IT'S rare Muswellbrook is graced with the presence of the state Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister, and even rarer they visit without a media frenzy or major policy to announce, however that was just the case on Wednesday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Sarah Mitchell dropped by Muswellbrook South Public School (MSPS) on her way home to Gunnedah, and principal Glen Kite was more than happy to accommodate her and arrange a tour of some of the institution's facilities.
The former minister for Early Childhood Education, who had her portfolio extended after March's NSW Election, was treated to a viewing of a Year six mathematics class, which she heaped praise on, the Warrae Wanni kindergarten preparation program and the new playground that was largely paid for by the Parents and Citizens Association.
Despite not having a policy to reveal or a pledge to unveil, Ms Mitchell said she felt it was crucial to reach out to the schools at an intimate level and see how they're coping in real terms.
"It's really important to me in this role to get out and about and meet with students and teachers and principals like we're doing here today in Muswellbrook, just to get feedback about how things are going," she explained.
"I think it's really important [to be seen] and it's something for me as a minister that I've always made a priority.
"As early childhood minister I visited a lot of pre-schools and day care centres and I intend to do that as education minister as well."
After patrolling MSPS, Ms Mitchell was pleased to say she was very satisfied and thought a lot of things were being done extremely well.
"I was impressed by the school, there's a fantastic leadership team with the principal and deputy principal," she said.
"I was very inspired by the Year six maths class.
"I think there were some very brainy children in that room doing some innovative things in terms of maths, which was great to see.
"And, also their program for children in the years before school, particularly helping children from more disadvantaged backgrounds, it was great to be able to meet them as well."
It was a pleasant and relaxed visit from Ms Mitchell and educational institutions in the area will be hoping she continues to invest time into adding a personal touch to the portfolio.
