From the Principal's Desk

Staff News: Head of Senior School, Jessica Zwarts

I would like to provide the community with an update regarding our Head of Senior School, Jessica Zwarts. 

Many in our community will be aware that that Jess has been on leave for the past two years, supporting her son, Hamish, through his cancer battle. Sadly, I need to inform you that Hamish passed away at the end of last term. Jess is comfortable for us to share this news with you. She knows there are others in our community facing incredibly difficult things and Jess wanted to express her sincere gratitude to the community for its incredible kindness and support throughout this time. This support has come in the form of kind words and actions, and also generous support of the GoFundMe page. Thank you to everyone who has reached out to Jess, or donated to the page.

Jess has been giving consideration, for some years now, to her next career steps. Anyone who has worked with Jess, or experienced her teaching and care of their children, knows that she is a highly-capable school leader and educator. Jess has indicated that she feels the timing is now right for her to continue exploring those next steps. As a result, she has informed me of her resignation from Overnewton, and from her role as Head of Senior School, effective from July this year.

Jess joined us in 2005, initially teaching in Year 9, and her 21 amazing years of service have included being a Health and Human Development teacher, Heads of House and Year Level Leader roles, Deputy Head of Senior School and the Head of Senior School from 2021. Thank you, Jess, for all you’ve brought to the students, staff and families of the College.

We wish Jess well for her next leadership adventure, confident that she will do remarkable things. 

I would like to congratulate Neil La Rocca, who has accepted the ongoing position of Head of Senior School. Neil has been exceptional in his stepping into the Acting role with care and agility over the past two years. His steady leadership of the School has been instrumental in our successful navigation throughout this period. I know that the Senior School staff and students will be excited for what lies ahead.