Ms Jenny Allum B.Sc. M.A. Dip. Ed. F.A.C.E.
“The quality of education offered at SCEGGS is second to none. The caring and professional approach of our teachers, the wide range of co-curricular activities and the commitment to meeting individual needs, all contribute to this quality. I feel privileged and excited to be leading this special School into the future.”
Background
Ms Allum began her career teaching Mathematics at Abbotsleigh and Pymble Ladies College. Here she developed her interest in the education of young women and strong belief in the value of a broad, rigorous and well-rounded curriculum, supported by an extensive activities program. Her skills and expertise were further developed as Director of Studies at Central Coast Grammar School.
From 1991–1995 she was Manager of the Curriculum Branch of the NSW Board of Studies, developing all school curriculum in the State from Kindergarten to Year 12. She was also responsible for the registration program of non-government schools in NSW.
Career at SCEGGS
Appointed to SCEGGS in 1996, Ms Allum worked to understand the distinctive qualities and values of a SCEGGS education, while strengthening and improving programs where necessary. She believes in listening and reflecting on the thoughts of parents, students and staff to celebrate strengths and successes, and to work on areas in need of improvement.
Under her leadership two strategic plans have been developed and released:
2020 Vision was created in 1997 to outline the school’s values, vision for education and goals for the future centring on education, staff management and facilities. Under Ms Allum’s leadership the curriculum has been expanded and a rigorous staff appraisal process established. This strategic plan was updated and revised in 2003.
80-minute lessons were introduced in 2002 in response to changing teaching and learning styles that increasingly emphasise independent and small group learning and the seamless integration of technology in the classroom.
Ms Allum has also encouraged a strong pastoral program and expanded co-curricular activities. Staff work very hard to nurture the individuality of students, helping them to be happy and confident young women. Activities such as Skiing, Touch Football, Life Drawing, Photography and Air Cadets (in conjunction with Sydney Grammar), have all been introduced, and the range of Music and Drama activities expanded and enhanced.
Quality staffing
Ms Allum works on a fundamental belief that quality staff are the key to a quality education. Staff at SCEGGS are highly valued, encouraged in their professional development and provided with a stimulating educational environment in which to work. Her appreciation and fostering of the excellence of her Staff ensures that under her leadership, SCEGGS remains committed to developing confident, competent and accomplished young women who will become committed, thoughtful and compassionate members of their society.
Underpinning Ms Allum’s work in the educational arena has been the physical development of the School including the:
- Refurbishment of the Old Girls’ Building in 2000
- New Wilkinson House Senior Studies Centre in 2002
- New Primary School completed in 2003
- Opening of The Diana Bowman Centre Performing Arts Centre in 2006