EXCELLENCE AWARDEE: School Principal of the Year - Government

Rachel Byrne

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Born in Sydney, I have a rich background in physical education and sports management. After completing a Bachelor of Education at the University of Canberra, I began my career in the Catholic education system before embarking on an enriching journey in London as a supply teacher and a cricket player for Middlesex County. Upon my return to Sydney, I transitioned from a PDHPE teacher to a Head

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Principal

Teacher Wellbeing while pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Sports Management at the University of Technology Sydney. In 2010, I made the move to Newcastle, taking on regional Student Wellbeing consultancy roles and eventually serving as Deputy Principal at Hunter Sports High School in 2011. By 2012, I assumed the role of Relieving Principal, later becoming the substantive Principal in 2016. My tenure at Hunter Sports High School has been marked by innovation and transformation. I led the school through a significant rebuild while maintaining operations, a remarkable achievement recognised with the NSW Department of Education Secretary’s Award for Service in 2020. A trailblazer in education, I played a pivotal role in establishing the Big Picture Academy at the school and contributed to the development of the International Big Picture Learning Credential. My commitment to innovative educational approaches has yielded tangible improvements in student outcomes and wellbeing, earning distinctions such as recognition for transformational leadership on the 2023 Edleaders Impact List. At Hunter Sports High School, I have championed an Academy structure that places students at the forefront of their own learning experiences, fostering agency and community connections. This model aligns with our school motto of Personalising Pathways for all students, aiming to equip learners with the skills, knowledge and character traits necessary to thrive in a dynamic world. Continuously dedicated to identifying strengths and guiding students towards purposeful pathways, I am driven by a passion for finding the best educational opportunities for all learners.