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It’s no wonder Windang Public School’s Loreta Kocovska has been recognised as the nation’s top public primary school principal.

Loreta has been instrumental in transforming her school into a place of excellence in learning and development – so much so that the school itself won a prize this year.

On August 5, Windang PS was honoured for its knowledge-rich curriculum with the Secretary’s Award for School Achievement at the 2024 Public Education Awards.

A few days later, at an August 9 gala event attended by 800 people at Star City Casino, Loreta was named ‘2024 Primary School Principal of the Year – Government’ at the Australian Education Awards, run by The Educator.

Loreta had been nominated then shortlisted in a group of 17 finalists, but only found out that she had won on the night, with all her team present.

Loreta said she became a teacher because she was “passionate about shaping young minds and fostering a love of learning”.

“I strongly believe in the power of education to transform lives and wanted to play a pivotal role in helping children and young adults develop their knowledge, skills and confidence they need to succeed.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the growth and achievements of young learners and know that I’ve contributed to their journey.”

Magic of ‘lightbulb moments’

Loreta said she loved teaching because she enjoys “being part of students’ educational journeys as they learn, grow and succeed”.

“Witnessing those magical lightbulb moments when understanding dawns and confidence blossoms, makes each day deeply rewarding.

“Some of my proudest moments as a teacher include witnessing students grow, thrive, and achieve their goals. A particularly significant achievement has been my appointment as the principal of Windang PS, where I’ve had the privilege of leading a transformative journey over the past five years.

“Together with my staff, we have revitalised the entire school, from replacing roofs and refurbishing every classroom to strategically designing outdoor play areas.

“These improvements were driven by our commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education.

Loreta emphasised that it’s important to balance high-quality teaching and learning in the classroom with opportunities for creative play.

Transformation of a school

Thanks to her leadership, the school has become a place where the kids enjoy learning, and the teachers enjoy teaching.

During Loreta’s tenure, the school has received a complete overhaul: toilets installed in 1942 have been replaced, the basketball court has been resurfaced, the football field has been transformed into a usable play space, and the playground, which had been sealed off, is now open for the kids to use. The roof has been replaced, classrooms refurbished and gardens landscaped.

Teaching has also changed.

Loreta said the teachers “now teach the Windang Public School way”.

“This involves a 30-minute morning routine with all of the children in every year group being readied for the rest of their learning day.” 

It seems to be paying off  – in 2024, all of the children in Year 3 achieved above the national average in Naplan and, for the first time in a decade, Year 5 achieved above the national average in mathematics.

Introducing joy of music

Loreta believes a well-rounded education is vital, so students now have lots of co-curricular opportunities.

All students are taught music each week and a school band has begun with Louise Luke, an experienced music teacher who secured the position through the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music.

Art is taught every week by an artist-in-residence and Angelina Maranesi – the author of the school’s new book, The Island and the Bridge – teaches Italian.

Sport is popular, with experts visiting each week to help coach basketball, football, netball, soccer and swimming. Loreta said three boys were recently selected to represent Australia in touch football at a tournament in New Zealand.

For anyone dreaming of becoming a teacher, Loreta said the job is all about connecting with young people.

“My advice for the next generation of teachers is simple: relationships, relationships, relationships.

“Just like in real estate, where location is key, in education, building strong connections with your students is everything.

“Every day is unique, and with each new day comes the responsibility of caring for someone else’s most precious gift, their child.

“Show up each day with dedication, knowing that by teaching a child to read, write, and understand numbers, you are giving them the tools for a successful future filled with limitless possibilities.”