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Deepening leadership through learning
17 Dec 2025 4 min readDeputy Principal and Stage 6 Mentor at Korowal School, Matt Whaley, was selected to complete the prestigious AISNSW Leadership Program. The year-long professional development course is designed to empower emerging leaders in the independent education sector.
As a fund passionate about the development and financial wellbeing of education professionals, NGS Super proudly sponsors the program, offering partial scholarships to five participants. The program blends workshops, mentoring, and reflective learning to help participants strengthen self-awareness, refine leadership skills, and gain valuable insights into the realities of school leadership.
Beyond expectations
The program was full of surprises. “I had no idea what to expect. I thought it would be mostly academic readings and leadership theory. I was completely wrong,” says Matt.
From day one, participants heard candid insights from principals across the state who spoke openly about their challenges and achievements. Through psychometric frameworks, reflective sessions, and school shadowing opportunities, participants gained a nuanced understanding of what it truly means to lead a school.
“We shadowed principals through a typical day, and it gave us a profound appreciation of the complexity and humanity behind school leadership.”
Lessons in connection and service
When reflecting on what he gained from the experience, Matt emphasised the importance of continuous growth and community impact.
“My goals now are centred on continual improvement, both for myself and for those I serve. Leadership isn’t about being alone at the top. If leadership feels lonely, something’s gone wrong. To lead well is to connect, to lift others, and help them lift those around them.”
Vulnerability and authentic leadership
One of the most surprising elements of the program was the vulnerability displayed by experienced principals.
“These are leaders constantly under public scrutiny, yet they were incredibly open and authentic. They shared their successes, their failures, and the moments that shaped them. It was deeply inspiring and humanising.”
A deeper connection with NGS Super
Before joining the program, Matt saw NGS Super simply as his superannuation fund. That perception changed entirely through the scholarship experience.
“I met my NGS representative via the scholarship. They offered genuine feedback and encouragement. It went far beyond financial support. NGS Super showed a real investment in my professional growth. That level of engagement meant so much.”
Supporting the future of educational leadership
Through initiatives like the AISNSW Leadership Program, NGS Super continues to demonstrate its commitment to the future of education by investing in those who lead and inspire learning communities.
“This program has been transformative,” says Matt. “It’s given me clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of purpose as a leader.”
Helping teachers growFor more than 35 years, NGS Super has proudly supported education professionals in achieving their financial and personal goals. We recognise that teachers and education staff devote their careers to helping others learn and grow, and we’re equally committed to fostering their own development.
As a sponsor of the AISNSW National Flagship Program, we aim to empower educators to take charge of their financial future while continuing their lifelong journey of learning and growth.
Learn more about NGS in the community: https://www.ngssuper.com.au/super/learn-about-super/teachers-super-fund
The views expressed in this testimonial are the personal experiences of one member and may not be typical. This testimonial was provided for general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, or making an investment decision, consider whether it is appropriate to you and read our Financial Services Guide, Product Disclosure Statements and Target Market Determinations available at ngssuper.com.au. You should also consider obtaining financial, taxation and/or legal advice tailored to your personal circumstances before making a decision. This information has been issued by NGS Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 003 491 487 and AFSL 233 154, as trustee of NGS Super ABN 73 549 180 515.
Call us on 1300 133 177 if you would like to speak with us further, or you can discuss matters with one of our NGS Super Specialists or an NGS Financial Planner.
