Former principal Tamarin Condon will not return to Wallaroo Mines Primary School
An investigation into the conduct of a primary school principal while at camp remains ongoing, but the Education Department has revealed who will be at the helm next year.
Parents of children attending Wallaroo Mines School have finally been given clarity about the leadership at their school after the former principal was stood down pending investigation by the Department of Education.
A letter was sent home to parents on Wednesday informing them that Tamarin Condon will not be returning to the school in the new year.
The Advertiser understands that the decision to depart the Yorke Peninsula primary school was made by Ms Condon.
A series of complaints were lodged against Ms Condon alleging inappropriate conduct with Education Minister, Blair Boyer confirming she had been placed on leave while an investigation was underway in November.
Speaking to The Advertiser, parents said they felt “uncomfortable” after finding out that Ms Condon and her husband attended the school camp without their knowledge.
Wednesday’s correspondence, from education director, David Cowles, said the principal role would be “readvertised statewide in term 1, 2026”.
“Recruitment will occur through a full merit selection process, with a new principal to be appointed for a ten-year term,” the letter said.
“We aim to complete this process in term 1, with the intention of the successful applicant commencing in term 2, 2026.”
Mr Knowles added that the current interim principal, Tim McLeod will continue at the school for the rest of the year and term 1 next year before assisting with a “comprehensive handover”.
School parent, Cass Kay said while Mr McLeod has been “amazing” her decision to enrol her children at another school for 2026 had not changed.
“(Tim’s) a very likeable guy and I’m glad he’s in charge while my kids finish up at the school,” Ms Kay said.
“But the uncertainty of who will be there on a 10 year contract is why we can’t just stay.”
The Advertiser understands that parents and students have been interviewed about circumstances related to the school camp that Ms Condon and her husband attended.
The Advertiser’s requests for comment to Ms Condon went unanswered.
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Originally published as Former principal Tamarin Condon will not return to Wallaroo Mines Primary School
