Meet the 90+ new principals at Victorian public, private and Catholic schools for 2024
A woman who spent a decade working in public health research and in not-for-profit roles is among the new generation of leaders taking the reins at 90+ Victorian schools this year. Meet them here.
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A woman who spent a decade working in public health research and in not-for-profit roles is among the new generation of leaders taking the reins at 90+ Victorian schools this year.
Meet them here.
David Broadbent – Aquinas College, Ringwood
David Broadbent is an experienced faith educator and leader, with 30 years in Catholic education across five schools.
Previously the professional culture deputy principal at Marymede Catholic College in South Morang, he has spent the last 18 years in leadership positions in student wellbeing, teaching and learning, staff wellbeing and operations.
As a teacher, his great passion is history, but has also taught religious education, humanities, English, politics and music.
“I look forward to working in partnership with the families, students and staff of Aquinas in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment which motivates, rewards and challenges students to achieve their personal best,” Mr Broadbent said.
“The year has started very positively, learning from and with the students, staff and families of Aquinas College about what makes our community so valued, and how I can support our community to continue to grow this sense of belonging.”
Lorna Beegan – Strathcona Girls Grammar, Canterbury
Lorna Beegan has more than 25 years of experience in education and is passionate about providing exceptional academic programs that inspires students to grow and thrive.
Prior to Strathcona, she was the deputy principal of strategy and innovation at Genazzano FCJ College, where she oversaw the school’s strategic direction, innovation, and quality assurance, alongside her role as director of the Genazzano Institute.
She has a Masters of Educational Leadership from the University of Western Australia, degrees from the University of Dublin and University College Dublin, and has studied additional courses at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
“I’m delighted to have joined Strathcona Girls Grammar this year, as 2024 marks the school’s 100th year of developing intellectually curious, optimistic, and life-ready young women,” Ms Beegan said.
“Looking forward, there are many things I’m excited about including the opening of our new state-of-the art Early Years precinct, celebrating our centennial, and getting to know every single one of our students.”
Reuben Johnson – Nazareth Catholic School, Grovedale
Reuben Johnson joins the Nazareth community from the Northern Territory after spending three years there working at Mother Teresa Catholic Primary.
He has returned to Victoria to be closer to family and especially a new grandchild.
Mr Johnson has joined Nazareth with 15 years experience as a principal in Catholic education, with experience in secondary and tertiary education as well.
He is a keen fisherman and golfer who is enjoying all that Geelong has to offer.
Kellie Noonan – St Brendan’s School, Flemington
Kellie Noonan has worked in Catholic education for more than 30 years, and is passionate about inclusivity, diversity and advocacy for those who need extra support to learn and grow.
“I am honoured to have been appointed as the new principal of St Brendan’s School in Flemington,” Ms Noonan said.
”It is a privilege to have been chosen to lead this exceptional community, and I look forward to being part of our children’s learning journey and encouraging each one to grow and flourish.”
Guy Cassarchis – East Preston Islamic College, Preston
Guy Cassarchis is an Australian qualified and Victorian registered teacher and school leader with more than 36 years’ experience both within Australia and internationally.
His experiences in education include roles such as: CEO/Headmaster (Early Years – Year 12), Whole School Principal, Co-Principal, Deputy Principal (Preparatory – Year 12), Head of Senior School, Head of House (Pastoral and Wellbeing Leader), Director of Personal Development, Health, Physical Education and Sport K – 12, Head of Physical Education and GSV Sport K – 12, Head of Department, Head of Year, Outdoor Education and Health and Physical Education teacher.
“As we progress through this academic year initiating these educational programs, the focus is on our students and making sure that they are enjoying coming to school to learn and have fun with their peers in a safe and productive environment,” Mr Cassarchis said.
Tracey Kift – Penola Catholic College, Broadmeadows
Tracey Kift is the fifth principal of Penola Catholic College, and its first female principal.
She has spent 20 years in leadership roles in Catholic education, including as deputy principal of Kolbe Catholic College and Marymede Catholic College.
She also spent time working as a journalist, before her passion for education drew her back into the classroom.
As well as being a passionate teacher, Ms Kift is an avid, lifelong learner and is currently completing a master’s degree in theology.
“I am excited to build on the strong foundations established by the past principals and
to support the College to continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of our
students,” Ms Kift said.
Rudy Vail – Our Lady Help of Christians, Eltham
Rudy Vail has been in education for 15 years and is the new principal at Our Lady Help of Christians (OLHC) in Eltham.
Before working at OLHC, he was the deputy principal of St. Richard’s Primary school in Kilsyth where he was also the wellbeing and religious education leader.
“This year I am really excited about working with his new community and building a strong culture of parent-school engagement,” Mr Vale said.
