Twenty-nine Head Teachers and Assistant Principals from across the South Coast have met at Ulladulla Public School to develop the leadership skills vital to school success.

The Director of the School Leadership Institute (SLI), Joanne Jarvis, said this year’s first two-day Regional, Rural and Remote Middle Leaders Program (RRRMLP) conference provided participants with practical leadership strategies and networking opportunities.

Head Teachers and Assistant Principals play a unique part as they have the dual responsibilities of teaching students in the classroom while also leading colleagues.

“As public schools constantly aim to develop the skills and knowledge of students, we know it is equally important to do the same with our staff, because it is through strong leadership that improvement comes,” said Ms Jarvis.

“Giving middle leaders a firm foundation and support to build their leadership knowledge, understanding and capacity is vital to maintain the improvement in student outcomes, attendance and wellbeing.

“Including face-to-face contact in this professional development is particularly important for regional, rural and remote staff, who may not always have the same opportunities as their metropolitan colleagues.”

The SLI delivers leadership induction conferences, development programs, resources and support for current and future school leaders.

The Program is tailored to the needs of middle leaders in regional, rural and remote public schools. In addition to this professional learning, it also delivers sessions for the school leaders, including Principals, who support them.

This semester the SLI team, led by Ms Jarvis, will deliver two- and three-day workshops at regional centres across the state. The course also includes online learning across a 12-month period.

Ms Jarvis feels privileged to engage with the participants.

“These leaders show a strong connection to their communities though their moral purpose in having a positive impact on the learning outcomes of students in their communities,” she said.

The SLI team delivered Phases 1 and 2 of the Program to more than 200 participants last year.