Principal ready for challenges

East Narrogin Primary School’s new principal is enjoying her new community of Narrogin after 18 months in the tiny town of Koorda.

Louise Armstrong has worked in a variety of roles during her 32 years with the Department of Education.

Many of her years have been spent in the classroom as a teacher to kindergarten and primary school students.

She has since taught students all over WA including on Rottnest Island.

“I’ve taught students who have come from overseas with no English, I spent eight months at Katanning Senior High School which was a huge learning curve for me,” she said.

Mrs Armstrong spent the past 18 months in Koorda before she got the opportunity to transfer to East Narrogin Primary School.

“Koorda had a tiny community but the school was very welcoming and lovely. I’m now looking forward to the challenges and opportunities here,” she said.

“My main focus is to build on the work from previous principals to maintain the quality of education at ENPS.”

When asked about some of the differences between country and city schools, Mrs Armstrong said there was not a simple answer.

“However, in a country town, I would say you are more a part of the community whereas being in Perth you might not have that same feel,” she said.

“Country schools are very central to community life and are very involved and supportive of staff, parents and the wider community.”

Mrs Armstrong said she had not arrived at ENPS with a specific plan.

“My job at the moment is to come in and observe, get to know people, talk to them and spend time in the classrooms,” she said.

“Then over time, I will work collectively with the staff to see what we are doing well and what we can improve on.”

For most of her career, she had not been interested in becoming a principal. But since making the leap, she has never looked back.

“As a principal you can hopefully lead and influence a larger group of people into making a positive difference (in the world),” she said.

ENPS’ previous principal Helen Fiebig left her position at the end of Term 3 last year.