Jenny Allum
In her twenty-ninth year at SCEGGS Ms Allum is well known as a leading educator of young women.
Respected for her insightful understanding of educational issues, pastoral care and the development of the individual she regularly contributes to educational debate within professional circles and the wider media exploring issues regarding policy, the national curriculum, testing and the need to develop resilience in young people.
While at SCEGGS she has developed and strengthened the curriculum, widened the opportunities for co-curricular involvement and worked to provide a teaching and learning environment which is dynamic and invigorating for both students and staff. She has also overseen the implementation of the school’s strategic plan 2020 Vision which has dramatically transformed the physical fabric of the school over the last 15 years.
In 2011 she was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of NSW for her “eminent service to the community” through her extensive work in, and passionate commitment to, education.
Ms Allum was Chair of the NSW/ACT Branch of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools from 2004 – 2005, and before that chaired the Academic Committee of that Association. She is a Fellow of the Australian College of Educators.
Prior to SCEGGS, Ms Allum was Manager of the Curriculum Branch of the NSW Board of Studies from 1991-1995 responsible for the development of all school curriculum in the State from Kindergarten to Year 12; Director of Studies at Central Coast Grammar School; and taught Mathematics at Abbotsleigh School.
Her leadership is marked by a commitment to excellence, accountability, transparency and good relationships with staff, parents and the wider SCEGGS community.
"I want our girls to be strong, independent, resilient young women. It is important that they know themselves; that they know how to celebrate their strengths and successes, that they have the determination to work to improve themselves, and live life with joy, optimism, strength and commitment."