This month we caught up with Sarah Hamilton, proud principal of Holy Cross School, Trinity Park. Sarah’s passion is evident when she speaks about her school, the students and families and her role as the leader of the Holy Cross school community. We spent five minutes chatting about what she hopes to achieve at Holy Cross, the impact of introducing Walker Learning to the school and how her education shaped her to be the person she is today.  

What do you hope to achieve in your role as principal? 

To help our students to be the best version of themselves. There is nothing that makes me happier than seeing our students find their ‘spark’ and consequently shine. And if our students sparkle and shine, then our teachers and their family sparkle and shine also. I see my role as Principal at Holy Cross School both as an incredible privilege and a complete honour. 

What makes you most proud to be the leader of your school community? 

To be able to declare that Holy Cross School is my workplace. It truly is the most outstanding place to work. I am immensely proud to be associated with the Northern Beaches. I pinch myself every day! 

What makes a great teacher? 

Innovation, creativity, a sense of humour, openness, and a genuine desire to walk beside every student and their family no matter how great their needs. Oh, and the ability to burn the candle at both ends! 

How did your education shape you to be the person you are today? 

My education instilled a strong work ethic, a desire to always push the bar just that little bit higher, the importance of teamwork, and the ability to see the face of Jesus in everyone. I was very fortunate, I had amazing educational role models from my humble beginnings at Hambledon Nursery School (Kindy) through to my graduation from Exeter University. However, in the words of George Weah, “Education is a continual process, it’s like a bicycle… If you don’t pedal you don’t go forward,” and what better place to pedal than Holy Cross School which is filled with the very finest of staff and students who teach and inspire me every day. 

What motto, affirmation or prayer do you live by? 

This year our theme at Holy Cross is ‘Bounce Forwards’, so my current motto is exactly that – the importance of using every mishap as a springboard for learning, throwing you onwards and upwards realigning you with your hopes and dreams for the future. It’s a very powerful mindset, I thoroughly recommend it! 

What is the highlight of your career so far as principal? 

Taking an informed risk and changing the way we teach, and our students learn, in our early years (Prep to Year 2) at Holy Cross. The impact of the introduction of Walker Learning at our school has been astronomical. The engagement of our students during investigations is second to none and academic results forever improving. I’m very much looking forward to watching the next phase, Engagement Matters, roll out next year in Year 3. Watch this space… 

What do you think are the most important values a principal should uphold? 

Honesty, integrity, passion, empathy, and the ability to instil a sense of trust and inclusion for everyone. But most importantly, unconditional love of children. Teaching truly is the best job in the world. I can’t ever imagine doing anything else. 

Find out more about Holy Cross School, Trinity Park.