I come to Clarkson with experience as an Associate Principal in a number of schools, having had leadership responsibilities across Years 7-12, and having focused on fostering strong cultures of teaching and learning. My focus as a school leader is on ensuring that the needs of each and every student are met and that, as a school community, we both recognise that success will mean different things for different students, and that we celebrate that success when we see it.

As you are likely aware, this year Clarkson CHS is introducing an innovative whole-school curriculum with a focus on Social and Emotional Learning. This program acknowledges the importance of supporting young people to grow their social and emotional skills as a key part of enabling them to flourish. This program will reinforce the school’s core values of care, optimism, respect and trust as well as supporting their personal growth.

I am aware that aspects of 2020 were challenging for those connected to Clarkson CHS. I know that staff appreciate the support that was shown by the broader community during the consultation period around the school’s future. The Clarkson CHS team remain committed to providing the best possible educational opportunities for all students and to ensuring that our students have the opportunity to thrive. Please find attached a separate letter providing information regarding the outcome of the consultation process.

I am very much looking forward to getting to know all of the Clarkson students and to meeting with many of you over the coming semester.

Warm regards

Kristy Watson

Principal, Clarkson Community High School