By Peter Douglas
NEW Federal Speaker and Casey MP, Tony Smith, recently exchanged his speaker’s cap for a principal’s at Birmingham Primary School.
Mr Smith took up an offer to become ‘principal for a day’ at the school
The MP’s itinerary was jam-packed, which included participating in a parent forum and a guided inspection of the facilities.
Mr Smith’s ‘duties’ included meeting with teachers, talking with school leaders, and participating in a welcome assembly for a group of visiting students from Costa Rica.
“Most importantly, I spoke to the Grade 6 students about democracy and the workings of the Australian Parliament,” he said.
“The kids were very attentive and inquisitive, and it was fantastic to see them all get involved in a mock parliament I chaired.
“It is a real testament to the great work of the teachers.”
Mr Smith said there were no loud theatrics, as would normally be the case in parliament.
“The students were very well behaved,” he said.
“There were no warnings at all, let alone any suspensions from the mock parliament.”
Mr Smith said he really enjoyed his time at the school.
“Being a principal definitely has its challenges, but Trish Enzinger does a fantastic job, so I am pleased to leave it back in her capable hands,” he said.
Regular principal Ms Enzinger said the invitation initially came about because Year 6 students were taking a unit on parliament.
