AS STUDENTS get ready to take their mid-year holidays, Fraser Coast Anglican College principal Leisa Harper prepares to hit the books at Harvard University.

Mrs Harper is one of just 10 people from around the world to be selected to attend the intensive one-week course at one of America's most iconic learning institutions.

Mrs Harper said she was both excited and nervous.

"I'm really quite chuffed actually. I certainly didn't expect it," she said.

"For me it is a great opportunity to be back in that learning seat. There is a bit of pressure as well, it's not just me reading some articles. I will be very much studying and writing and reading every night.

"It's certainly been a goal of mine to achieve this. As an educator, Harvard is at the top of our dreams in terms of education. It's always been the Holy Grail of education."

The course, which starts on Saturday, is offered annually and will focus on leadership in teaching. It involves seven full days of study with a final exam at the end of the week.

Mrs Harper said her participation in the course reflected more than just a personal goal as she hoped to represent the Fraser Coast and bring the knowledge she gained back to the region.