New principal joins Ag college

The WA College of Agriculture in Harvey has planted a new school principal.

Stephan Watt, pictured, has returned to the college to take over the reins from Neale Armstrong.

Mr Watt has been in the industry for more than three decades and has worked at four of the State’s five agricultural colleges.

However, this is not his first principal gig. He served as the principal at Cunderdin and Narrogin agricultural colleges before heading back to the South West.

“I’m very passionate about this style of education,” Mr Watt said.

“It provides students with practical hands-on skills to ensure they are job- ready when they leave school.”

Mr Watt taught at the college five years ago and said he was “extremely happy to be back”.

He also said he was impressed with the student leaders and their response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The school underwent a turbulent time when residential facilities were forced to close in order to stop the spread of the virus.

Students were made to work remotely and were unable to participate in the practical-based learning modules for a short period of time.

There is a light at the end of the tunnel however, with the school ball and agricultural show days — big events on the students’ calendars — all going ahead this year.

When Mr Watt is not at school, he can be found at the Harvey Hills Volunteer Fire Brigade, where he serves as the lieutenant.

He has been part of the brigade for 20 years and said community service was an important part of living in small communities.

The father of two also enjoys cycling on the weekends.