The winner of the 2015 Finch Memoir Prize

At the beginning of Schools of Fish, Alan Sampson is very much a man bent on success. As a very strict high school principal he was renowned for transforming weak schools into centres of academic and sporting excellence. But the long hours took their toll on his home life. As his marriage ended and his family was torn apart, he was given charge of a troubled city high school on a downward spiral; to make matters worse, in this school was one of the most troublesome students he had ever come across … his own son, Greg.

As Alan strove to find a way to tame his son’s behavioural problems at school and at home, he and Greg battled each other as well as the ingrained obstacles in the education system. Only when they both found the courage to step outside the rules did they find their way through to each other … and realised that the best education in life can often be found outside the school system.

Alan says, ‘I wrote my story to show how life’s lessons should shape our education system. The individual should shape the system rather than the reverse. Every child needs a champion. This experience has given me a greater understanding and appreciation for the role school and my family have played in making me a better educator and person.‘

About the author

Alan Sampson has worked in the education department in Queensland for 30 years as a teacher, high school principal, Inspector of Schools and Assistant Regional Director. He is the proud father of four children and enjoys spending his spare time surfing, travelling and writing.