On behalf of the Emanuel School Board, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Andrew Watt as the new Principal of Emanuel School, effective from 15 January 2018.
Mr Watt has over 22 years’ experience in senior leadership roles in education and is joining Emanuel School from Wenona School, an independent non-denominational day and boarding school for girls from Kindergarten to Year 12, where he has held the position of Deputy Principal for the last five years. During this time he also served as acting Principal for a total of 7 months.
The process for the selection of our new Principal was very extensive and the Board was delighted with the level of interest shown by many highly qualified candidates, which is an indication of the standing of Emanuel School in the eyes of the education community. We are confident that under Mr Watt’s leadership, the School will rise to new heights of excellence, continuing to build on the strong foundation established by Dr Bruce Carter and Ms Anne Hastings over the past 16 years.
Mr Watt has a wealth of experience from schools, both co-educational and single sex. He has held significant senior executive positions, including as a consultant for Roseville College, and as Deputy and Acting Principal of The Scots College, where he was previously Head of Senior School. He has a Bachelor of Education (Physical Education and Health), as well as a Master of Educational Leadership from Macquarie University.
Passionate about maintaining a culture of excellence and innovation, along with instilling a lifelong love of learning in an inclusive environment, Mr Watt has considerable experience in fostering conditions in which “students are developed and nurtured as successful learners and confident and creative individuals, with a heartfelt commitment to service within the wider community”.
“Our goal as educators is to provide engaging and challenging learning experiences that prepare our students for a dynamic and collaborative workplace and life beyond school,” Mr Watt said. “Being part of a learning community that provides a strong sense of belonging and connectedness, where students believe that the staff care about them as individuals, as well as their learning, are key attributes of a flourishing school.”
Described by his colleagues as a “man of deep honour” and “one of nature’s gentlemen”, Mr Watt also has considerable leadership experience in pastoral care, professional development of staff, strategic planning and management. Married with two adult sons, he enjoys playing soccer and golf, is an avid reader, and is actively involved in community service.
Adam Blackman
President of the School Board