Our principal and staff

Our school team is committed to every student’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging. We work together to create a supportive and inclusive school where every child is set up for success.

Welcome from our principal

At James Ruse Agricultural High School, our greatest and most remarkable strength lies in our students—the very heart and lifeblood of our school community. We are passionately dedicated to nurturing their extraordinary talents, expansive ambitions, and overall well-being within a supportive, inspiring, and intellectually stimulating environment. Our culture is built on fostering relentless curiosity, profound personal growth, and the mastery of skills that extend far beyond the classroom walls. We set the highest expectations, encouraging every student to embody responsibility, integrity, and respect in all aspects of their academic and social lives.

Joining a community of like-minded students, each gifted with exceptional academic abilities, presents an unparalleled opportunity to be challenged, inspired, and elevated by one another. Together, amongst some of the greatest young minds in the country, students engage in vibrant intellectual collaboration that sparks innovation, deepens understanding, and drives collective success.

We inspire our students to pursue learning with unwavering enthusiasm, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to achieving their absolute best. Active engagement, collaboration, and a positive, forward-thinking attitude are essential qualities that underpin both their academic success and personal development. Central to our guiding philosophy is the cultivation of exemplary character, captured by our proud motto:  Gesta Non Verba  — Deeds, Not Words. This powerful ideal motivates our students to translate their ambitions into meaningful, impactful actions, cultivating resilience, empathy, honesty, and leadership as indispensable qualities needed to confidently navigate the complexities of tomorrow’s world.

Situated at the core of our unique identity is an enduring connection to agriculture—a tradition that enriches our educational experience by grounding it in real-world, hands-on learning. Agriculture serves as a vibrant canvas for fostering creativity, sustainability, and innovation, enabling students to engage directly with authentic challenges and opportunities that shape our environment and society. This connection enhances their learning journey, equipping them with practical skills and a forward-looking mindset essential for becoming responsible leaders and change-makers.

Our commitment extends beyond academic excellence; we strive to support every student’s growth into a well-rounded, conscientious individual who lives by our values and actively contributes to the broader community. We invite you to explore our extraordinary community, discover the breadth and depth of our programs, and join us in creating a place where each student can thrive, lead with purpose, and embody a true spirit of excellence through action and impact.

At James Ruse Agricultural High School, greatness is nurtured, realised, and celebrated every day.

Matt Dopierala
Principal

Our staff

Our staff have experience and skills in and a passion for working with highly gifted students. We are in the fortunate position to be able to focus our professional learning of staff to specifically meet the needs of highly gifted students with our school development days making best use of the expertise within the school and, when appropriate experts from national and international universities to further our understanding and ensure we are guided by best practice in gifted education.

Many of our teaching staff have completed UNSW’s Mini Certificate for Gifted Education, and we are implementing the NSW DoE High Potential and Gifted Education Policy throughout all aspects of school life; additionally, more than half of our teachers participate in Professional Learning Communities dedicated to embedding Harvard Project Zero’s Visible Thinking, with the aim of enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes to inspire every student to achieve their personal best.

Our school leaders

Our school leaders, including our principal, guide teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.

Our school executive

Our teaching staff

Your child’s school experience is shaped by the people around them. Our professional, university-educated teachers encourage students to develop a love of learning and a desire to succeed. They maintain the highest integrity and concern for your child’s wellbeing.

The principal is responsible for the educational leadership and management of our school. If you would like to speak to the principal, please contact us to make an appointment.

Our school administrative staff can answer inquiries or direct you to the appropriate staff member for help. With a focus on success, they help every child reach their full potential.

Our teachers make the difference

Wellbeing and support staff

Our wellbeing and support staff guide student wellbeing, learning needs and inclusion. They work with teachers to make personalised adjustments. This means each child can take part fully in school life. We make our school welcoming and accessible to every child.

Administrative and operations staff

Our administrative and operations staff keep our school running smoothly. They support students, teachers and families every day. You can find them in our front office or on the school grounds.

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us