Medowie Christian School (MCS), a P-12, co-educational, Christian school located in the Port Stephens region of NSW, has announced Dan Weeks as its new principal, replacing Liz Hutton who retired after more than 40 years in Christian education.
Hutton’s tenure at the school, which began in November 2022, coincided with an exciting new growth phase, including the roll out of a new platform to address best practice in literacy and numeracy standards, the expansion of secondary school offerings, and a five-year plan to build on the school’s sport program.
Her retirement, announced in November, concludes a career in education spanning more than 25 years.
Hutton said Weeks’ commitment to Christian Education Ministry CEM values and deep understanding of its educational ethos made him “an exemplary choice” for the role.
“Mr. Weeks' journey to this position is a testament to his dedication and professional growth,” Hutton told The Educator.
“As a participant in the CEM Trainee Principal's Program, he has undergone extensive training and development, equipping him with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective school leadership.”
‘A profound privilege’
Hutton said leading and serving the MCS community has been a “profound privilege” for her.
“It is an excellent school community where staff and students engage in learning in a calm and eager environment. I am proud to have led such an outstanding organisation for the past two years,” she said.
“One of the unique aspects of the CEM leadership model is the opportunity it provides for outgoing leaders to mentor their successors, a process made possible through the TPP.”
Hutton said this experience allowed her to work closely with Weeks, “witnessing first-hand his strength, wisdom, and humility.”
“I am confident that under his leadership, MCS will continue to thrive and excel as a school where young people are well-known, well-loved and well-taught,” she said.
“Mr Weeks’ vision for our school aligns seamlessly with our ethos of nurturing young minds and fostering a supportive, Christian learning environment. I wholeheartedly endorse Mr. Weeks and look forward to seeing MCS flourish under his guidance.”
‘A deeply personal commitment’
Principal Weeks, previously the school’s Head of Secondary since 2019, is renowned for his dynamic approach to education, having been instrumental in driving greater student agency and fostering positive and constructive relationships between staff and the young people they teach.
Speaking to The Educator upon his appointment, Weeks said he is filled with “a profound sense of honour and responsibility” as he steps into his new role.
“This position is not just a professional milestone for me, but a deeply personal commitment to a community that has become an integral part of my life,” Weeks told The Educator.
“MCS is not merely an educational institution; it is a vibrant community where young minds are nurtured, values are instilled, and futures are shaped.”
Weeks said his journey from Deputy Principal to Principal has been “both smooth and supportive”.
“I have been surrounded by a great team of staff at MCS, by the enriching experiences of the CEM Trainee Principal's Program and connected to many of our students and their families throughout the past five years,” he said.
“Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities that lie before us. As we usher MCS into its new season, my vision is to build upon our strong foundations while introducing innovative approaches to education and community engagement with a focus on 'high impact teaching' and 'skillful learning'.”
Weeks said he is also looking forward to welcoming many new families to the school community in 2024.
“Each new student brings a unique set of experiences, perspectives, and dreams, each enriching our school community and it is a privilege to work alongside them,” he said.
“It is my goal to ensure that every family that joins us feels welcomed, valued, and becomes an integral part of our MCS family being well known, well loved and well taught.”
Weeks said his focus in the days to come will be on “fostering an environment where each child can thrive academically, spiritually, and socially.”
“I am committed to maintaining a culture where excellence is pursued, character is built, and faith is nurtured,” he said.
“The journey of education is a shared one, and I look forward to collaborating with the dedicated staff, partnering with supportive parents, and challenging our wonderful students in their educational journeys. Together, we will build MCS as we seek to design learning spaces, experiences and opportunities that empower our students to thrive.”