From the Principal

If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work, and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.

These words, penned by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, capture the essence of what it means to lead a community like Pittwater House. As we stand at the threshold of the 2026 academic year, we find ourselves at a symbolic shoreline. The familiar comforts of the summer holidays, our "safe harbor" behind us, and the expansive horizon of a new school year ahead.

As I begin my tenure as Principal of Pittwater House, my primary goal is to ensure we are charting a course that is ambitious and purposeful. In education, as in sailing, we must appreciate that growth only occurs when we possess the collective courage to move into deeper waters. This transition requires us to embrace the natural uncertainty that comes with change, whether that be a new year level, new friendships, teacher's and Principal along with the rigorous learning challenges that lie ahead both in the classroom and beyond.

I am learning quickly that Pittwater House is a school with a unique tapestry of individuals who, together, form a community committed to the pursuit of excellence. These are exhilarating times as we begin this fresh adventure. However, charting a new course does not mean discarding our compass. Our heritage remains the beating heart of our community, and our core values provide the stable foundation upon which we build our future.

So, what have I come to appreciate as your new Principal in my first 4 weeks at Pittwater House School? 

Members of our community clearly exhibit a strong sense of belonging and it is evident our students and staff feel a deep and authentic connection to our larger story. Secondly, there is a desire to reflect upon and refine our educational offerings guided through an ethos of continuous improvement. For myself and our leadership team, a guiding question has emerged in our conversations Will this make our boat go faster and how can we go further together?  Clarity and consistency will be key elements of our direction.

This nautical metaphor seems apt in a setting so close to the beautiful coast of the Northern Beaches. A special place for learning. 

I am deeply honoured to be your new Principal as we set sail. Together, let us embrace the journey.