Phuong Truong first arrived in Australia with her family as refugees from Vietnam. Now a Deputy Principal at Yeronga State High School, she draws upon her experiences to support students and staff, including those who, like her, have roots overseas.
When starting out, Phuong built a career in the fashion industry before deciding to enter education. She returned to university and completed a Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Art) and Bachelor of Education (Secondary). ‘I wanted to bring together my creative background with a genuine interest in connecting with young people and supporting them to make positive changes in their lives.’
After starting her career at MacGregor State High School, she was offered a job at Yeronga State High School in 2009.
‘Yeronga State High School recognised my interest and strengths in working with students learning English as an additional language (EAL/D) and gave me the opportunity to join the EAL/D team. That experience led me to return to part-time study to complete a Graduate Certificate in TESOL, as I was committed to developing my skills and better supporting these learners.’
In addition to working extensively in EAL/D she has also served as Yeronga State High School’s Gifted and Talented Coordinator, Year Level Coordinator and across several Head of Department roles, including English, EAL/D, Junior Secondary and Humanities, and Business.
‘These roles gave me valuable experience across curriculum, pedagogy, staff development and whole-school improvement. These opportunities ultimately led to my substantive appointment as Head of Department, Senior Schooling and then Deputy Principal, Senior Schooling, where I led senior pathways, curriculum and post-school pathways. The department provides strong opportunities for professional development for all staff. I’ve been fortunate to take part in a range of professional development, which has helped me build my skills, strengthen my practice and grow both as a teacher in the classroom and as a school leader.’
In 2024, she even had the opportunity to work in the Department of Education’s central office as a Principal Education Officer. ‘It was an invaluable experience that broadened my perspective and strengthened my practice, while also reinforcing my passion for working directly with young people in schools.’
Looking back, Phuong reflects on the generosity of others who were willing to share their time, knowledge and encouragement. ‘It’s reinforced for me how important it is to do the same for others, by supporting emerging leaders, building capacity and creating a culture where people feel safe to learn, try and grow. That kind of openness made a big difference to my early development and encouraged me to step into leadership opportunities myself.’
One of the highlights each year for Phuong is ‘Yeronga Celebrates’, the school’s biannual event showcases and honours the rich diversity of the community and brings together more than 60 nationalities through cultural performances, food, music and shared experiences.
‘Yeronga SHS is a place with a real heart and sense of community, which is a big part of why I’ve stayed for so long. It’s a school that values inclusion and celebrates cultural diversity, and that creates a welcoming environment for both students and staff. What’s been most important, is that even with this growth, the school hasn’t lost its sense of identity. When students enrol at Yeronga, I often say they’re joining a family.’
Teachers and school leaders like Phuong play a valuable role in supporting students from refugee backgrounds to reach their full potential and find pathways where they can succeed.
She reflects on the support her family received as refugees. ‘We were supported by community organisations and services, but just as importantly, we were welcomed by Australian families, the Bradleys and the Burns. The relationships we built with them have lasted a lifetime. We will always be deeply grateful for their kindness, patience and guidance, especially during a time when everything—language, culture and daily life—felt unfamiliar and overwhelming.’
‘Having the right support in place can make a real difference in helping people rebuild their lives and improve both educational and wellbeing outcomes, not only for themselves but their families. It’s also important to recognise that this is not just about support from the Australian community—it’s a mutual relationship. Refugees also bring enormous strengths, experiences and cultural richness that contribute to and strengthen the communities they become part of.’
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