Melvin Freestone brings to the firm his vast experience in teaching as well as in school and curriculum development at primary and secondary levels. He has held senior teaching positions in Ireland and Tasmania. Until recently, he was Principal of Montagu Bay Primary School in Tasmania.
In addition to his teaching role, Melvin has led and advised numerous state and national primary and secondary curriculum development projects — specifically relating to science, technology, and personal development. He has worked extensively over many years providing both pre-service and in-service courses and programs for teachers and senior staff.
Melvin’s experience extends beyond Australia’s borders. He has carried out a review of Technology Education in Pacific Rim countries for the OECD’s Pacific Circle Consortium. He has conducted residential programs for primary and secondary teachers in Thailand in association with the University of Tasmania. Melvin has worked with teachers in Nepal, India, Thailand, and Brunei, as well as Australia, and is an Education Consultant to Sujaya Schools and Leadership Boulevard in India.
Melvin focuses on the empowerment of the people with whom he works. He works collaboratively — at the shoulder — with educational leaders, senior staff, teachers, parents, and members of school communities. His educational experience and expertise enhance dialogue, collaboration, and shared action.
Melvin is a molecular biologist as well as an experienced educator, and has carried out research into the hospital pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. As President for many years of Project Hahn Inc. in Tasmania, he helped provide outdoor adventure programs for young people at risk or in need of support.