A Bunbury principal has beaten hundreds from across WA to be named a finalist in this year’s Education Awards.
Newton Moore Senior High School’s principal Sue Kerr has a one in four chance of being named 2018 Principal of the Year after 14 years leading the school.
“It’s great that I’m getting recognition but it wouldn’t happen if it wasn’t for the staff, the students and the great programs we have at the school because really a principal couldn’t be selected if that wasn't part of the criteria,” she said.
“We’re very innovative and we do lots of programs that other schools might not do, we’re really into STEM and we do lots of programs with our Indigenous students in living and leading, so that really makes us unique.
“We try to make sure our students are globally aware and ready for the future.”
Ms Kerr said she had seen many changes during her time as principal from staff coming and going to the addition of new buildings, always focusing on staying at the forefront of education for her students.
“It’ll be very exciting for the school (if I win) because it’s recognition of the hard work that everybody has put in and I’m really grateful,” she said.
“We’re always looking at new courses and making sure our students are work ready.
It’s the first time Ms Kerr has been nominated with almost 40 years of experience in education, with the school board and a staff member putting her name forward for the coveted title.
“My personal philosophy is very much about equity not equality and that is something I strongly believe in, I believe that students need to come first and I believe that it’s a people business,” she said.
“I love education and I’ve always worked in schools where there have been different types of challenges and seeing students work really hard.”
Newton Moore Senior High School’s head of maths Ashley Stewart was also named a finalist for Secondary teacher of the year.
The school’s Education Support Centre is also in the running for WA Secondary School of the Year along with Manea Senior College.
Winners will be announced on November 26.