Grace Frazzica – St Peter’s Catholic Primary School, South West Sunshine
Grace Frazzica has an extensive educational background, spanning a Bachelor of Arts in Youth Work and Community Services, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Experimental Learning and Human Development, a Bachelor of Education in Primary, and a Masters of Education in Wellbeing in Inclusive School.
She has accrued significant experience in diverse youth work and educational settings, such as a transitional school, juvenile justice centre, and Catholic primary schools, where she has fulfilled both classroom and leadership roles over the past 16 years.
“In 2024, I’m most looking forward to fostering an environment where student agency flourishes, parent/carers advocacy is embraced, and staff autonomy is respected, ultimately creating a vibrant school community where each stakeholder feels empowered and valued in their educational journey,” Ms Frazzica said.
Nick Frederiksen – St Paul’s Primary School, Monbulk
Nick Frederiksen has been a teacher for 16 years, with the last seven years as deputy principal at St. Joseph’s, Boronia.
He had a short period as acting principal at Sacred Heart Yea before his first appointment as principal of St. Paul’s Monbulk at the start of the 2024 school year.
Before teaching, he ran campsites in France, the UK, and Austria.
He has spent most of his adult life running camps for children and adults with a disability through Melbourne Legacy and Oz Child/Interchange and volunteering with Essendon VFLW and AFLW teams.
“I am excited about immersing myself in the beautiful community of Monbulk, continuing to nurture the wellbeing of our students, and working with staff to learn and improve continually, especially in the area of explicit instruction,” Mr Frederiksen said.
“I am exceptionally grateful for the opportunity to be the principal of St. Paul’s Monbulk and look forward to the years ahead.”
Michael Shone – Neerim District Secondary College, Neerim South
Michael Shone is a passionate educator with a strong moral compass.
He brings a wealth of experience to the role having performed highly in many leadership roles including in large government schools and overseeing non-government youth programs.
Mr Shone’s vision for the school is as a central pillar of the Neerim South community, educating its young people and participating actively in the district’s community initiative and events.
Ashleigh Buckland – Girgarre Primary School, Girgarre
With a background in public health research and evaluation, Ashleigh Buckland worked for ten years in regional and national roles in the not-for-profit sector before moving into education.
She has spent her teaching career working in small, rural schools and is focused on ensuring that the students at Girgarre Primary School have access to the same opportunities and educational experiences as those living in regional and metropolitan areas.
As part-time principal at Girgarre Primary School in 2023, Ms Buckland was integral in developing the school’s current strategic plan and is excited to be able to lead its implementation in 2024 and beyond.
Having already introduced Auslan into the school’s language program, as well as weekly cooking sessions, Ms Buckland and the team are now focused on continuing to embed evidence-based literacy and numeracy practices across the school to improve student learning outcomes.
Robert Ridgway – Cheltenham East Primary School, Cheltenham
Robert Ridgway began his career in education in 2004 at Dingley Primary School, where he quickly demonstrated his passion for teaching and dedication to student success.
Over the years, he honed his skills and expertise, eventually transitioning into, and embracing the challenge of, school leadership.
In 2018, Mr Ridgway joined Cheltenham Primary School as the assistant principal, where he played a crucial role in shaping the school’s vision and direction.
During his time there, he continued to develop his leadership capacity and develop a strong connection with the school community.
Now, as the new principal of Cheltenham East Primary School, Mr Ridgway is thrilled to continue his leadership journey in such a supportive and dynamic environment, where he looks forward to making a positive impact on the lives of students, staff, and families alike.
Mr Ridgway is dedicated to fostering a learning environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Aaron Sykes – Keysborough College, Keysborough
Aaron Sykes, with over two decades in education, has been appointed the principal of Keysborough College, marked by a career that spans from teaching in Japan to educational leadership in Victoria.
His work has been recognised with awards including the Lindsay Thompson Award for excellence in education and the VCAA VCAL (VCE- Vocational Major) Achievement Award, underscoring his commitment to excellence.
Mr Syke’s prior tenure as principal saw his school featured in The Age ‘Schools That Excel’ awards, reflecting his collaborative approach to education.
Working alongside staff and school council, he is eager to foster a supportive and ambitious environment at Keysborough College, prioritising academic achievement and wellbeing, anchored by the core values of respect, excellence, and diversity.
His vision for the college is a community where every student is empowered to excel and embrace a diverse and inclusive future.
Cameron Edwards – Wallington Primary School, Wallington
Working as a teacher at several schools in Melbourne and the UK, Mr Edwards gained experience in curriculum leadership as well as wellbeing and inclusive education practices before becoming an assistant principal in a small rural school in Wiltshire, UK.
More recently Mr Edwards worked as the assistant principal at Seabrook Primary School in Western Melbourne’s Hobsons Bay, and is proud to be the new principal at Wallington Primary School.
