Hello Everyone

I would like to say what a privilege it is to be at Kingston Primary. The students are absolutely delightful and the staff are very welcoming. I’ve met a number of parents and they’ve all been lovely too. So thank you to everyone for making my start at KPS fantastic.

I’ve spent the last 21 years in the Pilbara based in Newman. During my time in Newman, I worked across all three schools including the high school. My last 12 years were spent at South Newman Primary where I was the principal since mid-2016. I have four sons who I’m very proud of and who I adore. I bought my forever home down here a few years ago and look forward to learning more about the Kingston community each day.

Yesterday we had two external reviewers from the Education Department come and conduct the Public School Review for KPS.  The review process is something every public school in WA does to support the school’s ongoing self-assessment and reflect on current practices. It provides schools with the opportunity to consider how they are going, what do they know and what are they going to do to improve. Areas within the school that are focused on are categorised into six domains: Relationships and Partnerships, Learning Environment. Leadership, Use of Resources, Teaching Quality and Student Achievement and Progress.  Evidence and impact submissions on the domains are uploaded to the system for the reviewers to consider and then on “review day” they interview a number of staff, students and parents to verify what is happening in the school. At the end of the day, the reviewers sit with the leadership team and give their summary of the school and offer recommendations along with commendations. It is with pleasure I share with you that the reviewers felt there is a strong moral purpose at KPS where everyone cares about the students and wants what is best for them. They were impressed with what they heard and saw, and are keen to see improved student performance data.  Overall the experience was positive and will greatly assist in moving KPS forward with greater outcomes for the students. I sincerely thank the staff. parents and students who contributed to the school review.

I would like to acknowledge and thank Mr Peter Jones who was steering the KPS ship while the Principal recruitment process was being undertaken. Mr Jones is a retired principal with a vast range of experience who supported the KPS team. Mr Jones ensured I had a thorough handover of information about KPS which I’m grateful for. We all wish Peter the very best as he resumes enjoying his retirement.

Finally, I am here with the staff to help make your child’s life at KPS the best it can be. If ever you have a concern, query or suggestion please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Kind regards

Katie Wallace