New principal passionate about boarding

Following the resignation of Mrs Vicki Walters, Pymble Ladies College found just that when it appointed Dr Kate Hadwen as its ninth principal.

Dr Hadwen grew up on a farm at Westmar, QLD, and went to boarding school when she was 10 at Toowoomba Prep before later going to Fairholme College.

She was at Mudgee Field Days as part of a regional tour where she also attended a function for 60 guests at a farm near Narromine.

"I have lots of connections with the country," Dr Hadwen said.

"It was great to meet parents in the flesh and show them that we understand what a big decision it is to send their children to boarding school and to let them know that we take pride in the care and education we provide them.

"I passionately believe in access to quality educational opportunities for all young people.

"Young people who come from the country should have equal advantage to access whichever school they choose.

"If they choose the school down the road from them then that's great.

"But if it's Pymble or another school which is better for them because of the specialised programs, the classes or the staff there, they should be able to access that.

"Pymble has some amazing programs offering more than 40 subjects at a HSC level.

"It means students can study any subjects they want to."

Dr Hadwen was selected by the College Council following an extensive search.

She joins Pymble after nearly four years as principal at Presbyterian Ladies' College in Perth, WA, where she established a world-leading health and wellbeing curriculum and dedicated wellbeing centre, personalised learning programs and a range of initiatives.

"I'm honoured to step into this role and to join Pymble's team of exceptional and dedicated staff at a school that's a national leader in girls' education," Dr Hadwen said.