The School Leadership Institute’s Principal Induction Conference (PIC) is expertly designed to support newly appointed principals from all school contexts. That support is something Principal of Royal North Shore Hospital School Siobhan King is thankful for after attending the Semester 1 PIC recently.

“I had the best in the business at my fingertips for 3 days to consult, guide and offer their expertise. This helped me challenge and guide my approach on aspects such as equity in education to leadership and the everyday complexities that will come across my desk,” she said. “The PIC helped me to shape and sustain a vision, ensuring every student has access to quality education and opportunities under my leadership.”

Developing skills and networking with colleagues

Siobhan was one of 8 Schools for Specific Purposes (SSPs) leaders who attended the recent PIC. Fellow SSP leader Harvey Wilson, Relieving Principal at Finigan School of Distance Education, said she also valued networking with colleagues throughout the conference.

“What I enjoyed most was the opportunity to deepen my understanding of the diverse support structures within the Department of Education,” she said. “Additionally, the PIC facilitated valuable networking with other principals on the same steep learning curve and scaffolded opportunities to share insights and strategies amongst ourselves.”

The PIC is a 3-day conference for newly appointed and relieving principals from public schools across NSW. It aims to enhance knowledge of the principal role, strengthen understanding of leadership practices, develop professional connections and enhance awareness of system supports.

Leadership in diverse school contexts

Siobhan was appointed as substantive principal at RNSH School in September last year after relieving in the role since June 2023. She said the most rewarding part of her role is seeing students succeed despite the health challenges they face.

“Whether it’s completing their HSC despite adversity, grasping a difficult concept, or simply engaging in lessons despite the unpredictability of their circumstances - education provides a sense of normality and structure in an environment that can often be stressful and unpredictable,” she said.

Harvey, who has been at her school since 2020 and relieving in the principal role for 9 months, says opportunity to innovate and redefine quality teaching and learning for a diverse student group is the most rewarding aspect of her role.

“At Finigan, staff and students engage in robust reflective practices and make adjustments when needed to ensure our work is meaningful and effectively addresses the learning needs of each student,” she said. “This shared commitment to continuous improvement fosters a learning culture where every student feels supported, challenged, and empowered to succeed.”

A total of 73 newly appointed and relieving principals from schools across NSW attended the Semester 1 PIC. The Semester 2 PIC will be held on 30 July to 1 August. Registrations will open early in Term 2.

DoE staff can learn more about the PIC, including how to register for the Semester 2 conference, at Principal Induction Conference.