2007 has been a year of change for Carterton School. The long-serving principal, Pat Gallagher, retired at the end of term 2 after 16 highly successful years at the helm. It was a sad day when Pat left and the school community warmly thank him for his amazing commitment to the education of the children of Carterton.

It has been my pleasure to be part of the school since the beginning of term 3. In the few short weeks I have been here I have been impressed by the care every member of the school community puts into their work. The children are enthusiastic and ready to take up any opportunity given to them. The staff work together to constantly upskill themselves and provide the best of educational opportunities. The parents are open and want to be part of their children’s time at school. With a diverse population, both students and staff, the school is a welcoming and accepting environment for everyone.

Our focus is on helping our students to become literate and numerate and to be able to take their place successfully in this ever changing society. One of the main features of the school are the huge number of ‘extras’ available to the children. During the school day, after school and at weekends staff can be found supporting children in a wide range of academic, sporting and social activities.  In these days of increased paperwork and accountability it is refreshing to find staff taking on extra responsibility and taking time to have fun and relax with the children.

It is a privilege to be principal of Carterton School. I look forward to the future, with our school continuing to develop and respond to the needs of our Carterton community.

Come and visit us anytime. You are very welcome.

Alison Woollard
Principal