Sunshine Coast Grammar School formally welcomed its new Principal at a Commissioning Service on Friday, 17 June. Mrs Owen is the fourth Principal to lead the school since its inception in 1997.
Mrs Owen reflected on the year so far and offered words of wisdom, gratitude and direction and shared her discoveries of the school, including the pride of the school’s community, its green heart and its great potential.
“I am extremely privileged and understand the importance of taking over the mantle of Principal and Sunshine Coast Grammar School. A school that is only 25 years old and has played such a significant role in founding and shaping independent education in the Sunshine Coast region,” said Mrs Owen.
The Commissioning Service was conducted in front of the school’s staff, parents and students as well as other community dignitaries, including Principals from local and Brisbane schools, Members of Parliament and the Sunshine Coast Regional Council, and colleagues from the University of the Sunshine Coast.
The school’s renowned Symphonic Band and Choirs performed during the processional and was conducted by Dr Mitchell.
Sunshine Coast Grammar School prides itself on its connections with its community and the supportive and caring relationships students establish and maintain with their peers and teachers throughout their time at school.
“The pride of those who built our school is enormous. We reflect with pride, but equally with hope and confidence in the future. There is a sense of positive anticipation in our community and it is my great privilege to share this future with our community,” said Mrs Owen.
Sunshine Coast Grammar School is a unique learning environment set on a beautiful 100-acre site with its own lakes and rainforest. It offers free wilderness immersion therapy or nature therapy for every person who wanders around the campus.
“It is very clear that our green heart will always be fiercely guarded. Our rainforest walk remains the beating heart of our school community”, said Mrs Owen.
Mrs Owen has extensive experience in leading teaching and learning as well as implementing pastoral care and wellbeing programs. She has become known for the vision and energy she brings to her role.
“I strongly believe in equipping students with the confidence, skills and education they need to shape their futures, whether they want to be a political leader, run their own business or chase their dreams with passion and purpose,” said Mrs Owen.
A member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Mrs Owen is currently completing her Masters of Business Administration through the University of Queensland. Additionally, she is a member of the Australian Council of Educational Leaders (ACEL) and has been at the forefront of leadership, innovation and change management. Additionally, she achieved her Masters in Science with a high distinction and has since completed the Stanford University Managing Teams for Innovation and Success program.
“I am passionate about the advancement of young people and equity for all. Through my leadership and experience I hope to continue to build a culture of excellence and guide Sunshine Coast Grammar School through its current growth and development,” said Mrs Owen
Mrs Owen is a person with inspirational leadership and strong values grounded in the Christian faith and along with her proven experience, she will continue to contribute significantly to the development of the School’s vision, where passion meets purpose.
“My hope as Principal is that looking back on their school days our students will remember compassion, kindness, encouragement, empathy, challenge and humour in equal measures. That they will be a performer as much as an audience member, and rarely an online onlooker. That they will find enjoyment in the struggles and they will have learned to give their personal best,” said Mrs Owen.