The Hurlstone Centre

Welcome to The Hurlstone Centre

Advancing research and professional growth in education.

The Hurlstone Centre for Research and Professional Growth is an initiative of Trinity Grammar School. We are a hub for School-initiated research and teacher professional learning, committed to fostering curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement in education.

Explore our work, connect with our team, download our brochure, and discover how we’re shaping the future of teaching and learning—within Trinity and beyond.

About Us

The Hurlstone Centre is embedded in the daily life of Trinity Grammar School and serves as a dynamic space for research and professional learning. We bring together educators across campuses and partner with schools, universities, and organisations to grow research culture and capacity.

Our Team

Dr Kimberley Pressick-Kilborn

Head of Research and Professional Growth (P–12)

Debbie Williams

Deputy Headmaster (Academic)

Natalie Bluhdorn

Dean of Professional Pathways

Each year, Trinity staff are invited to become Centre Associates through an Expression of Interest process. Associates collaborate on projects and initiatives that advance our shared goals.

External Advisory Group

Our External Advisory Group (EAG) meets twice annually to provide strategic guidance. Members include teacher education academics and university researchers from diverse backgrounds.

Professor Emerita Robyn Ewing, University of Sydney

Scientia Professor Andrew Martin, University of New South Wales

Professor Phil Cummins, University of Sydney

Associate Professor Chrissy Monteleone, La Trobe University

Associate Professor Johanna Harris, Australian Catholic University

Associate Professor Paul Kidson, Australian Catholic University

Associate Professor Christine Grice, Senior Lecturer, University of Sydney

Dr Simon Breakspear, Adjunct Senior Lecturer, University of New South Wales

The Reverend Dr Ed Loane, St Paul’s College, University of Sydney

The Reverend Dr Dan Wu, Moore Theological College

Our Purpose

We bring people together with research and researchers to equip educators to grow everyday practice – within and beyond Trinity Grammar School.

Promote engagement with education research to drive growth and improvement

Initiate and conduct research to inform decisions and evaluate programs

Enhance learning and research capacity for students and staff

Spark curiosity and inquiry across our community

Support career-long professional growth for educators

Build partnerships with schools, universities, and organisations

Share knowledge locally, nationally, and globally

Our Work

Within Trinity Grammar School

  • Lead a coherent approach to research and professional growth
  • Support staff in initiating and conducting research aligned with teaching and learning priorities
  • Facilitate Professional Learning Teams to build research capacity
  • Deliver workshops and programs for teachers at all career stages
  • Encourage further study and research engagement
  • Provide research-informed advice to senior leaders
  • Collaborate with the Arthur Holt Library and primary campus libraries to foster inquiry

Beyond Trinity Grammar School

  • Build purposeful partnerships with schools, universities, and organisations
  • Advocate for school-led and practitioner research
  • Contribute to local, national, and international education dialogue, including boys’ education and school–university partnerships

Focus Areas

Research Domains (2026–2027)

  • Place-based Learning
  • Collaborative & Flexible Spaces
  • Character Formation
  • Student Wellbeing

Professional Growth Priorities (2026–2027)

  • Innovative Learning Environments
  • Career Framework
  • Mentoring & Coaching
  • Internship Program
  • Women Leading in Boys’ Schools

Our Latest News

Contact Us

If you have a partnership or general enquiry about our research, please complete the following form.

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Trinity Grammar School is a founding member for the International Boys’ School Coalition

Trinity Grammar School is a founding member for the International Boys’ School Coalition