Hero photograph
 
Photo by Kathryn Eagle

Meet Matt

Matthew Grueber —

The newest member of the Community Office is no stranger to the hallways and history of St Bede's. Matthew Grueber attended the College as a day pupil from 1998 to 2002 and so brings a valuable perspective to his work for the school and for the Old Boys' Association in the print and digital space. We are thrilled to have Matt join us and thought we would take a moment to have him introduce himself. 

Life has certainly taken Matt down an exciting path as you are about to find out....

What have you been up to since leaving St Bede’s in 2002 Matt?

Since leaving St Bede’s, I graduated from Massey University in Wellington with a degree in Fine Arts with honours. I have worked in Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland in a range of creative roles including Print, Web Design, and Special Effects.

Tell us about your new role in the Community Office?

My new role in the Community Office is to Design and publish collateral and branded materials across all print and digital platforms for the College and St Bede’s Community, including our Old Boys. I will be making sure that all material is current, up to date, within brand guidelines and represents the values of St Bede’s College.

As a St Bede’s Old Boy, what does it feel like to be back at as an employee?

A lot has changed at the college in the 20 years since I left St Bede’s. There is still the warmth and supportive nature that I enjoyed as a student, and it gives me great joy to know St Bede’s College will again be part of my daily life.

When you look back at your time at St Bede’s who or what inspired you in your initial life choices?

I have fond memories of my time in computing class. My teacher, James McGifford encouraged my classmates and me to explore the then-emerging digital media technology. We were given opportunities to design websites, posters, and logos. James also took us on a course to YooBee (Natcoll) to introduce us to 3D digital art. This was the first step on a journey that would lead to a role at Weta Digital in Wellington.

What were some of the different career choices you thought of when you were leaving school and who helped you make your decision at that time?

During the early years of my time at St Bede’s I really wasn’t sure what direction I wanted to take my career but I was always interested in computers and graphic design.

I’m fortunate to have had the experiences I did in my computing classes which changed the way I thought about my future career.

When you look back has there been a defining moment in your career path?

A defining moment in my career path was being able to design the 2002 St Bede’s Bedean cover. Looking at the cover now, there are perhaps some design elements I may not have used. However, I remember how exciting it was to work on something that would be part of the history of St Bede’s.

Would you like to share a career highlight with us?

A career highlight for me was seeing my name in the credits of the movie “Rise of the Planet of the Apes”. This was the first of six Hollywood blockbuster movies I worked on during my two years at Weta; Tin Tin, Mr Pip, The Hobbit, Man of Steel, and Prometheus.

What words of advice would you give young students today?

I would encourage young students today to take every opportunity, to get involved with as many groups or team events as they can. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, you never know where it may lead. 


Welcome aboard Matt, it's great to have you as part of the team!