
I am very pleased to advise that the next Principal of our School will be Ms Merryn Clarksmith, who is currently Deputy Principal of St Luke’s Grammar School in Dee Why, Sydney.
Merryn has over 15 years’ experience in leadership positions in Christian schools. Before joining St Luke’s in 2016 she was, from 2008, Head of Senior School at Rouse Hill Anglican College. Formerly, she was at Northolm Grammar School in the Sydney suburb or Arcadia, where, over a ten-year period, she held the positions of Dean of Senior Students and Assistant to the Deputy Principal, among others.
Merryn is a graduate of Macquarie University from which she has a Bachelor of Arts and a Diploma in Education (English/Drama). She also has a Master of Educational Leadership from the University of New South Wales.
We are delighted that Merryn will join us from 1 January next year, allowing a seamless transition with Ian’s move to Trinity Christian School. Before then I will plan a families’ evening so that you get the chance to meet Merryn as soon as possible.
The educational philosophy at St Luke’s is very similar to our own, and places children at the centre of their learning experience. Merryn is very committed to the approach and has indicated her enthusiasm for the programs we have in place at Googong.
We are very fortunate to have someone of Merryn’s educational and leadership experience, and Christian commitment, led to us. Her approach is nicely summed up in the following extract from her application:
In leading a school … I strive to reflect Paul’s words to the Colossians, imploring us to “clothe ourselves in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” as we interact with each other.
John Richards
Chair, Board
The Anglican School Googong