Luke Schoff announced as new principal for St Andrews Lutheran College

St Andrew’s Lutheran College will soon welcome a new principal, but it’s a full-circle moment for the man who began his career at the school over 20 years ago.

In 2001 Luke Schoff began his career in education as a teacher at St Andrew’s Lutheran College – using bread tags as counters to teach the kids maths.

“We had no resources back then and couldn’t really afford the nice expensive counters,” Ms Schoff recalled.

“In those early days the school had to focus on building new building so it was up to us teachers to roll up our sleeves and get a bit creative to keep the school running.”

Incoming St Andrew's Lutheran College principal Luke Schoff. Picture: Supplied

Now the school is renowned among the city’s top private schools and boasts some of the best resources.

And starting in July, Mr Schoff will begin the next phase of his career as the school’s fifth principal.

“It’s a kind of homecoming,” Mr Schoff said.

“I have a real passion for this school. I began my career here and coming back a lot has changed so I’m excited to revisit it as it is now.”

It comes as outgoing principal David Bliss announced his retirement after seven and a half years at helm.

“Teaching is a noble profession,” Mr Bliss said. “It is the only profession that has direct influence over every other profession.”

Mr Bliss said from navigating the Covid-19 pandemic to board room politics, the highlight of his career was meeting with students years after they graduate.

Outgoing St Andrew's Lutheran College principal David Bliss. Picture: Supplied

“All those who teach have a story of how one or more of their teachers made a profound effect on them. It is truly humbling that I have also been that person for others,” he said.

Mr Schoff said heading into the new role his goal is to pioneer new vocational opportunities for students.

“One of my goals is to see St Andrews students graduate into the field. To grow our programs, connections within the community and to partner with universities and TAFE so that our students become good contributing members of the community,” Mr Schoff said.

Mr Bliss said his only advice for the incoming principal was to “always put students first”.

Mr Schoff will officially begin his role as principal in July this year.