This time of year is busy with Strategically Planning for forthcoming 2020 year ahead. As part of this process we also learn about staff wishing to take leave or move on. We are able to share that both Mrs Kelly Edwards and Mr Andrew Birchler have been granted leave from their permanent positions for the 2020 year ahead. Kelly is taking time to refresh and enjoy her young family and Andrew has won a study award to gain qualifications to become a tutor to Reading Recovery Teachers. We wish them both well.
We have also learned that Mr Clint Frost is leaving us after beginning his craft as a teacher four years ago. Clint has brought a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to IPS, especially in the area of hockey and cricket. Clint has been coached into a leadership role within our Cultural Proactiveness Team, gaining many opportunities to attend various conferences and hui to extend his knowledge and thinking within this area. Clint will be joining the teaching team at Highlands for 2020, we wish both Maia and Clint all the very best.
It is with a heavy heart, I also inform you that Mrs Vicki Ritchie is leaving us after twenty years of teaching and leading at IPS. Vicki has not made this decision lightly, however has made the decision as the stress and demand of her role of Associate Principal and at times, Acting Principal, has taken its toll on her health and wellbeing.
Vicki is a highly skilled practitioner in all areas of the curriculum. Vicki has provided learning opportunities which compliment and extend the thinking of both students and adults. Vicki's quiet humble approach to all she does, means often people do not notice all she does each and every day.
We hope to get the Bike Track Stage 1 completed before Vicki leaves us as it was her initiative which started this project. Vicki's students have always thought highly of her, especially the quirks and enthusiasm she brings to every lesson. Her Japanese Language Camps, hikes up the Mountain, Fit Club, EOTC initiatives, Ground Crew and Envio Team to name a few will be missed. Vicki's attention to detail and dancing prowess is going to be missed at the Dinner Dance, we aim to make this one a very special one for her last dance
Vicki is a collaborative Leader who provides insight and wisdom within the Leadership discussions. Vicki has enjoyed coaching and mentoring many, many staff members over the years. There is so much more to say about the tireless contribution that Vicki has given to IPS over the years, which will be shared publicly at the End of Year Assemblies.
Both of Vicki and Doug's children attended IPS and have also been strong advocates and support to their Mum and IPS over the years. Vicki's husband Doug has been on our Board of Trustees and is a behind the scenes supporter of all Vicki does.
Thank you Vicki, you will be sorely missed. We wish you, Doug, Amelia and Josh all the very best. Vicki is moving to Lepperton School where she will enjoy 'simply teaching in the year 4-6 hub there.
