A small school with a big heart.
That’s how new principal Leanne Jarlett sees her latest posting at Largs Public.
The Hunter educator is one of eight leaders to step into the top job throughout the region and Central Coast as term one begins in 2024.
Joining Ms Jarlett are Melanie Johnson (Pelican Flat Public), Sarah Turnbull (Newcastle Middle), Pauline Smith (Tanilba Bay Public), Deanne Brown (Tenambit Public), Kristen Kime (Denman Public) and Simon Mulready (Kurri Kurri Public).
Wadalba Community welcomed Carlie Wells to the Central Coast, too.
“I’m very excited, it’s my first permanent principal’s role,” Ms Jarlett said.
“I am loving the amazing staff who are here.
“The school’s filled with such wonderful teachers, who are great at what they do, and beautiful children.
“Honestly, we’re so blessed here.
“I’m really looking forward to being able to connect community with our school and just having that wraparound support for all our kids.”
Largs Public, in the Maitland LGA, boasts more than 150 pupils.
And, Ms Jarlett is eager to nurture their learning during their school years.
“My initial appointment was at Nillo Infants, in Lorn, and we would come here as another small school,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.
“There were only two classes [at Largs] back in the 90s.
“So, from then until now, it’s gone from one class originally up to seven… and it’s continuing to grow.
“I was at Greta Public in an instructional leadership position, which sort of led me to principalship.
“Then I did 12 months out at Tarro Public, relieving.
“Now, I’m at Largs in my first permanent position.
“So, it’s a school close to my heart.
“I’m keen to integrate the children with community.
“But, to start with, it’s very much ‘take a step back and take time to observe’.
“I’ll then look at what priorities need to be put into place to keep what is already amazing going even further.”
Across NSW, 77 new principals have started meeting students, staff and families to outline their leadership priorities for the year.
Of the newcomers, 41 are leading schools in regional, rural and remote areas of the state while 36 are beginning at faculties in the Sydney metropolitan district.
Research shows that effective leaders have a substantial impact on pupil results.
The role also includes steering staff improvement and fostering community engagement.
“The new principals will bring plenty of energy, expertise and ideas to the roles,” NSW Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said.
“I know that they can’t wait to get started.
“NSW public school principals play an important role in our local communities, guiding our students through their educational journeys and transforming lives through learning.
“I am confident they will lead with dignity and kindness, setting our youngsters up with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.”
NSW Department of Education secretary Murat Dizdar echoed those sentiments.
“It’s my pleasure to welcome our 77 new principals to their respective schools for the start of 2024,” he said.
“I know they will be exceptional role models to staff by improving the quality of learning and engagement of our students.
“Our principals are the driving force behind creating a positive and inclusive learning environment that empowers teachers and inspires children to reach their full potential.”
For more community stories:
- Future looks bright for young Hunter lifesavers
- New Hunter study aims to unlock the secrets of effective stress management
- Charity’s new boutique dressed for success
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