Sole school teacher

Bruce cited for commitment to Brisbane Adventist College

He enjoys his job. Bruce Dever (BEd, 1994) has worked for the one school—Brisbane Adventist College—since graduating 30 years ago. Deputy principal since 2008, “I’m still challenged—most days—by what I do.” He describes not only his colleagues but his career as a “blessing.” “I get to be part of so many people’s lives.”

Hearing students at Year 12 graduation share “remarkably positive” stories of their journey through school is always memorable because of the influence of teachers, choice of friends, acts of service and openness to spiritual guidance. “Experiencing myself the hope and assurance we have in Jesus and sharing it with others is why I’m invested in Adventist Christian education,” says Bruce.

That investment began at Avondale.

Bruce attended to become more independent away from home “without all the responsibilities.” He got to make important choices from good options, meet friends from around the South Pacific and indulge his love of sport and the outdoors.

A personal accomplishment is remaining physically fit enough to enjoy the latter with his family—wife Michelle and the “joy of three boys,” Kaleb, Jason and Riley. “We’re like an old Landcruiser—reliable, able to have fun and like a bit of adventure” (camping, mountain biking and running in particular).

Born to missionary parents in Rabaul, Bruce completed his primary schooling and the first year of high school in Papua New Guinea. He came to Avondale as a Year 12 school leaver from Lilydale Adventist Academy, where his father taught science.

Bruce shares two lessons from life—passed on by parents or gleaned from experience. The first: helping others is more satisfying than gaining possessions. And the second: “you don’t have to be an extrovert to make a difference as a teacher.” “I continue to search for ways to be more effective in my sphere of influence,” he adds.

The Class of 1994 honours Bruce Dever for his commitment to the ministry of teaching at Brisbane Adventist College.