Mr Ward joined principals from Albury, Coleambally, Deniliquin, Griffith, Hay, Hillston and Junee to listen to an address from Department of Education secretary Mark Scott.
Mr Ward said he can implement the ‘‘impact of data, the impact of professional learning and the impact of quality teaching’’ that was discussed at the forum.
‘‘The forum was very much around ‘every student is known, valued and cared for’ and the support the department of education is providing to ensure teachers and principals can do this effectively.
‘‘I think I can take away discussions around principal wellbeing, taking care of myself will only benefit the students, staff and school.
‘‘Also what is the impact of my leadership, how can I get the most out of my leadership to benefit everyone.
‘‘The day was all about networking and I was able to meet a number of principals and directors I had not met previously and reacquaint with others.
‘‘I was able to meet with Mr Scott again one-on-one and he remembered me from previous meetings.
‘‘Also, I was able to chat with our new executive director Dean White who I had met a number of times when I was teaching in North Sydney.
‘‘There is no doubting Mr Scott is very passionate about teaching and the difference we all can make to a child’s education.’’
Mr Ward said there are things the NSW Government still needs to address.
‘‘I’m always concerned about staffing and attracting quality teachers and leaders to rural and remote regions of New South Wales.
‘‘This was a question put to Mr Scott and he and his team are working to address this.’’
