mmg.com.au

Prep students were not the only new people at Heathcote’s Holy Rosary Primary School this week, with new principal Noel Dillon starting his role.

Mr Dillon has a wealth of experience of being head of schools, having spent the past 19 years as principal of two other schools.

His most recent was a 15-year stint at the helm of St Joseph’s Primary School in Quarry Hill.

Before that, he was principal of St Mary’s Primary School in Corowa for four years.

Mr Dillon said he was excited about his new role at Heathcote.

‘‘After 15 years at St Joseph’s, I was really ready for a new challenge and I’m excited by the opportunities at Holy Rosary Heathcote,” he said.

Mr Dillon said his first few days had been good.

‘‘The children are great and the staff are stunning,’’ he said.

‘‘There’s a tremendous energy around the school.

‘‘The parents have been very welcoming and the students extremely welcoming.

‘‘I’m really looking forward to being part of the Holy Rosary community.’’

Taking over the top job from former principal Kevin Messer, who has retired, Mr Dillon plans to implement some programs that have been effective at other schools he has worked at.

These include programs with a focus on literacy and numeracy, such as ‘Emu’ maths and reading recovery programs.

He also hopes to introduce the Bluearth health and well-being program, which helps students develop life-skills.

‘‘I know they really work for kids,’’ Mr Dillon said.

‘‘They all build positive culture.’’

Being a Catholic school, Mr Dillon said the school would also continue to focus on spirituality and prayer, as well as developing positive links between the school and the parish.