Sports Skills teacher Katie Stitt hands over the baton to Keith MacPherson.
Forbes Public Schools (FPS) very own Katie Stitt is taking leave from her role as sports skills teacher to pursue the creative endeavour of writing and publishing her own book. In her absence, Keith MacPherson will be taking on her position at FPS.
Katie has been so much more than a sports teacher over her seven years at FPS, with her passion for fund-raising evident in whole school community events, like the run-a-thon that raised $7,000 for the school, and the Jump Rope For Heart Skipping Show which raised $8,000 for the Heart Foundation.
On remembering her time with FPS, Katie said, “I have loved every second of this incredible school. A highlight would be witnessing a student mastering a new skill. For example, doing a forward roll for the first time in their life. Faced with fear and trepidation they choose to surrender and trust, and when they succeed, the joyful look on their faces says it all. There will always be times in their lives when taking a risk is the best option and they will never know unless they have a go. It’s like me leaving the comfort of my job at FPS to pursue my dream of writing and publishing a book.”
Katie’s enthusiasm and energy will be missed this year however, Keith MacPherson brings a unique skill set to FPS. With a background in athletics and touch football, and a degree in Graphic Design, he is looking forward to training local athletes and sporting teams.
“Many people have asked me, why would you want to leave behind the hum of the city, with all it has to offer and the achievements that can be made? The short answer is quite simple, community. I cannot deny that Sydney has exposed me to things unheard of in the country. The perspective it has provided me will aid my future in ways only a place built with a competitive nature can. However, it is time for me to return to something more familiar and Forbes is the perfect place to start,” Keith said.
“After growing up on a Thoroughbred Stud farm in Scone and leaving for Sydney to study and pursue my passion for athletics and education, I find myself pining for fence lines and heat again. The last decade spent in Sydney has seen me attain athletic success in many events, build my career as both a designer and educator, and has introduced me to some wonderful people. However, as many people would say, the city is a beast that never sleeps, and I have found myself worn down by its constant demand for more.
“This is one of the major reasons I have decided to choose Forbes as my next destination, this and a small nostalgic connection from childhood. I have been told that Forbes has a great passion for sport but also the other elements that balance a good sports person. I hope to continue this trend and guide the students at FPS to become well rounded students that value not only sport, but creativity, effort, and ingenuity. I look forward to becoming a part of this community and calling upon all the things it has to offer for the future of its younger generation.”