Mary Ann S. Turnbull, Director

Mary Ann Turnbull received her B.Sc. in Psychology from the University of Toronto. She then pursued graduate studies there in Child Development. She later received her B.Ed. and M.Ed. from the University of Ottawa, as well as the Specialist level in Special Education.

Since the early 1970's she has been involved in the field of education, as a teacher and as an administrator developing programs, as well as training and supervising teachers. She has extensive experience in assessing students' academic needs and programming for their success.

In 1995, Mary Ann Turnbull received the distinction of being named the "Educational Leader of the Year" at the provincial level of the Council for Exceptional Children for her contribution to education. In addition she was the 1995 recipient of the Businesswoman's Achievement Award (sponsored by the Ottawa Citizen and the Women's Business Network) in honour of her business contribution to the community. In 1999 Mary Ann and the staff were honoured by the Ottawa Board of Trade, receiving the Bronze Award in the "Business of the Year" category. The Board highlighted their community service and professional excellence as major factors for presenting this award.

Mary Ann’s community volunteer Board work has included being a former Director of Scouts Canada Foundation Board and Treasurer of the Executive Committee, United Way.  Presently she sits on the Board of Help Lesotho.   Mary Ann also supports a number of charitable endeavours within Ottawa.

Gareth Reid, Principal

Gareth Reid has been a teacher at Turnbull School since 1998 and, prior to returning to Ottawa, taught at an independent school in British Columbia. In 2003 he moved into administration as Principal of our Senior School, and in 2007 he was appointed overall Principal of the school.

Mr. Reid has a B.Ed. in Physical Education and Geography from McGill University, and a M.Ed. from the University of Southern Queensland, Australia with a major in Leadership and Management. In addition, Gareth has qualifications in Intermediate Mathematics from the University of Ottawa and Guidance from Nipissing University. He has also completed the Diploma in Independent School Leadership from the Canadian Association of Independent Schools and Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education, Principals’ Center’s Certificate, Improving Schools: The Art of Leadership.

As a teacher at our school, Gareth has taught mathematics, Study Skills and physical education, coached school teams as well as being our Senior School Mediator. As a teacher and Principal, our students and parents have appreciated his fair, calm and reasonable approach. Gareth enthusiastically heads our school and promotes the standards of excellence and caring that leads our students to experience so much success.

Joyce Walker-Steed, Registrar

Joyce Walker-Steed, Registrar, began working as a teacher at the Turnbull Learning Centre in the late 1980s. She received her B.A. in Political Science and her B.Ed. with Special Education training from Queen's University in Kingston. Joyce moved to Montreal with her family in 1994, where she became the Associate Director of a learning centre. Upon her return to Ottawa in 2004, she became Principal of Turnbull’s August summer school and completed graduate studies in teaching English as a Second Language from the University of Saskatchewan.

Joyce is experienced and qualified in a wide range of academic testing and programming for the needs and strengths of students of all ages. She is regarded as a caring and empathetic educator, who exemplifies the culture and values of Turnbull School. What you may appreciate most about Joyce is that she is a mother of five children and can warmly relate to other parents!  Joyce looks forward to welcoming and working with families coming to our School.

Buddy Clinch, Vice Principal

Buddy Clinch is the Vice Principal of the Junior School (JK to Grade 6) and has been at Turnbull School since 1999. Prior to this, he worked in the province of Quebec for six years as a primary and junior teacher, Vice Principal and Head Teacher.

Mr. Clinch has a B.Ed. from McGill University, with a Major in Primary/Junior Education, and the Diploma in Independent School Leadership from the Canadian Association of Independent Schools. He has also achieved additional qualifications in Guidance. He has been a homeroom teacher in our school in Grades 4 and 6, which includes teaching Language Arts, mathematics, science, physical education, music, study and social skills. He has shown leadership in so many facets of Turnbull School, including coaching, intramurals, our plays and music celebrations, mentoring new staff and student teachers from the University of Ottawa. Mr. Clinch greatly enjoys his role as Assistant Band Director. He has sound knowledge of the curriculum and the developmental stages of children, and his patience, kindness and understanding are traits that both parents and students appreciate when working with him.

Craig Dunn, Vice Principal

Craig Dunn is the Vice Principal of the Senior School (Grades 7 and 8). He began teaching in 1994 and joined Turnbull School in 1997. Mr. Dunn has been involved in teaching and coaching at all levels of the school, as well as being the school’s Head of Physical Education and Athletics. He believes deeply in a holistic approach to education, where athletics, music and the arts are integral components of a well rounded education. He is known for his innovative ways to enrich academics through motivating, cross curricular activities.

Mr. Dunn has a B.Ed. from McGill University and the Diploma in Independent School Leadership from the Canadian Association of Independent Schools. With his commitment to life-long learning, Craig has acquired additional curriculum qualifications, including Intermediate English, the Specialist levels of Computers in Education and Cooperative Education, as well as his Junior Division qualifications. He is a positive role model, and the students, staff and parents have come to admire his energy, commitment and innovative ideas.