School Leadership

From the Principal

Welcome to the TAS website and to our school. Our aim with this website is to provide all the information you will need when you come to our school whether you are a parent considering a TAS education for your son or daughter, or you are already a member of our TAS community.

TAS has a long history as a quality regional boarding school that prides itself on the breadth of its offering and attention to the individual student. The only regional member of the Athletic Association of Great Public Schools (AAGPSNSW), our stunning rural location also enables the opportunity for a uniquely wide range of activities and educational experiences. Our aim is to develop young men and women with strength of character, decency, courage and a passion for life. We are a non-selective school, but one with a reputation for academic strength.

TAS is one of the oldest boarding schools in the state, and we believe residential life is at the heart of the school.

 

Our boarders enjoy an environment that combines all the best qualities of home, while being supported academically, socially, and recreationally. Relationships based upon mutual respect and responsibility reflect our Christian values, while a strong focus on wellbeing by our dedicated and experienced staff supports our students to thrive in their education journey and to build resilience against adversity.

TAS unashamedly believes that a quality co-curricular program is central to the development of every student. Whether it be music, drama, sport, service or adventure activities, it is the business of the school to help boys and girls explore and experience worthwhile and engaging opportunities, and support them to excel in whatever they choose to do. As a Round Square school, we are outward-looking, and seek to equip our students with the confidence to embrace challenges, as they find their way in the world. We are proud of our facilities but equally proud of our welcoming and resilient community, where friendships are made for life.

I hope you will find our website both informative and useful. I would also encourage you to come and visit us at TAS, our beautiful school in the heart of New England.

 

Dr Rachel Horton, Principal

 

 

 


From the Deputy Principal

Mr Ray Pearson

It is with great excitement that I welcome you all to the 2023 School year.

In commencing my role, I am humbled by the wonderful history of The Armidale School; the many remarkable achievements of alumni, the magnificent grounds and facilities and the world-class opportunities provided by the broad offerings provided by a TAS education. To this end, I appreciate the important role we all play as stewards of the School in maintaining the high standards and honouring those before us who have contributed to the outstanding legacy this School holds.

It is my aim to ensure that all students have a positive experience and positively impact the experience of others. I believe in the power of kindness, the value in hard work and the importance of doing the ‘little things’ well. I am excited to be working with the Student Leaders to unlock the student’s voice and collaboratively seek to enhance programs and practice wherever possible.

 

Mr Ray Pearson, Deputy Principal


School Executive Team

The TAS Executive represents all TAS staff and is charged with the responsibility for delivering the strategic goals of the School as well as ensuring its smooth operational effectiveness.
The following members of staff are on the School Executive.

Dr Rachel Horton
Principal
principal@as.edu.au

 

Mr Ray Pearson
Deputy Principal
deputyprincipal@as.edu.au

 

Mrs Gill Downes
Director of Teaching and Learning
dos@as.edu.au

 

Mr Pat Bradley
Business Manager
pbradley@as.edu.au

 

Mr AJ Whalley
Director of Pastoral Care
dpc@as.edu.au

 

Mr David Drain
Director of Boarding

Mr Luke Polson
Head of Middle School
lpolson@as.edu.au

 

Mr Scott Chittenden
Head of Junior School
schittenden@as.edu.au

 

Mr Huon Barrett
Director of Co-curricular
dcc@as.edu.au

 

Ms Cressida Mort
Director of Development and Marketing
cmort@as.edu.au

 

Ms Susannah Warrick
Compliance, Risk and Company Secretary
swarrick@as.edu.au