Emanuel principal to retire
After 41 years in education, the last eight as Principal of Emanuel School, Anne Hastings has announced her decision to retire at the end of this year.
She was appointed as principal of Emanuel College in 2010.
Anne Hastings Photo: Ofer Levy
Emanuel Board President Grant McCorquodale said. “Mrs Hastings has been an outstanding leader and her energy, vision and commitment to Emanuel School have made a positive impact on the students, the School and wider community. As a highly regarded and talented educator, Anne has built up and led the capable Emanuel staff who share her passion and commitment to each of our students for their personal, social, communal, academic and spiritual development. Anne encourages our students to have a deep awareness of how they can make a positive difference to the lives of others, as well as develop a healthy preparedness and regard for society as Jewish, Australian and global citizens.”
Under Mrs Hastings’ leadership, Emanuel School has gone from strength to strength, with student numbers now approaching full capacity – the first time in the School’s 35-year history.
“The last eight years have been the most fulfilling of my career,” Mrs Hastings said. “Leading a school, which has such a positive culture of support and focus on learning, has been a great highlight. Emanuel is a haven where students grow, contribute, learn and flourish. It’s a dynamic place where each day is never the same, where there’s always a lot going on, where change and challenge are part of the fabric. A new student can walk in the gates and in a short time feel comfortable and accepted, laying the foundation for effective learning and relationship building. It is my wish that our students, staff and parents never lose sight of the important things that make up our School, its values and culture.”
An annual highlight for Mrs Hastings is to see the quality of the School’s Year 12 graduates, who leave as “competent, confident and connected, with a strong sense of social justice. Another has been the success of our Jilkminggan (Northern Territory) and East Timor programs. I love to see our students wrestle with learning difficult concepts or effecting a change in their way of thinking. I’m privileged to have witnessed the personal growth of so many.”
Natanya Milner, Head of Primary, said: “It has been such a pleasure to work with Anne. I have been privileged to see her impact on the School and how this has translated into wonderful outcomes for the children, staff and community. Anne’s deep understanding of the learning journey has seen continual growth in opportunities for the children, as well as a focus on professional learning for staff. I feel blessed to have been mentored by someone with such care and passion as well as an unwavering commitment to the School. She is truly an outstanding role model to us all.”
Mr McCorquodale confirmed that the Board has already commenced the search for a new Principal. Mrs Hastings, who will be involved in the transition to her successor, is certain that the School will be in safe hands. “Emanuel is financially strong, attractive as a place of learning, with improving facilities and close to full enrolments. This is due to the effective management of the Board and the commitment of the staff to making the School a success.”
Mrs Hastings is passionate about learning. “Life is a journey in which we are constantly learning – individually, collaboratively and as an important part of our global community. I am committed to working towards really effective learning across the domains of Mind, Spirit, Being for each student. Emanuel aims to open the mind, awaken the spirit and engage the whole being.”
