realise that the real question is less about ‘why stay?’ and more about ‘why would I ever leave?’