Announcement regarding Principal Susan Just

Dear members of the Lauriston Community,

On behalf of School Council, I am writing to advise that after over 14 years of outstanding leadership of Lauriston, Principal Susan Just has advised that she will be stepping down from her role at the end of the 2025 academic year.

During her tenure, Susan has led Lauriston with exceptional vision and dedication, and as a school, we are enormously grateful for the legacy that she leaves behind her. Under Susan’s guidance, Lauriston has flourished. Susan is a recognised leading educator, and Lauriston’s academic programs have continued to evolve under her forward-thinking leadership, exemplified with the early introduction of the FabLearn Lab in partnership with Stanford University, and the continued shaping of the curriculum, resulting in an ongoing increase in students pursuing STEM related tertiary pathways.

Susan’s commitment to the Howqua program has seen its continued evolution. The life-changing skills and experiences Howqua provides the Year 9 students is an indelible signature of a Lauriston education. It is fitting that in this last year the school has announced plans for the introduction of an additional Howqua house to accommodate the growing population of students participating in this formative program.

2025 will see the current Armadale campus master plan come to conclusion, leaving the school with wonderful new facilities including the Ullmer Sports and Well-being centre, Year 5 & 6 Centre, soon to be completed Blairholme Early Learning Centre, and the enviable Adventure Playground.

Lastly, a hallmark of Susan’s time at Lauriston has been her focus on student and staff health and well-being. This is demonstrated by the various programs and initiatives that are an integral part of a Lauriston education. Beyond this, the care and attention Susan has paid to every single student, family, member of staff, alumnae and patron is ingrained in her character. Susan’s personal approach has become synonymous with the unique culture of our School; our inclusive Lauriston community. A highly visible and accessible leader, her absence will be deeply felt. We wish her all the very best in the future and are certain that her passion for the development of young people will continue to see her contributing and influencing the education landscape.

The Council has appointed an independent executive search firm to support it in a national and international search process for the next Principal, who will lead the School from 2026. Susan’s continued leadership of Lauriston over the next 14 months will ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition.

On behalf of the School Council and the entire Lauriston community, I extend our deepest appreciation to Susan for her leadership and service. We look forward to honouring Susan’s legacy and contributions in her final year.

Claudette Leeming 

Chair, 
Lauriston School Council