The best school in New South Wales

Dear parents and students,

In the last year or so, I've been fortunate to have opportunities to relieve as the Director, Educational Leadership for schools in the Woronora River and Bankstown networks.  This has presented me with new adventures and I've enjoyed supporting many principals in their important work.  Commencing in Term 3, I have been appointed to the permanent Director, Educational Leadership role for The Ponds, which means I am now officially leaving Cecil Hills High School.

Each and every day, I've missed Cecil Hills High School.  I've missed the dedicated staff who are the backbone of the school.  I've missed our wonderfully supportive parent community who have so much faith in the school.  I've missed our students, whether they be our strong academic achievers, our impressive student leaders, our excited support unit students or the hardworking majority.  It's certainly been an enriching experience for me and I only have fond memories of Cecil Hills High School.

From here, the NSW Department of Education will determine the next steps in filling the permanent principal position for Cecil Hills High School.  It has been an absolute pleasure to serve as the third principal of the school, following on from John McGregor and Sean Bowen.

Thanks to our wonderful SASS team in the front office and beyond.  Thanks to our Support Unit staff, our 'school within a school', for leading the way in special education.  Thanks to our executive team of head teachers for being an effective engine-room for our school and ensuring that we believe in success.  Thanks to our amazing, hardworking and dedicated teachers who are so inspiring.  Thanks to our young, bright and enthusiastic students.  Thanks to the senior executive team consisting of Julia Cremin, Joel Howard, Chris Lord and Adia Sahid.  A very special thanks to Michael Lane who has done a stellar job as Relieving Principal in my absence.

Anyone who has worked at Cecil Hills High School knows it is a truly special place.  Some call it 'The Cecil Family'.  As I used to include a quote from a musical in each newsletter item, I will leave you with the following from The Little Mermaid which is timely:

When's it my turn?

Wouldn't I love, love to explore that shore up above

Out of the sea, wish I could be, part of that world

As I officially leave to explore new seas and horizons, it's a pleasure to have been part of your world.  Best wishes for the future.

Mark Sutton

Relieving Director, Educational Leadership | Bankstown Principal Network 

Metropolitan South and West School Performance Directorate