A PERMANENT HOME AT THE HELM – the Voice celebrates Miss Arnott’s appointment as Principal of Kangaroo Valley Public School.
A Community Leader
In a small rural community like Kangaroo Valley, the role of school principal extends far beyond administrative duties. The principal becomes a cornerstone of village life—a trusted mentor, community leader, and guiding presence for the valley’s youngest residents. For the past three years, Jennifer Arnott has embraced this multifaceted role with characteristic enthusiasm, rolling up her sleeves as an active participant in both school and community life.
Whether dressed as Professor McGonagall for Book Week’s Harry Potter theme, organizing end-of-year excursions, or running musical statues during playtime, Miss Arnott has demonstrated a hands-on approach that resonates deeply with students and parents alike. Now, the valley celebrates as she officially steps into the role permanently.
The Appointment
After three years as relieving principal, Jennifer Arnott has officially been appointed permanent Teaching Principal of Kangaroo Valley Public School, commencing her role on April 28th—exactly three years to the day since she first stepped into the position temporarily.
The position became available after long-serving principal Andrew Smee decided to pursue his passion for environmental education through the Illawarra Environmental Education Centre. Miss Arnott expressed gratitude to Mr. Smee for his many years of service both as a classroom teacher and teaching principal at KVPS.
Following a thorough selection process, Miss Arnott was chosen as the successful candidate. The panel was led by Mr. Bill Field, Director of the Shoalhaven Principals Network, with panel members Clayton Stevenson (Principal, Falls Creek), Jane Gripper (teacher representative), Tuneil Mackechnie (parent representative), and Brooke Stewart (Aboriginal Education Consultative Group representative).
A Journey Through Shoalhaven Education
Miss Arnott brings a wealth of diverse educational experience to her role at KVPS. Her career in education began at Bomaderry Public School—the very school she attended as a child—first as a Teacher’s Aide (now known as School Learning Support Officer) while studying at University of Wollongong’s Shoalhaven Campus. After graduating, she continued at Bomaderry as a Teacher and later as an Assistant Principal, maintaining strong connections to the community where she herself grew up.
During her time at Bomaderry, Miss Arnott had the opportunity to serve as a Home School Liaison Officer for the Department of Education, working across twenty different schools to support regular student attendance. This challenging role involved collaboration with police, various agencies, and often representing the Department of Education at the Local or Children’s Court.
Her career path then led to Tomerong Public School, where she discovered her passion for smaller educational environments. “It was here where I fell in love with small schools,” Miss Arnott explains, “and I knew that eventually I wanted to work in a small school long term.”
Before arriving in Kangaroo Valley, she gained valuable leadership experience at Illaroo Road Public School, where she served in relieving Deputy Principal and Principal roles. With approximately 600 students, Illaroo Road had more kindergarten students alone than KVPS’s entire enrollment—providing Miss Arnott with experience in one of Shoalhaven’s largest primary schools before she found her home in our valley.
In Her Own Words
“It is with immense pride, gratitude and joy that I accept the appointment of permanent teaching principal of Kangaroo Valley Public School,” Miss Arnott shared. “To say I feel honoured would be an understatement. This is not just a school – Kangaroo Valley Public is a vibrant village community, nestled in one of the most breathtaking settings in the country. But more than the scenery, it’s the people who make this school so special.
“From the moment I first stepped into the playground and heard from our enthusiastic learners, I knew this place was unlike any other. Our students bring curiosity, creativity and a joy for learning into the classroom each day. They are spirited, thoughtful, and always ready to have a go – they make it a pleasure to come to work.
“I want to thank our hardworking and dedicated staff. You are the heart of this school – your care, professionalism and relentless belief in our students is inspiring. You go above and beyond every single day, and I am genuinely excited to lead alongside you.
“As we look ahead, I’m committed to maintaining the rich traditions of Kangaroo Valley Public School, while continuing to grow opportunities for every child. Together, we’ll keep nurturing confident, kind and capable young people – students who love learning and who are proud of where they come from.”
Through Their Eyes: The Students’ Perspective
The children of Kangaroo Valley Public School responded to the news with characteristic enthusiasm, presenting their principal with a congratulatory card filled with heartfelt messages that capture the many ways Miss Arnott enriches their daily school experience:
“Thank you Miss Arnott for being our Principal. I am glad that you can teach us and that you can be here forever when we are sad or hurt.” – Laurie
“I think it’s really cool you became our principal because you are smart, funny and kind and you make everyone excited for the years to come.” – Ruby
“You are the best principal we could ever have and we are lucky you are so nice and cheer everyone up when they are feeling lonely.” – Iona
“Thank you for Ice block days when it is hot.” – Chaz
“I love when you dress up you always have a good costume and I love the disco party at the end of the term.” – Bobbie
“Thank you for running musical statues everyday during playtime at school.” – Csilla
“Thanks for the chickens.” – Matilda A.
“You are a very nice lady. Thank you for teaching us, for caring for us and protecting us. You keep us safe.” – Raven
“We relish all of our years having you as our principal! You plan the BEST end of year excursions.” – Jules
These heartfelt comments reveal the many dimensions of Miss Arnott’s, Jen’s, leadership—from thoughtful touches like providing ice blocks on hot days to creating meaningful connections with each child, ensuring no one feels lonely in the playground. Her creative spirit shines through in the children’s appreciation for her costumes, discos, and games, while practical considerations like the school chickens don’t go unnoticed by the observant students.
Community Celebration
The Kangaroo Valley community is invited to celebrate Miss Arnott’s permanent appointment at The Friendly Inn on February 2nd, starting from 4pm. All are welcome to attend.
