Executive Principal 

We have just commenced a new season of learning at Leighland. The first semester lies behind us and we look forward with anticipation to the activities and events that will fill the second half of this year. In relation to that I draw attention to a few matters of significance to be aware of and to keep in mind in your engagement with the school. 

As of the start of Term 3, the Learning Support Area of Leighland will be managed by two people, Mrs Mel Braddock (Primary) and Mrs Myriama McNab (Secondary). Till now the area has been managed by Mrs Myriama McNab. Mindful, however, that it is a big role that has expanded over the years, and that Mrs McNab worked part time, it was important to split that role over two people. 

Parents are requested to direct their contact to the appropriate person, going forward. If there is a need to connect with Learning Support personnel, contact Mrs Braddock for your Primary students and Mrs McNab for your Secondary students. 

Along with that we are revising the processes surrounding how students can access the services of Learning Support, as well as the processes surrounding the learning program of students where Learning Support is involved.  When it comes to student learning, the close working together of parents and staff is critical; when that involves learning support it is even more critical.  We are directing staff to follow the different protocols in relation to parent contact, and we hope that parents will also fulfil their obligations.  All in all, we want a close working relationship, based on common understandings and agreements, knowing that this works best for the learning and growth of the students.  What we strive for at Leighland is to ensure that all students can and will learn in accordance with the gifts and talents they have been endowed with. 

We have also just released information on leadership vacancies in the school. Dr Katrina McNab will take on the role of Director of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum and Mr Patrick Fabian will take on the role of Campus Principal at Ulverstone. Those changes will be implemented at the start of Term 4 of this year.  This is a significant development for Leighland.  In view of the changes that Leighland has gone through in the past years, and the changes which may be in the offing, it was felt important to appoint known (and suitable) people who are suitable to these roles.  That takes away any potential unrest with new people, different directions and different approaches. It’s my firm conviction that these appointments will help Leighland move forward to being the best school that it can be. 

Worth noting is that Learning Support, as of Term 4, will fall under the Director of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum. This will give real impetus to looking at the best approaches for learning, when there are obstacles to learning, and to ensure that the various processes are well managed. 

We seek strong support for the adjustments at the school.  It concerns the learning and the wellbeing of your children and the children of your community.  How blessed we are to be able to make a difference in this important space. 

Alwyn Terpstra

Executive Principal