JUSTIN Colville has been appointed the new principal at St Joseph’s Primary School in Kerang.
Mr Colville is a born and bred local boy who has lived most of his life in Kerang, departing briefly to study teaching in Bendigo then beginning his teaching career at the Kerang Technical High School.
He is in his seventh year at St Joseph’s teaching the senior students in Year 5 and 6, and will continue in a dual role of teacher and principal until the end of the year.
Mr Colville said it was exciting to be selected to take on the leadership role at the school and although it was still early days, he wanted to continue to foster the school’s growth and relationships with the community.
“It’s a big step, I’m looking forward to the change and doing something a little different,” he said.
“I will still be in the classroom two days a week for the remainder of the year, which is actually a good thing as I transition into the role.
“Still being connected with the classroom is good and we have a good flexibility with the staff and the structure.”
Mr Colville pointed to the school community, the kids and the high-quality staff at the school as some of the highlights of his experience at the school.
The school has 128 students and 22 staff and Mr Colville said the collaboration with staff and the ability to work so closely with the tightknit team was one aspect he had enjoyed in the time he has been at the school. He was looking forward to that continuing.
“Having the students’ learning at the forefront of everything we do is really great – it’s really good to see the kids’ growth,” Mr Colville said.
“Everyone is on the same page – parents, kids and teachers – and it makes a big difference.
“We have a good community with the parents and the parish, and I plan to continue to grow those relationships.
“There is a very welcoming community.
“It’s what St Joseph’s is known for, and I want keep that going.”
