Gaynor Borlase
Box Hill South
Summary
Dynamic and outcomes-driven education leader with strong track record in designing and delivering large-scale performing arts programs, events, and initiatives across school and community settings. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage complex projects and budgets, and engage diverse stakeholders. Passionate about creating inclusive educational experiences and building sustainable programs that enhance student and community outcomes.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Performing Arts – Program Manager
Ringwood Secondary College
01.2023 - Current
- Designed and led the college’s performing arts programs across curriculum and co-curricular areas, aligning with whole-school strategic goals.
- Managed end-to-end delivery of biannual major musical productions involving 110+ participants; directed teams across logistics, creative direction, and stakeholder coordination.
- Effectively manage cross-functional teams—including creative, design, and student support staff—by fostering collaboration, aligning goals across roles, and building individual capacity through targeted SMART goal setting.
- Oversaw budget planning and financial reporting for all major productions and events.
- Introduced successful community engagement initiatives, including Alumni Nights and Launch BBQs, increasing volunteer involvement and ticket revenue.
- Built staff and student leadership capacity through mentoring, shared planning, and delegated responsibilities in production, and event management.
- Oversee student participation and wellbeing across programs by liaising with coordinators and external partners to ensure safety, engagement, and inclusivity. Maintain accurate records of student involvement and achievements and coordinate recognition opportunities through assemblies and school events.
- Earned multiple Victorian Theatre Guild and Lyrebird Award nominations, winning Best Choreography, Outstanding Dance Number, and Best Ensemble in 2023.
- Oversaw maintenance of performance spaces, ensuring safety standards were consistently met for all events.
- Managed budget allocations for performing arts initiatives, optimizing spending while maintaining program quality.
- Mentored emerging artists, providing guidance on professional development and career opportunities in the performing arts industry.
- Elevated production quality through consistent evaluation and feedback sessions with performers and creative teams.
Performing Arts Coordinator- Assistant program manager
Ringwood Secondary College
01.2022 - 01.2022
- Coordinated project administration and logistics, including scheduling, documentation, and internal communications to ensure smooth team operations and project delivery.
- Coordinated interschool performing arts initiatives, liaising with district schools for performance collaborations, resource sharing.
Performance Assessor
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA)
01.2019 - 01.2022
- Assessed senior-level student performance works in accordance with VCAA standards, contributing to fair and rigorous outcomes.
Head of Learning Area- Curriculum Program Coordinator
Ringwood Secondary College
01.2017 - 01.2021
- Coordinated curriculum design and implementation across Dance, Drama, and Music; led team planning, moderation processes, and assessment integrity.
- Introduced data-informed teaching strategies and managed faculty-wide professional learning.
- Successfully advocated for and implemented a new Year 7 Drama program.
- Strengthened student enrolments and academic outcomes through continuous improvement cycles.
Performing Arts Tour- Assistant Director
Ringwood Secondary College
03.2019 - 04.2019
- Co-directed international performing arts tours across 7 countries; managed travel logistics, tour planning, student engagement, risk assessments, and performances.
- Developed strong partnerships with overseas schools and cultural institutions.
- Liaised with families and student support services to ensure student welfare, engagement, and effective management throughout the tour.
Classroom teacher & Subject coordinator
Ringwood Secondary College
01.2014 - 01.2016
- Delivered curriculum across Dance, Drama, Psychology, Health, and Literacy Support. Provided pastoral care and coordinated subject planning and assessment. Led year-level engagement programs and supported staff in delivering inclusive, student-focused learning aligned with school priorities.
Overseas employment
ANZUK
01.2018 - 11.2018
- Sydenham School – South East London | Jan–Jul 2018 Taught Dance (Years 7–9, BTEC, and A-Level) at an all-girls school during a 6-month maternity cover. Led after-school dance company rehearsals and provided casual relief teaching as needed.
- The Moat School – Fulham, London | Sep–Nov 2018 Taught Performing Arts at a special needs school on a short-term contract. Delivered life-skills classes to a focus group, supporting students in building confidence and interpersonal skills.
Education
Bachelor of Arts (Distinction)/ Bachelor of Education (Distinction) -
Deakin University
01.2013
Certificate IV in Training & Assessment - TAE40116
Elmo Training
04-2019
No Degree - Mental Health First Aid, Pilates Instruction, Student Trauma Response, Differentiation, Leadership & Team Building
Professional Development
Skills
- Comprehensive project management
- Stakeholder communication
- Budget management
- Cross-functional team management
- Volunteer management
- Program design and execution
- Risk management expertise
- Strategic planning
- Data analysis and reporting
- Public speaking expertise
- Positive interpersonal skills
- Collaborative teamwork
- Analytical problem-solving
Awards
Award-Winning Choreography: Multiple Victorian Theatre Guild & Lyrebird Awards, Top Class Selections (VET/VCE Dance): 2017, 2020–2023
Timeline
Director of Performing Arts – Program Manager
Ringwood Secondary College
01.2023 - Current
Performing Arts Coordinator- Assistant program manager
Ringwood Secondary College
01.2022 - 01.2022
Performing Arts Tour- Assistant Director
Ringwood Secondary College
03.2019 - 04.2019
Performance Assessor
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA)
01.2019 - 01.2022
Overseas employment
ANZUK
01.2018 - 11.2018
Head of Learning Area- Curriculum Program Coordinator
Ringwood Secondary College
01.2017 - 01.2021
Classroom teacher & Subject coordinator
Ringwood Secondary College
01.2014 - 01.2016
Bachelor of Arts (Distinction)/ Bachelor of Education (Distinction) -
Deakin University
Certificate IV in Training & Assessment - TAE40116
Elmo Training
No Degree - Mental Health First Aid, Pilates Instruction, Student Trauma Response, Differentiation, Leadership & Team Building
Professional Development
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