Concordia Lutheran College Farewells a Quiet Giant of Teaching
After more than four decades shaping young minds, including 27 remarkable years at Concordia Lutheran College, long serving staff member Stephen Miegel is retiring from teaching.
For a man who has spent a lifetime helping students understand the complexities of the universe and the nature of God, his explanation for why he remained in the classroom for so long is beautifully simple.
“The most rewarding part about teaching is seeing the students come in as children and leave as adults. You are blessed to have been part of that growth,” he said.
Stephen began teaching in 1982, working across South Australia and Queensland before settling at Concordia in 1999. Since then, thousands of students have passed through his Physics, Science and Christian Studies classes, and many still credit him for opening doors to engineering, aviation, health and ministry.
His impact, however, reaches far beyond the timetable.
Stephen has served in numerous leadership roles at the College, including most recently as Head of Christian Studies, where he strengthened the curriculum, supported chapel life and guided students in exploring faith, ethics and service. He has been a Year Level Coordinator, Senior Subject Coordinator, Chapel Band organiser, musical supporter and a strong, steady presence at camps, services and College events.
“The students are really part of your family, an extended family,” he said. “I will miss seeing the teachers every day and being part of the students’ lives.”
The Concordia community also became part of Stephen’s own family story.
“My wife was a boarder at Concordia, and we had three children who all went through Concordia, and they all received a great education in terms of sport and academics. They all still meet with friends from school. We have a lot of great teachers here who are very caring and professional. The whole vibe of the school is caring. We have grown that culture,” he said.
Retirement will bring more time for music, gardening, reading and as he cheerfully admits, “finally cleaning up the shed.”
He hopes to keep in touch with his Year 11 Physics class and leaves his students with a message that has shaped his life and teaching.
“Know that God is with you. He walks beside you throughout your life.”
After 43 years of service, Concordia Lutheran College thanks Stephen Miegel for his commitment, leadership and the countless lives he has shaped through kindness, patience and steady faith.
His legacy will continue to live strongly within the College community.
