The Parkside principal of the year
Schools
A primary school principal based on the fringes of the Adelaide CBD is in line for a major award at a national gathering next month.
Emma Fowler, who is heads up St Raphael’s School, Parkside, is one of just two people in line for the prestigious ‘Primary School Principal of the Year – non Government’ at the Australian Education Awards 2026 to be held in Sydney in early August.
The awards, now in their ninth year, celebrate the outstanding achievements of Australia’s top performing schools, principals and staff across 29 categories.
“As principal, I am privileged to lead a school that places relationships at the centre of learning and where every child is encouraged to grow with confidence, curiosity and compassion,” said Emma.
“Our commitment to nurturing the whole child, academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually underpins everything we do and inspires us to continually seek new ways to enrich learning and wellbeing outcomes.
“Being shortlisted is both humbling and affirming and it strengthens my commitment to ensuring that every student at St Raphael’s feels known, valued and empowered to be the best version of themselves.”
