New principals welcomed at Newcastle East, Newcastle East Senior and Plattsburg public schools

newy.com.au – Three Newcastle schools have welcomed new principals this week ahead of students returning for Term 1 on Monday 2 February.

Newcastle East Public School, Newcastle East Senior School and Plattsburg Public School are among 80 NSW public schools starting 2026 with new leadership, as principals meet staff during school development days.

Newcastle East Public School’s new principal is Todd Daniels, while Anna Owen has taken up the principal role at Newcastle East Senior School and Shahn Radcliffe has started at Plattsburg Public School, according to the NSW Department of Education.

The department said 51 of the 80 appointments were first-time principals, with the remaining 29 principals moving to a new school, and almost two-thirds of the cohort taking up roles in regional, rural and remote areas.

NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said the new principals were “stepping into roles where their leadership will shape not only learning outcomes, but the confidence, wellbeing and life chances of thousands of young people and their communities”.

“Becoming a principal in public education is both a privilege and a profound responsibility,” Dizdar said, describing principals as “lifelong learners” who keep a continual focus on teaching and learning.

He said placing the right people into leadership roles was critical for having the greatest impact in classrooms. “When the strongest educators lead our schools, the impact on classrooms is profound, and I know this new cohort will be exemplary leaders,” he said.

Deputy Secretary, Public Schools, Deb Summerhayes also welcomed staff back for the start of the year, saying educators played a vital role in nurturing student potential.

“I am confident that under the guidance of committed, experienced and passionate school leaders and teachers, this will be a year where potential and talent are recognised, curiosity is encouraged and every learner can thrive,” Summerhayes said.

Students in the Eastern Division, including Newcastle, are due back at school on 2 February, with Western Division students returning on 9 February.