Scott Downward has been working up to taking over as principal of Moama Anglican Grammar for several months, and he finally got his chance to really take hold of the role when school resumed last week.
Through it, he’ll aid in the education of a number of Deniliquin students who travel to attend the school.
Mr Downward is new to the area, but not the sector, having spent 25 years in various education roles.
“I started as a teacher; my background is in teaching physical education, health education, and outdoor and environmental studies,” Mr Downward said.
“I moved through a variety of leadership positions, positions of responsibility, culminating in my most recent role at Caulfield Grammar, leading to my principal role.
“I’ve taught for a majority of that time and being in the classroom is really critical, I believe, for all leaders.
“As I’ve moved into different levels of responsibility, the face-to-face time in the classroom reduces and it becomes more about working with the teachers to support student learning as a part of their professional development.”
Saying his five year term with the school is just the minimum, Mr Downward said he hopes to stay longer.
“My wife and our two children have bought a house in Moama, and we’re excited to be a part of the community.”
Mr Downward will be sending his own children to MAG this year, after “forensically researching” the schools in the area.
“We felt that MAG was a wonderful organisation and the best fit for our family, as much as it was for me coming in through my work role,” he said.
“That’s exciting for me as a dad to have my kids at the school and be a bigger part of their journeys.”
Mr Downward is looking forward to supporting his new community, with context a determining factor in making decisions.
“I think it’s incumbent on leaders to not come in and just have one person’s view because there’s so much more of a story to learn about. That allows us to build on what’s great and then focus on supporting people to continually improve.”
While Mr Downward started in the office officially on January 9, he has been involved in transition activities since being appointed to the position in June.
“It’s really exciting to be here, and I’m looking forward to supporting our community to grow.”