The secrets behind being a primary school principal

Steven Jones of St Patrick’s Primary Guildford.

Principal profile with St Patrick's Primary Guildford Principal Steven Jones.

What is a typical work day like for you?

Every day and week is unique, but it always revolves around the students and staff. A constant is every morning during drop off I am out the front of the school welcoming students and families. Many students (and parents) jump out of the car excited, but some are more hesitant, anxious or unsure. For these students, a smile, reassuring words or gentle encouragement can make a tremendous difference. The rest of the day involves working with a wonderful team of staff, engaging with students around their learning, and meeting with various members of the school community.

How long have you been doing this job, and what first sparked your interest?

I have been a principal for 17 years across three very different schools. Throughout my life, I’ve been privileged to lead, as a student leader to the sporting field and then in schools. I’ve been fortunate to work with leaders who saw potential in me that developed my desire to do the same. As a teacher, I saw first-hand the importance of leaders creating a culture of learners.

What do you like most about the job?

The children! Every decision and discussion should always make a difference to them. Watching a student grow, suddenly solve a problem or do something they thought they couldn’t. Recently, a student presented a speech to the school community. They didn’t believe they could, but with encouragement and support, they did. The smile on their face when they finished was priceless.

What was the most unexpected thing you have had to do in your job?

I’ve learnt in this role to expect the unexpected. Be it solving blocked toilets, a family struggling, making lunch for a child who forgot theirs or assisting a child in a moment of stress or worry.

What is the worst thing you have had to do?

The most challenging time is during sickness and loss, whether it be a student, staff member or a family. It’s extremely challenging but an honour to listen and offer a supportive word.

What challenges have you faced during the pandemic?

During the pandemic, it was extremely important to ensure connections and relationships continued for students, staff and parents. A key message to our parent community was that they were doing a great job and were not expected to teach their children but provide a learning environment to enable them to learn.

How transferable are your skills?

There are so many transferable skills - communicating to a cross-section of the community; coaching colleagues, peers and students; setting and achieving goals and targets; daily problem-solving; meeting deadlines and expectations; and relational skills.

What advice do you have for people wanting to get into a career related to your skills and experience?

If you are passionate and interested in education, give it a go. It is a privilege to make a difference to the lives of young people.

What skills and personal skills do people need in teaching?

Patience, resilience, ability to cope with change and a desire to learn are key skills for a teacher. But the most important is a desire and willingness to make a difference to a child’s life.

Read the full article from the Sydney Morning Herald

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Sydney Morning Herald
Breaking news from Sydney, Australia and the world.

09 Jun 2026
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