INTRODUCING CATHERINE SAMUEL

Catherine Samuel is passionate about education, believing educators are in the privileged position to have a positive and lasting impact on the students in their care and help prepare them for future success. Dedicated ‘to ensuring every student has the right support to reach their full potential in a supportive, caring environment where individuals feel valued and that they belong’, Catherine is a warm and engaging leader with extensive leadership experience at schools including Grimwade House, St Catherine’s School and The Knox School. Describing working in education as a service, she finds it ‘immensely satisfying to watch a child grow and thrive’.

Joining the Ruyton community as Head of Junior School at the start of Term 1 this year, she was drawn to our school for its distinguished history and reputation for providing exceptional learning opportunities for girls. Catherine believes that great education creates great opportunities. ‘Ruyton is in a very strong position – we have the opportunity to continue to value and leverage its rich history and traditions, celebrate its current position as a leader in girls’ education and consider what might be next through active involvement in the latest educational research’.

Catherine has expertise in leading strategy and day-to-day operations, including the learning, wellbeing and co-curricular programs in a Junior School. Continually reflecting on ‘where we have come from, where we are at and where we are headed’, Catherine has a demonstrated ability to problem solve in complex situations and articulates clear vision and direction with a strong commitment to continuous improvement. Acknowledging that ‘we need to have the best teachers and continue to build on the skills and capabilities of our staff’ to ensure outstanding student outcomes, Catherine has a reputation for maintaining strong relationships within the school community and is experienced in coaching and mentoring. She leads with value on respect, collaboration, and inclusion to bring out the best in those around her.

Bringing highly regarded experience and skills to forward thinking girls’ education to our Junior School, Catherine is dedicated to ‘support the whole School direction under the new Strategic Plan and in doing so continue to build on the work of those who have come before me and continue to provide a Junior School where every child is known, valued and is supported to achieve their personal best’.

Catherine is an exceptional appointment for Ruyton and has already made a significant impact on our School community since her arrival. We welcome Catherine to Ruyton and look forward to seeing her succeed in her role.