About us
Our Philosophy
At The LPS, we follow the Paideia philosophy, which focuses on educating the whole child—mind, body, and heart.
Originally from Greece, Paideia means the complete upbringing of a child. We believe all children should have access to the same rich learning experiences, helping them grow into kind, confident, and capable people. While every child learns at their own pace, all are included and supported. This approach helps us create a caring, inclusive community where every child can thrive.
Governance
The Launceston Preparatory School is governed by an incorporated Association open to current and former parents, educators, and supporters. A Board of Management—elected by the Association—oversees governance, financial accountability, and policy development, supported by a dedicated Governance and Finance Committee. The Board appoints a Principal to lead the school’s educational direction and manage staff, students, and parent engagement. Regular Board meetings with the Principal ensure informed decision-making aligned with the school’s strategic objectives. Financial management is overseen through monthly reporting by the Treasurer and Business Manager, and all financial records are independently audited. The Principal also leads staff development, curriculum planning, student wellbeing, and ensures compliance with all legal, safety, and educational standards. Together, the Board and leadership team maintain a strong, collaborative, and professional environment committed to high-quality education and care.
-
Board of Management – 2025
Chairperson: Craig Stenton
Deputy Chair (Senior): Judy Terry
Deputy Chair (Junior): Maeve Johnson
Treasurer: Michael Howard
Secretary & Public Officer: Maeve Johnson
Ordinary Members:
– Peter Elliott
– Andrew Peck
– Louis Benjamin
– Vanessa Van Bohemen
-
Enrolment Policy
Parent Code of Conduct
For all other policies, please email the school office at admin@lps.tas.edu.au
Commitment to Safeguarding Children and Young People
The Launceston Preparatory School has zero-tolerance towards abuse and neglect of children. We are committed to the rights of all children to feel safe and be safe when participating in our activities, services and programs.
Safeguarding children is a shared responsibility, it is reliant on all individuals within our organisation to place the best interest of children at the core of all actions and decisions concerning their safety and wellbeing.
As part of our commitment, we have developed a framework of policies, procedures and practices to support our personnel in meeting their responsibilities to protect children from all forms of abuse and neglect whilst in our care.
All our staff, including Board members, employees, casual staff, volunteers and contractors are required to observe our safeguarding children policies and practices without fail.
Management considers a failure to observe our safeguarding children policies, procedures and practices to be misconduct, and will result in appropriate disciplinary action. Depending on the seriousness of the misconduct, disciplinary action may include suspension while matters are investigated and/or dismissal. In addition to any internal disciplinary proceedings, any breaches of law will be reported to police.
History of The Launceston Preparatory School
Making a courageous decision in 1982, two dedicated Launceston educators (Mrs Margo Walsh and Mrs Jan Cooper) established The Launceston Preparatory School.
They envisioned a school that did not settle for mediocracy but provided for every child, constant academic challenges, opportunities for taking responsibility for themselves and others, confidence and resilience, all in a small by design setting that was at all times focused and nurturing.
Moving the school to 119 Elphin Road in 1985 after several years in the home of Mrs Margo Walsh, enabled The Launceston Preparatory School to offer more students and parents the unique experience of child-focused education at its best.
The small class sizes, individual and small group coaching, vertical groups, emphasis on morals and values plus a strong philosophical content saw the school flourish and grow while still maintain the school’s core values and vision.
The school continued to develop its grounds with innovative child-centered developments, acquiring a much-loved Greenfield for sport, inspiring art and music areas, purpose built Kindergrartern and Early Learning spaces and neighbouring buildings. All of these cater superbly for the child centered learning activities that occur daily, capturing each child’s interest and providing truly joyful experiences.
After being Principal for several years and teaching for many more at this remarkable school, I am still loathe to step completely away, as the joy in learning that occurs and the closeness of staff, students and parents promotes such confident, aware, multi-layered young people who will continually inspire, respect and lead others.
It has been a privilege to be associated with The Launceson Preparatory School.
Written By
Margaret Turner - 2025
