Primary School

Dear Global Jaya School Community Members,

I have had the pleasure of being a member of this wonderful school community for ten years. During this time, I have been lucky enough to witness hundreds of students join us, each growing and developing physically, emotionally, socially and academically over time. It has been a sincere privilege to watch the achievements, challenges, resilience and commitment of students across all areas of the school. Engaging with students in the playground, during learning tasks or through sports activities have been the highlights of my days at Global. These experiences will be among my fondest memories. However, perhaps Fridays were my favourite day of the week, not because it was the day before the weekend, but because it was our assembly day. This has always been a special day where parents joined students and teachers to celebrate the action students had taken, acknowledge our Global Award winners, share in the communication of learning and hear about the fantastic achievements of students and the many special events. On many occasions, tears of pride welled up in my eyes as I watched the animated performers, discovered the hidden talents of individual students, laughed at the humour or was astounded by the creativity. It never ceased to amaze me the confidence of our students as they took part in songs, dramas, public speaking, debates, and much, much, more. I wish all of the Global Jaya students the very best. I hope you will continue to be curious and work hard, and always have high expectations for yourselves.

Many of us talk about Global Jaya being a community, a place where we all work together for the benefit of our students. And in most schools, you would think this might include students, teachers and perhaps leadership, but at Global Jaya, it means so much more. Our parent community have consistently been outstanding supporters and advocates of school programmes. The last term has been a testament to this. As a principal, I have worked closely with many parents over the years and have always been impressed by the dedication of those willing to support school events, take on projects and assist in any way they can. It has been a pleasure to get to know our new parents each year and work with them as their children progress through the school. I thank you wholeheartedly Global Jaya parents for all that you have done, and I am sure will continue to do.

While I have talked about students, teachers, leadership and parents being part of our community, there is still another group that are vital contributors to the success of GJS. These are the wonderful administration and support staff who work diligently to make sure our campus looks beautiful, the operational requirements are taken care of, and we are safe and supported in all that we do. Our admin staff, security guards, support staff, cleaners and gardeners go above and beyond the requirements of their roles on a daily basis. They greet us all each morning, ensure resources and equipment are available for learning, maintain the school environment inside and out, and in Primary even act as guest speakers to support the learning process! I would like to thank all of these wonderful people for the small things they do, for their smiles, greetings, laughter and support. We could not do what we do without you.

Over the years, as a member of the Leadership Team, I have worked with exceptional leaders who have taught me a great deal. I have gained from their experience, collaborated on projects, policies and evaluations, and assisted in identifying the best paths forward for the school. Throughout this process, I have had the privilege of working alongside Ibu Dewi. I cannot begin to express my gratitude or put into words what this personal and professional relationship has meant to me. Ibu Dewi’s professionalism, dedication and resilience is something I stand in awe of, she is a role model, a lifelong learner and someone I will truly miss. Thank you Ibu Dewi for all that you do.

Finally, I would like to pay tribute to each and every one of the amazing teachers I have worked with in Primary. The tireless, determined, supportive, resilient and dedicated members of the Primary teaching team will always remain dear to my heart. This exceptional group of people consistently look for strategies to grow both personally and professionally; they personify the concept of lifelong learning. While this certainly does benefit them as individuals, this is not why GJS teachers engage in this learning; instead, it is for every single one of the students that come into their classroom. Global Jaya teachers do what they do for their students. Whether online or face-to-face, the GJS Primary teachers believe in their students, they support their development and rejoice in their success. Primary teachers, I will never forget the time we have shared, I have learnt so much and grown so much personally and professionally because of all of you. You will always be in my heart.

It is with great sadness that I am leaving Global Jaya, but this is not goodbye, but rather 'see you soon'.

Kind regards,

Sarah Verdaguer

Primary School Principal