Budawang School principal: 'Goodbye'

After eight years, Mrs Bruffey is taking a well-deserved gap year. That’s a 12-month leave of absence, after which it is hoped she will return to her post, refreshed and ready to take on eight more.

At the school’s annual presentation night, Mrs Bruffey said: “Next year will be a very different year for me, but I know the school will be in good hands with our fabulous team of staff and support people.”

Mrs Bruffey has worked tirelessly in her role as an educator, but also as an advocate for the region’s children and families, living with disability and special needs.

It’s a demanding role, and Mrs Bruffey admits to feeling “tired” and in need of a break. However, she’s certainly not ruling out a return to the head chair, in 2019.

There were giggles and smiles from the teachers, who surprised their boss with a unique rendition of Harry Belafonte’s, Jamaican Farewell. And while great efforts were made to keep the smiles on for students, there were many an unshed tear by the end.

Mrs Bruffey told those gathered: “The total message here is that although we are a small school our classrooms and playgrounds extend way beyond those fences.

“The staff at Budawang School consider ourselves to be very fortunate to work with a school community like ours. We love working with you and your children. Their happiness and progress is more than just a job to us. Our students are known and held in high regard by the whole community and everyone in the community looks out for your kids.”

A replacement for her post is yet to be announced, but Mrs Bruffey does not anticipate change in terms of school policy or direction.

“It will be a breath of fresh air to have someone new in the principals chair for a while,” she said.

“I have to say though, that I will miss the school very much.”