The Gap SHS Recognised for Excellence in Australian Education Awards
The Gap State High School is proud to announce, our Principal, Mrs Anne McLauchlan has been shortlisted for Principal of The Year (Government) in the Australian Education Awards.
This award recognises the most outstanding principal of a government secondary or Kindy to Year 12 school in Australia.
The Education Awards, Principal of the Year is judged on:
- Effective leadership and motivation of staff
- Commitment to professional development (self and staff)
- Academic and other achievements during the 2022 school year
- Leadership of innovation and change within the school
- Engagement with parents and the wider school community
It is a significant achievement to be shortlisted with the Australian Education Awards, and we are extremely proud of Anne's achievements.
For more information on the Excellence Awards and to book tickets visit: https://educatorawards.com/
About Anne
As an educational leader, Anne has achieved remarkable results by implementing various initiatives and strategies to improve student learning and well-being. One of her notable achievements was The Gap State High School being named a State Finalist in 2022 for a Showcase Award by the Department of Education. This recognition was a testament to the positive impact of her leadership on student outcomes by supporting staff to develop The Gap SHS contextualised pedagogical framework- Teaching for Innovative Learning.
One of her successful initiatives crafted "Time4 Collaboration" during school hours, which is providing opportunities for staff collaboration to delve into systematic curriculum delivery and provide alternative activities for students to participate in and foster student learning and well-being. This initiative resulted in a more collaborative, cohesive and aligned staff and pedagogy with the intent on improving student engagement and academic performance.
Anne is a key driver of forging a peer review concept with two local schools, so far and has received support from the KYRA Alliance in the United Kingdom. This collaboration is intended to provide opportunities for teachers to learn from one another and share best practices, leading to improved teaching and learning outcomes across all schools involved.
Anne's leadership achievements include successfully implementing a program to support middle leaders in participating in instructional rounds, resulting in increased collaboration and improved teaching practices. Additionally, she has played a key role in promoting staff well-being through the implementation of Positive Education initiatives at The Gap State High School, resulting in a more positive and supportive work environment.
A key component of Anne's Leadership is her ability to consult , collaborate with stakeholders and take on feedback to implement a cycle of continuous improvement. She has established "Cuppa Sessions" with parents to engage the community to showcase the opportunities their young people can access and what is occurring in the school. Anne's determination to create links with the community, regularly consulting with parents and community members to gain their feedback and support is inspiring and courageous.
Anne's visionary and adaptive leadership approach has enabled her to take on feedback, measure risks well, and support staff and students alike. This year she has encouraged students to write, lead and present a school musical which will showcase a large number of students. Supporting, a student run coffee shop to foster skills and leadership development.
In summary, Anne's leadership achievements and results have been demonstrated through various initiatives that have improved student outcomes and promoted a positive school culture.