In the world of education, a principal wears many hats, but at the core, they remain an educator. My role from teacher to principal may have evolved, but the essence of teaching—guiding, inspiring, and nurturing—remains unchanged. Take, for instance, a moment from my early days as a principal. An experienced Head of Department, grappling with the notion of data-informed practice. We discussed “why” and “how” (as in why are you doing that and how do you know it is working), but more importantly, we explored the philosophy of teaching beyond the curriculum. It was a teaching moment not just for her, but for me as well, reinforcing the idea that my job is to educate leaders and teachers, as well as students. This experience is a testament to the fact that whether I'm mentoring an aspirant or devising policies with my leadership team, I am, at heart, still a teacher. The classroom may look different, and the lessons more diverse, but the goal is the same: to facilitate growth and learning in every interaction. As principals, we teach through our decisions, our empathy, and our vision for the school's future. We are the educators of educators, shaping not just student minds, but also the perspectives of those who lead them. Note: We do also go in classrooms and cover lessons. #LeadershipInEducation #PrincipalAsTeacher #EducationalLeadership #TeachQld #Ambassador #TeachStGeorgeSHS #education #leadership St George State High School , Queensland Department of Education
Thank sir also reminding how greatful we are as Teacher. I'am who I'am today because of my Teachers back then. Really Teacher is a Noble Profession ❤❤❤❤
WOW! Exemplary leadership in practice. Reminds me of the best principal I worked with. I affectionately called him 'Boss' and his executive team, 'The Magnificent Seven'.
Makes sense!
Thanks for sharing
Heck yes! I loved reading this.
Thanks for sharing Thomas, as always inspiring and reaching for better. 😊
Thanks for sharing
So well said Thomas and a great reflection 😊
So brilliant
Founder/Director at YXL Institute
4moThis is awesome! Thanks for sharing this reflection! I am going to share this with some of the aspirants I work with who say “I love teaching, I am not sure I want to become a leader.” On a side note, I visited St George as a high school student in 1998 when my brother Nathan Exelby was editor of the Balonne Beacon early in his journalist career, a great memory for me. He said one of the first people to make him feel welcome was the then Principal. Keep up the fantastic work Thomas.