Ormiston College headmaster Brett Webster bows out after 19 years

After nearly 20 years leading one of the top schools in Redlands, its much-loved headmaster has called time. He opens up about his memorable and proud moments — and what he will miss most.

Brett Webster said he will miss the Ormiston College community.

The headmaster of one of southeast Queensland’s leading private schools, Ormiston College headmaster Brett Webster, has announced his retirement after leading the college for 19 years.

He will see out this academic year before begin a new chapter in his life.

Mr Webster said the college had transformed dramatically from the “relatively young school” he inherited in 2006 but it still retained a strong sense of community.

“I feel like Ormiston College has grown up, matured and taken its place among Australia’s highest-performing schools,” he said.

“There is a real sense of fellowship, optimism and collective confidence on campus.

“I believe it comes from sharing the experience of aiming high and working hard together to make ambitious goals a reality — and having plenty of fun along the way.

“It’s a little surreal to be the headmaster of students and then, years later, their offspring.

“It is a special time as we extend our connection with families through many years and multiple generations.’’

During his first year then Prime Minister, John Howard, paid the school a visit.

Headmaster of Ormiston College Brett Webster has announced his resignation at the end of the 2024 school year.

“It was more good luck than good management on my part, but some in the community suggested I must have had some pulling power,” he joked.

“It was nice to have a little bit of cred from the outset.’’

In the past two decades he had overseen multiple developments at the campus.

“I am just one of many on campus who loves their job and believes in what we do,” Mr Webster said.

“It’s about creating a positive culture, building spirit, sharing the vision, taking action and being part of something bigger than ourselves.

He was particularly proud of the college’s sports, music, technology and community progression during his term.

“Systematic and campus-wide improvements to our teaching methodologies over time has seen our college emerge as a Queensland leader in academic achievement,’’ he said.

“It’s satisfying to consider all the doors that this now opens for our graduates.

“Our sporting life has gone from strength to strength, with a record number of teams enjoying and growing through their involvement in school sport.

Mr Webster said the college has a bright future.

“Music is thriving, with record numbers of students cherishing their involvement in an extensive range of quality bands, ensembles and orchestras.

“Our art shows and dramatic productions always seem to surpass what audiences expect from a school.’’

Mr Webster said campus had come of age, with world-class learning spaces and beautiful landscaping creating a “wow factor”.

The thing he would miss most was the connection with the school community.

“(I’ll miss) The collegiality on staff and the daily contact with so many wonderful people, especially the students, who bring the life and laughter to campus each day, giving purpose to everything we do,” he said.

Holidays, family time and new career goals were among his future plans.

“It will be difficult to leave Ormiston College but at the same time, I am looking forward to some new adventures before I get too old,” Mr Webster said.

“The next phase for me will involve more time with family, including time with my ageing parents. We also have plans to travel next year.

College chairman John Miller said it was sad news for the school.

“I have worked closely with Brett. I know him well. I know him to be a man of great integrity whose vision, determination and drive is second to none,’’ he said.

“As the college seeks to build upon all these achievements even further, Brett will certainly leave some big shoes to fill.’’