Education Week 2010
NSW Public Schools – leading the way

Principal for a Day is a program where business and community leaders experience first-hand a government school.

Willoughby Girls High School welcomed Mark Scott, Managing Director of the ABC, as Principal for a Day. Suzette Young, host Principal, said, "We were privileged to have Mark visit the school. To host such a prominent and well regarded community leader, who gave so generously of his time and knowledge, was a real delight." Mark taught a Year 10 English extension lesson, observed some senior classes, toured the school and gave some insights into the workings of the ABC over morning tea with the executive.

George Maltabarow, Managing Director of Energy Australia, participated in the Principal for a Day Program at Newington Public School. He spent the day with the school's principal Ian Adamson meeting some of the school's 418 students. On a tour of the school hosted by some Year 4 students Mr Maltabarow learnt about the school's Olympic heritage and solar power system.

The Environment Leadership Team at Nicholson Street Public School gave Verity Firth, Minister for Education and Training, some gardening tips in their vegetable garden as she spent the afternoon with the Principal, Abbey Proud.

Lynn Wood, Chairman Noni B Ltd, was introduced to North Sydney Demonstration School by Principal, Myra Wearne, and started the day discussing and sharing ideas about education, leadership and our children's future.

After talking to staff about technology and some of the exciting changes to children's learning, Lynn then took the time to enjoy observing year three children actively engaging in maths groups.

On Wednesday 4 August 2010, Principals for a Day, host principals, senior officers of the department, students and The Hon Verity Firth, Minister for Education and Training, participated in a forum to share experiences and discuss ways in which they intend to sustain their partnerships.

The forum's theme was 'Leading learning in our organisations' and was facilitated by Dr Keith Suter, broadcaster and writer.

Dr Fred Watson, Astronomer in Charge, Anglo-Australian Observatory, giving feedback with the Minister and Professor Geoff Scott from the University of Western Sydney.