New Carlton Primary School principal Gary Johnston excited to inject his personality

A deputy principal at Churton for the past five years, Gary Johnston will take over the reins as Carlton Primary School's new principal. Photo / Logan Tutty

The Carlton Primary School community is set to welcome its new leader when the school term starts next week.

Gary Johnston will replace long time principal Gaye O'Connor, who is retiring.

Johnston has been at Churton School for the last 13 years, filling a variety of roles over that time including being deputy principal for the last five years.

"I started as a student teacher. Did one of my placements and then went there as a pre-registration teacher and just naturally worked my way up over the years."

He credited Churton principal Andrew Spence with always presenting new opportunities to grow and advance.

"That is a huge factor as to why I am here now. It's never been an ambition, it has just come from taking opportunities that have come along. This was the second job I applied for, so it's not something I've been targeting. I've just been waiting for the right opportunity."

Johnston's enthusiasm for sports and arts has meant they have been strong focus areas for him.

He will continue to be the convenor for the Whanganui Primary School Sports Group, a group of lead teachers from schools across the Whanganui region who organise various interschool meets, but will play less of a role as he takes on more responsibility at Carlton.

He said the collaboration between schools will be vital, with many doing awesome projects.

"We want all the kids in Whanganui to do well. I'm looking forward to working with other principals and just collaborating. We want our kids to appreciate what they have, but also see the world is there if that want it."

Johnston steps in for long-time principal O'Connor, who has been at the school for the last 17 years.

"I've walked into a well set-up school. She has left an environment that has worked very well. It's just about taking that and growing and putting my personality on to what is a pretty fantastic school.

"My focus is on having a learning environment that is multifaceted and engaging for kids. I want kids to come to school and have fun."

Johnston will be formally welcomed with a powhiri when the school term starts on Monday.