Dr Colin Pettit

We are delighted to have as our inaugural patron, a man of great integrity, generosity and wisdom.

Dr Colin Pettit has dedicated his professional life to improving the wellbeing, education, and opportunities of children and young people, with a particular focus on those living in regional and remote communities of Western Australia and Tasmania.

He began his career as a teacher and principal in regional schools before moving into senior leadership as Executive Director of Regional and Remote Education in WA. From 2010 to 2015, he served as Secretary of the Tasmanian Department of Education, shaping policy and practice at a system-wide level. Colin has also led within the profession as President of the Primary Principals’ Association of WA and Deputy President of the Australian Primary Principals’ Association.

In 2015, he was appointed WA’s Commissioner for Children and Young People, where he gave priority to Aboriginal children and young people, and those most vulnerable, ensuring their voices informed decisions and services across the State. His contributions have extended to cultural and community initiatives, and in 2019 he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Education from Edith Cowan University.
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Colin’s lifelong commitment to education and his deep respect for the profession make him an outstanding choice as Patron of the Professional Teaching Council of WA.