Women of Warren Shire - Robyn Taylor
23 August 2023
Born and raised in Warren Shire, Robyn Taylor is a mother, educator, keen gardener, bookworm and Warren Pumas fan.
Robyn has been a familiar face at Warren Central School for many years as a student, teacher, and now the Deputy Principal. Here, she works tirelessly to support students academically, socially and emotionally to reach their full potential.
A selfless mentor with a passion for rural education, we celebrate Robyn’s contributions as this month’s Woman of Warren Shire.
Quickfire questions…
A usual morning looks like…
A quiet cup of tea… then work face on!
When school starts, it’s busy – typically organising class covers, meetings, responding to student needs and supporting staff. There is always something happening that makes every day worthwhile and gives me a sense of achievement.
I’m most proud of…
The life and family I have created. My four children all fill me with pride. They are my biggest supporters, as I am theirs.
I’m also extremely proud of the successes we have at school, where every student is known, valued and cared for. We celebrate these successes, big and small.
On the weekend you can find me…
Looking for a quiet space, enjoying coffee and catching up on the events of the week with my children.
I am a keen gardener and bookworm, and I also enjoy watching the Warren Pumas [rugby team] play despite still not knowing all the rules!
A quote or piece of advice you live by…
“If you want something done, ask a busy person!” and “Everyone is responsible: the standard you walk past is the standard you accept.”
My Mum also taught me that fresh flowers will make a room appear clean, and to never leave the house without your lipstick.
How long have you lived in Warren Shire?
I was born in Warren, so I am a real local!
What is your favourite place in Warren Shire?
My home in Dubbo Street is my sanctuary but a visit to “Haddon Rig” always feels like home.
The library also is a favourite space – the staff always know when school holidays are about to start!
Some more about you…
What do you love most about Warren Shire?
The community who rallies both in times of distress or disaster and in celebration. The generosity always amazes me and often that support is from unknown sources.
Can you tell us a bit about your journey, including some of your most significant achievements?
I attended both St Mary’s Parish School and Warren Central School (WCS). I was fortunate to receive a full scholarship for university and graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Agriculture) and a Graduate Diploma in Education.
Most of my teaching career has been at WCS but I have taught in other rural centres and also for a short time in Western Australia.
At WCS I was permanently appointed as a Maths teacher but have taught predominately in the Agriculture/Science area, and have been the Careers Advisor and Head Teacher Secondary Studies.
With strong support and encouragement, I applied for the Deputy Principal (DP) position which I have held for the past three years. The DP position allows me to work with Kindergarten through to Year 12 and I thoroughly enjoy the interactions I have every day with both staff and students.
I am proud of the team I lead and the work we do developing the whole student in the academic, social and emotional domains.
Having been both a student and teacher at Warren Central School, what is it about the country school experience that’s so special?
The unique and special environment for both students and teachers, especially the sense of community where students and teachers develop strong relationships and support networks.
Learning is personalised with smaller classes and individualised attention, which can lead to a deeper understanding of each student’s strengths and learning styles.
I have very fond memories of my days as a student at WCS and still have contact with some of those teachers. They were a huge influence on the career pathway I chose and have had a lasting impact on both my personal and professional development.
I love seeing my students outside of the classroom setting and in the community at their workplaces or weekend sports. These are invaluable opportunities to build rapport and positive relationships which are transferred to the school setting.
You’re now fondly known by students and their parents as the Deputy Principal at Warren Central School. What do you enjoy most about this role?
The sense of belonging and the daily interactions with students, parents and staff to create a positive learning environment.
The opportunity to support and guide students on their educational journeys while working collaboratively with teachers and parents to enhance the overall school experience is especially rewarding.
The DP role allows me to indulge in a variety of tasks every day and to connect with students from K-12 with very different demands. All my decision-making is student centred.
It is a rewarding job, and it is hard work but I thoroughly enjoy it!
What advice would you give to other women living in rural communities?
Pursue education, embrace leadership, advocate for resources, balance responsibilities with self-care, cultivate resilience, support each other and celebrate achievements.
To nominate a Warren Shire woman to be featured in this series, email media@warren.nsw.gov.au