The local primary school teacher’s unwavering devotion to small schools, particularly her own, is what makes her very well suited to her new role as principal of Murrurundi Public School. 

Mrs Druitt (pictured) has started the new school term in her role as leader of the school following two terms of relieving in the role. 

The school’s previous principal Jayne Schmarr left for Greta Public School at the end of last year and Mrs Druitt has been relieving principal until she was officially appointed by the Department of Education. 

Mrs Druitt is extremely excited about her role leading the school of 51 students, three permanent teachers and various staff members. 

Having taught as a classroom teacher at Murrurundi Public since 2008, Mrs Druitt is a familiar face for the entire school community, which coupled with her prior experience of relieving principal, put her in good stead for the position. 

Since starting her teaching career 10 years ago, Mrs Druitt has taught students from kindergarten age to year 6 right across the Upper Hunter area, however she said she is a big fan of small schools and what they can offer students. 

“Once I came to a small school (Murrurundi), I knew I had found my place. 

“I love the school and I love the fact, that as a teaching principal, I get the best of both worlds,” she said. 

Mrs Druitt continues to teach year 1 and 2 three days a week while also fulfilling her leadership duties and ensuring each and every student receives the attention they deserve. 

“The opportunities students have, which have been implemented by previous principals, have established our school as one that caters for each student at every level, including social, emotional and educational.

“We’re a Kids Matters school, which is a program we have been a part of for some time now and enables us to support our students, staff and families in the community,” she said. 

Her own love for learning is an attribute that motivates Mrs Druitt  to achieve the best for the students and she is currently completing a Masters in Special Education at the University of Newcastle, which will help her do so. 

“I believe to be a life long learner is one of the greatest gifts, and as the department is currently undergoing a huge shift with a lot of new reforms to benefit both students and staff it is a really exciting time to take on a leadership role,” she said. 

Right at the top of Mrs Druitt’s to do list is to build a strong communication connection between the local pre-school and primary school, and she said she is very thankful to the support from the pre-school coordinator Jodie Patmore as working together they can achieve a lot for families in the community.

Mrs Druitt said she is fortunate to have lots of good support.

She said she really wants people to know that Murrurundi Public is the community’s school and she feels very privileged to be the leader. 

“I’m very mindful of the history of the school and its importance in the community,” Mrs Druitt said. 

“The school is always open to all the community at any time.

“It’s a lovely place to be and I’m very proud to be principal.”