From The Director General

Welcome to the new school year.

2012 promises to be another big year for public education, and the Independent Public Schools initiative remains at the forefront of educational change in Western Australia. I wish you every success on your journey.

There are now 171 Independent Public Schools in the state operating with an expanded suite of flexibilities, authorities and responsibilities. This represents significant growth since the announcement of the first intake of 34 schools in late 2009. I am confident that the momentum for increased flexibility that has been created by these schools will steadily result in improvements for all public schools.

It is clear that quality leadership is a key component of the success of this Independent Public School initiative. Not only is it the role of our Principals to inspire students, staff and members of the community; they are also at the cutting edge of forging new directions for our system. Independent Public School principals experience a sense of empowerment that enables them to use their new found autonomy to deliver targeted innovation and support to their school community.

All Western Australian schools are exciting and stimulating places for students, staff and community members. Independent Public Schools are building new pathways to excellence and equity into the future.