Western Australian Primary Principals’ Association
The Western Australian Primary Principals’ Association (WAPPA) is the professional association for leaders and aspiring leaders of primary school education across Western Australia.
Our aim is to be the influential voice and respected authority for public education; providing strategies for school leadership and advocacy for the profession by the profession.
Our objective is to be the professional association of choice for primary school leaders with a genuine commitment to relevance, inclusivity, transparency, wellbeing and clear channels of communication.
WAPPA membership is open to primary school leaders (principals and deputy principals) and teachers aspiring to be leaders.
We are working to build a strong, inclusive membership with effective practices, ensuring purpose and relevance in everything we do for our members and the education profession.
To support the diverse needs of our members, advocate at all levels and provide leadership development and engagement opportunities.
Quality Leadership through supported and connected leaders.
We are guided by our values to strengthen how we serve our members and exceed their expectations every day.
We embrace diversity and create an environment where everyone is recognised, valued and respected.
We foster a culture of collaboration and excellence. We hold our Association to the highest of expectations. We imagine what is possible and innovate to achieve the change.
We build trust by acting honestly, fairly and respectfully at all times. We operate in an environment of transparency and accountability.
We show open-mindedness and kindness because we value the needs, safety, health and wellbeing of our members and stakeholders.
In 1953, a group of industry thought-leaders identified the need for an association which would bring school leaders together for professional matters. A letter was sent to local schools, undersigned by Norm Elliot, Tom Ward and John Rintoul calling a meeting to discuss this prospect. At this time it was agreed that an association would be formed and so, on 25 November 1953 the inaugural meeting of the ‘Metropolitan Association of Headmasters and Headmistresses’ would be called to order.
Norm Elliot (pictured) was named as the first President, along with John Rintoul as Vice President. In its initial year the association held its first social dinner, as well as a one day course of professional discussions.
In 1974 the name was changed to the Western Australian Primary Principals’ Association, affectionately known as WAPPA.
The first WAPPA conference was held in 1974, an event which has become a significant milestone on education leaders’ calendars. From humble beginnings, the conference has continued to grow and expand its offering for members and guests, introducing international speakers and a broad range of exhibitors.
Over the next decade, the membership built to a base of 272 in 1984 and would continue to grow.
On 28 May 1997 President Tony Misich was joined by Mr Colin Barnett, Minister for Education for the opening of the WAPPA Business and Leadership Centre in Tuart Hill. The WAPPA Management Committee was driven to develop a ‘new professional level’, excited by the opportunities that their own premises would bring.
WAPPA has sinced moved to the current premises in West Leederville.
In 2014 WAPPA undertook a significant organisational review which culminated in the articulation of strategic work priorities that are aligned with the current needs of our profession. With over 1100 members, WAPPA is in a strong position to service it’s members.
© WAPPA 2025
