Long gone are the days of school principals being a frightening figure you got sent to see when in trouble.
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Principals play a wide and important role when it comes to all things involved with education.
They are also that crucial link between the school and the wider community.
The Ulladulla region is lucky to have many great principals and we decided it was time to meet them.
So come with us as we meet Ulladulla High's Denise Lofts.
Principal: Denise Lofts
How long have you been at your current school?
"Nine years as principal - 2013 till now and prior to that 16 years as Visual Arts Head Teacher [six years in Sydney between HT and Principal].
What other schools have you taught at?
Cambridge Park High School (had 1375 students-at the time in 1988) in Western Sydney.
Ulladulla High from 1992-2006, of course, as head teacher vis-arts . I was appointed head teacher when I was only 27-years-of-age. I was the youngest on staff at the time and as head teacher, I had to back myself.
Rose Bay Secondary College as Head Teacher Admin and Deputy Principal, Marsden High School in the Inner west of Sydney as Principal and Gorokan High in the early years prior to my appointment to Cambridge Park HS. I said to the department I would take a position anywhere in the state, I got Cambridge Park.
What do you enjoy most about being a principal?
The positive influence that you can have on the lives of students, teachers and community. Education changes lives and communities. The Principal's role is one of the most crucial roles in our system.
What makes your school so special?
Of course the people, their passion for making a difference and the commitment to community. Our students are pretty special, they live in two worlds, one of ruralness and coastal life, along with being on the edge of a paradigm shift in education. Things are different today in education, young people are different to even four years ago.
How long have you been an educator?
Since 1988. I have worked in schools my whole working life, never had a Department of Education office job.
What are the types of issues students face these days?
Equity is a big issue. Some students amaze me on how they have nothing and work so hard to make something of themselves. Also the expectations on themselves to be something other than themselves. Particularly in response to the online world aka social media. It is a place that is not real. 'Just be you I say'."
So many students doubt their own abilities and potential. However I see so much potential. Our 'young people' is the biggest un tapped resource.
What was your favourite subject at school?
Actually it was mathematics, I had an amazing maths teacher, I loved the challenge of it. I also loved debating. However, I became a visual arts teacher."
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