Western Australian Primary Principals' Association - WAPPA

26/08/2026

🎤 SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT | Andrew Horabin

Ready for a little more straight talk at work?

Andrew Horabin is bringing his fast, funny and refreshingly practical session, BULLSHIFT – Get More Straight Talk At Work By Changing Your Focus to the 2026 Fotoworks WAPPA Conference. All delegates registered for Conference will receive a copy of Andrew's book, Bullshift.

A professional speaker, facilitator, comedian and author, Andrew has spent more than 30 years working with tens of thousands of people across hundreds of organisations, including 150 schools.

His Conference session will explore the communication habits that shape our relationships, why so much gets lost between subtext and text and what school leaders can do to move from “nice but vague” to “nice and clear”.

📚 BOOKS for Sale
We will have a selection of books from our Conference speakers available to purchase during the event.

🔗 Meet our Speakers → wappa.au/2026-wappa-conference-speakers/

21/08/2026

🎬 Less than three weeks to go!

The 2026 Fotoworks WAPPA Conference is almost here, and if you’ve been thinking about joining us, now is the time to register!

From 16–18 September at Crown Perth, school leaders from across WA will come together for three days of professional learning, fresh perspectives, meaningful conversations and connection.

And our Lights, Camera, Action! Gala Dinner is almost at capacity, with just 15 seats remaining before it is officially SOLD OUT!

Conference registrations are still available, including three-day and individual day options.

Join us for The Lens We Choose and be part of one of WAPPA’s biggest events of the year.

🔗 Register now → wappa.au/2026-conference/



https://youtu.be/AClsP6mcvQA

This footage is from the 2025 WAPPA Conference

18/08/2026

🌿 Learning through Culture at North Beach Primary School

Students at North Beach Primary School are experiencing the power of learning through culture through the Dancing on Country pilot program.

Delivered by Aboriginal educators, the program brings together traditional dance, storytelling and language to deepen students’ understanding of First Nations culture and connection to Country.

Inspired by respected Noongar Elder Pop Noel Nannup’s story The Creators of Everything, students have brought cultural knowledge to life through dance, movement and learning on Country. The impact has extended beyond the program, with students embracing Indigenous language and incorporating it into everyday school life.

It is a powerful example of how authentic cultural learning can foster understanding, respect and inclusion while enriching the educational experience for students.

🔗Read more about Learning through Culture and watch the ABC feature on Dancing on Country: https://wappa.au/learning-through-culture/

13/08/2026

Only 20 Gala Dinner places remain!

Three days of learning, connection and inspiration, topped off with one unforgettable night at the WAPPA Gala Dinner.

If you are planning to attend the full 2026 Fotoworks WAPPA Conference and have not registered yet, now is the time.

Once the remaining Gala Dinner places are filled, three-day Conference registrations will remain available, but Gala Dinner attendance will move to a waitlist.

Want the complete Conference experience? Secure your place now.
👉 Register: wappa.au/2026-wappa-conference/

07/08/2026

Today, we join with APPA and school communities across Australia to celebrate Primary Principals' Day and recognise the extraordinary work of those leading our primary schools.

At WAPPA, we believe great leadership is built through collaboration. While today shines a spotlight on principals, we also celebrate deputy principals and leadership teams whose collective expertise, care and commitment help schools and communities thrive.

Our commitment has always been to support all leaders, all levels, because every leadership role plays an important part in creating positive outcomes for students, staff and school communities.

To every school leader across Western Australia, new or seasoned, thank you. Your dedication is deeply appreciated.

Happy Primary Principals' Day!

06/08/2026

One of the most anticipated events of the WAPPA Conference is almost at capacity! Just 25 seats left.

Join school leaders, partners and guests for a night of celebration, connection and entertainment as we embrace this year's theme, Lights, Camera, Action! 🎬

Whether you're catching up with colleagues, celebrating the profession or simply looking for a fantastic night out, now is the time to secure your place.

🎟️ Only 25 Gala Dinner seats remain and are limited to new registrations for the 3-day Conference option.

Don't miss out.

🔗 https://wappa.au/2026-wappa-conference/

04/08/2026

Today, we had the privilege of welcoming Life Members, retired principals, past presidents, former Board Members and long-standing members to our Celebration Breakfast held at the Pagoda.

While we gathered to celebrate 30 years since WAPPA's professional level in 1996, the morning also honoured the much longer journey that came before it. From the early networks of primary school leaders in the 1950s and the formation of WAPPA in the 1970s, to the bold decisions that strengthened the Association for future generations, it was a chance to reflect on the people, relationships and shared purpose that built the foundations we continue to stand on today.

The room was filled with stories, memories and laughter, sharing moments that have shaped WAPPA across the decades. It was a powerful reminder that while our Association continues to evolve, its greatest strength has always been its people.

To everyone who has contributed to WAPPA's story, thank you. Your leadership, commitment and willingness to serve have created a legacy that continues to support and inspire school leaders across Western Australia.

Here's to honouring our history, celebrating the present and looking confidently to the future.

31/07/2026

Next week marks the beginning of National Primary Week, with celebrations culminating in Primary Principals' Day on Friday, 7 August.

At WAPPA, we have always recognised Primary Principals' Day as an opportunity to celebrate ALL school leaders. While the day shines a spotlight on primary principals, it also acknowledges the deputy principals and leadership teams, whose collaborative leadership strengthens school communities and creates better outcomes for students.

This week, we encourage school communities to take a moment to recognise and thank the leaders who inspire, support and guide others every day.

We'd love to celebrate with you. If your school is marking Primary Principals' Day on Friday, share your celebrations by tagging WAPPA or posting your photos in the comments.

APPA has developed a range of resources and ideas to help schools celebrate:
🔗 https://appa.asn.au/events/national-primary-principals-day/

27/07/2026

Our 2026 Fotoworks WAPPA Conference Exhibition is officially sold out!

We are thrilled to welcome 50+ exhibitors to this year's Conference.

Our exhibitors are much more than sponsors. They are valued partners in education, bringing fresh ideas, practical solutions and specialist expertise that help support school leaders in their everyday work. From innovative technologies and learning resources to wellbeing, leadership and school services, the exhibition is an opportunity for delegates to explore what's new, ask questions and make valuable connections.

Their support also plays an important role in making Conference possible. Through their sponsorship and participation, our exhibitors help us deliver an exceptional professional learning experience for delegates while continuing to invest in opportunities that benefit our members.

To each of our exhibitors, thank you for partnering with WAPPA. We look forward to welcoming you to Crown Perth and introducing you to school leaders from across Western Australia.

Take a look at the organisations you'll meet at Conference:
🔗wappa.au/2026-wappa-conference-exhibitors

13/07/2026

Meet Thursday's Keynote Speaker – Adam Axford

On Thursday, 17 September, we're excited to welcome Adam Axford to the stage at the 2026 Fotoworks WAPPA Conference.

In his keynote, "Six Impossible Things. Forget Normal, Choose Magic", Adam will inspire delegates to rediscover curiosity, wonder and possibility in a rapidly changing world. Blending poetry, storytelling and moments of awe, he'll challenge us to think differently, embrace creativity and leave with a renewed perspective on leadership and human connection.

Take a moment to hear Adam's invitation to Conference below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3sT9yuM9mk
We can't wait to welcome him to .

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