Anthony Van Ruiten is the Principal of Willunga High School (WHS). His leadership experience in a broad range of school settings has reinforced a clear understanding of the impact of wellbeing for learning and the importance of strategically creating school structures, policy and procedures that enhance wellbeing for learning to promote academic excellence. The improvement journey at WHS has been a complex one, but one underpinned by a clear purpose of ensuring students are able to access learning through high quality differentiated teaching practices whilst being supported by effective and comprehensive wellbeing services. Anthony’s leadership of the strategic implementation of trauma informed practices in all aspects of school life has led Willunga High School to outstanding improvement in school culture and the learning environment, resulting in higher student academic achievement across all year levels, a rapid decline in student behaviour incidents and higher levels of student, self-reported, ‘belongingness to school’.

I am a dedicated educator, nationally certified as a LEAD Teacher and HALT assessor, recognised for my work as an Autism Inclusion Teacher under South Australia's statewide initiative and currently working as a Student Wellbeing Coordinator. With a strong interest in student wellbeing, I am committed to implementing evidence-based practices that enhance engagement and support academic success for all learners. My career is driven by a passion for inclusive education and has been recognised through several awards, including the 2022 South Australian Primary Teacher of the Year, the ECT Schools Plus Commonwealth Bank Award in 2023, and being named a Top 50 World Teacher Finalist in 2025. These achievements reflect my commitment to creating supportive, high-impact learning environments where every student can thrive.