Principal | St Clare’s Catholic School
Being appointed the Foundation Principal of St Clare’s Catholic School in 2010 tops the career highlights list for Kath Tarttelin — an educator who has enjoyed many milestones in her 25 years of teaching for Townsville Catholic Education.
“Seeing the children on their first day of school at our new school was very special,” Kath says.
“We opened our doors to 177 children and have grown quite quickly, with 680 children at the school now. Our first Prep children graduate at the end of the year and these children, along with me, have been witness to the development of our school from a vacant block of land to a four-stream primary school.”
Born and bred in Mount Isa, Kath began her career as a Grade 1 teacher at St Joseph’s Catholic School, where she spent five years before transferring to Holy Spirit School, Cranbrook, in 1997. In 2004, Kath took on the role of Principal at St Francis’s School in Hughenden, followed by Principal of St Kieran’s Catholic School in Mount Isa in 2005 and now of St Clare’s.
“Ultimately being a leader relies on genuine connections – with children, their families, with staff and with the community.”
KATH TARTELLIN
“As Principal, it’s important to look at the big picture and ensure you’re strategic when making decisions that will impact the school community,” Kath says.
“I thoroughly enjoy working with teachers to build their capability and believe all people in leadership need to be effective at developing and maintaining relationships.
“Ultimately, being a leader relies on genuine connections with children, their families, staff and the community.
“It’s a people-based field that allows you to observe and develop strengths in others. I’m passionate about mentoring future leaders and feel rewarded as I see teachers achieve their goals and move into leadership roles.”
Kath enjoys the fact no two work days are the same, as being a leader in education is an ever-evolving endeavour.
“The biggest change recently has been the evolution of technology, which allows us to continue to find new ways to engage students in the classroom.”
St Clare’s Catholic School
Burdell Drive, Burdell
4760 6900
www.stclarestsv.catholic.edu.au