University of Southern Queensland Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas has gone back to school to take on the challenge of being ‘Principal for a Day’.
Professor Thomas spent a full day mixing with the students and staff at Toowoomba State High School’s two campuses, first at Mt Lofty and then across town at Wilsonton.
She toured the school grounds, spoke to students at group assemblies, spent time in classrooms and even squeezed in a visit to the school’s agricultural centre at its Wilsonton Campus.
Happy to be back in the schoolyard, Professor Thomas said the program gave her a chance to gain an insight into the daily life at a Toowoomba state school while also strengthening the relationship between USQ and TSHS.
‘It was great to learn more about what is offered at high schools and how we, as a University, might be able to engage more effectively with schools,’ Professor Thomas said.
‘I was very interested in listening to the teachers and learning about the opportunities and challenges that are occurring within the high school education system.’
‘Teachers are such valuable mentors to their students and work incredibly long hours.’
‘Their influence and impact on our future leaders should never be taken for granted.’
TSHS principal Chris Zilm said Professor Thomas did a ‘great job’ of being ‘Principal for a Day’.
‘Having the Vice-Chancellor in the school as Principal for a Day was a great opportunity for our school community to introduce itself to the VC and create an even closer association between the school and the University of Southern Queensland,’ Mr Zilm said.
‘Raising aspirations and creating clear pathways for our young people is an investment in the future.’
‘I am pleased that together, Toowoomba State High and USQ can smooth the way for local kids through our strong links.’
Media contact:
Jim Campbell, USQ Media, +617 4631 2977, jim.campbell@usq.edu.au
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