Published on July 31, 2024
Since leaving Hunter Valley Grammar School (HVGS), Charles Fielder, also known as Charlie and the School Captain of the Class of 2014, has maintained a steady course through his passions and hobbies. These include rugby, gym workouts, fishing, surfing, and socializing. Learning, travelling, and spending quality time with friends and family have also continued to be central to his life. In 2015, Charlie embarked on his academic journey at Newcastle University, initially studying Secondary PDHPE teaching. His university path was anything but straightforward, shifting from teaching to law/politics before finally returning to education. He graduated with a Master of Teaching (Primary) in 2021.
During his time at University, Charlie moved from Nelson Bay to Newcastle, moving in with friends from home. They worked diligently but also created many memorable experiences together. Now, Charlie has returned to Nelson Bay, where he lives with his fiancée, Tayla, their dog, Henry, and his brother, George. Being back in the Bay has been a wonderful homecoming for him.
Currently, Charlie is a classroom teacher at Karuah Public School, where he enjoys teaching a lively Year 3 class. The supportive and engaging community of staff, students and parents makes it a fantastic school to be a part of. Reflecting on his time at HVGS, Charlie acknowledges how privileged and fortunate he was to attend a school that provided such valuable opportunities.
One of the most influential figures during his time at HVGS was Lorraine Keith. Charlie had the privilege of being in Mrs. Keith’s PDHPE class for Years 11 and 12. She fostered a collaborative and supportive environment, both between herself and her students, and among the students themselves. Mrs. Keith’s passion for netball and sport, coupled with the strong competitive spirit of the class, greatly influenced Charlie’s career choice and reinforced his love for sport and physical activity.
A standout memory from Charlie’s school years is the 2013 Dubai 7s trip with the HVGS Rugby 7s team, led by Gareth Hawgood and Angus Morgan. The team participated in a world-class rugby competition, trained with the Aussie 7s Men’s team and watched the Aussie Women’s team win the Cup Final. The trip was filled with incredible experiences and great camaraderie among the group.
Charlie’s sense of accomplishment is rooted in three significant milestones: graduating from university in 2021 after nearly six years of full-time study; purchasing his first home; and beginning his journey with Tayla marked by their engagement and the addition of their puppy, Henry to the family.
Charlie is passionate about the connection he has with his friends and family, noting that “catching up and being with them is probably what brings me the most happiness”. Physical activity and health are also central to his daily routine, whether it’s through gym sessions, rugby training, or running. Travel remains a beloved pursuit, with Charlie having explored South East Asia, Sri Lanka, the US and Mexico during his University years. More recently, he and Tayla enjoyed a month-long adventure in New Zealand’s South Island. Although adult responsibilities now make time scarcer, Charlie is always dreaming of his next trip!
Charlie’s journey from HVGS to his current life as a dedicated teacher and active sports enthusiast exemplifies the values and opportunities nurtured during his time at the school. His experiences and accomplishments are a testament to the lasting impact of his HVGS education.