This past month has flown by. I have met the most amazing children and have loved the interaction with staff and pupils. What has struck me about Tyger Valley College is that it really has a big heart.

I have made a point of spending as much time as possible chatting to the pupils. I have found them to be very friendly and engaging. They are always willing to share openly and candidly, not only the positive aspects of the school, but also areas that they might be concerned about. This input is vital and very valuable for me as their Principal and I have encouraged them to continue to engage with me as they have. While speaking to the pupils, I specifically ask them what makes our school so special. Most of them mentioned the fact that they felt that the teachers really care about them and have their best interests at heart. They also said that they enjoy the small school environment and that everyone knows their name. Many of them mentioned that it has a family feel to it.

I also made a point of scheduling appointments with all the high school staff. The idea was to spend some time with each one of them, getting to know them better. I also asked them what it is about Tyger Valley College that they enjoy. Without fail, the first aspect they all mentioned was that they enjoy teaching and interacting with the children. Most of them elaborated on this by simply saying “they are amazing kids”. They also mentioned that they enjoyed working with their fellow staff members at the school. These are two vital ingredients in running a successful school and I am very pleased to find that it is a happy environment such as this that our children find themselves in.

While our pupils have good manners, there is always room for improvement and so I addressed the school at a recent assembly on the topic of manners and appearance. I challenged them to display impeccable manners at all times and to always look smart. In return, I undertook to do the same. I have no doubt that they are up for the challenge.

I have enjoyed my first month at Tyger Valley College very much. I would like to sincerely thank all of you for welcoming me the way you have and for making me feel so much a part of the school so quickly. I look forward to many more years with you and making many more happy memories.

Clyde Mac Donald

High School Principal