Looking forward, Mr Edwards feels extremely fortunate to be awarded the opportunity to lead a dedicated and united school community where staff, students and families work together to make every day special.
Making the most of the incredible school grounds and natural environment on the Bellarine Peninsula, Mr Edwards is excited to carry on with a rich history of collaborative events, like the infamous Strawberry Fair, while providing enriching learning experiences, where families and the broader local community all contribute to raising respectful, responsible, and resilient lifelong learners.
Joanna Uzunovski – Albion North Primary School, Sunshine North
With a diverse background in education, Joanna Uzunovski brings enthusiasm to the role of principal at Albion North Primary School, holding masters degrees in instructional leadership and education.
Having served as a dedicated educator for over a decade, Ms Uzunovski looks forward to collaborating with the staff, students and wider community to foster a culture of inclusivity, empower all students to reach their full potential, and continue to build the school’s academic excellence and nurturing learning environment.
Jemma McVeigh – St Peter’s Catholic Primary School, Keilor East
Jemma McVeigh’s journey to St Peter’s comes with extensive experience in education and leadership in primary schools in the northern region of Melbourne.
Cultivating an inclusive, collaborative and interdependent culture has brought many experiences working alongside staff, families, parishioners and the wider community.
She has completed a Masters of Education specialising in student and staff wellbeing and the Pathway to Principalship course with Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS).
“Building authentic and respectful relationships with all members of the school community is at the heart of all that I do,” Ms McVeigh said.
“As a leader and educator, I am passionate about providing young children with time and opportunities to grow in mind, body and spirit.
“Each day my heart feels so full as I spend quality time with the students, staff and families.”
Nerida Burns – Glen Huntly Primary School, Carnegie
Nerida Burns joins Glen Huntly Primary as an experienced school leader with a passion for excellence in education.
During her previous tenure as assistant principal at Richmond Primary School, she left a memorable mark on not just the school, but the whole community.
She believes that a school should be an inclusive community united by the common purpose of providing outstanding opportunities for children to learn, grow and develop, and ultimately realise their full potential.
With an approach to leadership that places students at the core, Ms Burns fosters a culture of continuous improvement in teaching and learning.
She sees each day as an opportunity to have a positive impact, always striving to leave the school community better than before.
Other new principals across Victoria
Richard Lisle – Eltham College
Jen Bourk – Ballarat Clarendon College
Jane Wiebusch – Tarrington Lutheran School
Alison Dean – St John’s School
Angela Ferro – Corpus Christi School
Stefanie Harvey – St Martin de Porres School
Lisa Haughey – St Thomas Aquinas School
Troy Rickard – St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School
Robert Anastasio – Simonds Catholic College
Angela Romano – Marian College
Amanda White – Belmore School
Suzanne Trease – Corryong College
Luke Kleinig – Dookie Primary School
Olivia Richards – Balwyn Primary School
Meridith Graunke – Bayswater North Primary School
Larissa Vesdrevanis – Donvale Primary School
Samuel Silverwood – Eastern Ranges School
Tanya Burton – Fairhills Primary School
Madeline Tippens – Glen Iris Primary School
Owen Holleran – Harston Primary School
Evan Miller – Highvale Secondary College
Matthew O’Hern – Kew East Primary School
Rebecca Brown – Mooroopna North Primary School
Justine Mackey – Mount View Primary School
Cassandra Walters – Rutherglen High School
Christopher Knight – Wellington Secondary College
Lisa Wilson – Zeerust Primary School
Adam Potter – Essendon Keilor College
Craig Jennings – St Albans Secondary College
Aylin Gokmen – Kurunjang Secondary College
Joanne Kindred – Portland Secondary College
Jade Seddon – Derrimut Primary School
Olivia Atanovska – Ascot Vale West Primary School
Tom Goddard – Kurunjang Primary School
Elizabeth Richardson – Toolern Vale Primary School
Louis Franc – Amphitheatre Primary School
Richard Wallis – Maroona Primary School
Soraya Hepburn – Natte Yallock Primary School
Christopher Pugh – Bellbridge Primary School
Kylie Smith – Goroke P-12 College
Megan Murfitt – Forrest Primary School
Graham Brodbent – Woodmans Hill Secondary College
Murrary Hart – Stawell Secondary College
Carmela Nigro – Athol Road Primary School
David Tapp – Beaumaris Primary School
Nicholas Woodward – Cann River P-12 College
Robert Ridgway – Cheltenham East Primary School
Chanae Johns – Cowwarr Primary School
Brianna Simpson – Glengarry Primary School
Ben Soumalis – Inverloch Primary School
Bronwyn Joyce – Lindenow South Primary School
David Casas – Montague Continuing Education Centre
Andrew Wisken – Moorooduc Primary School
Matthew Scammell – Mornington Primary School
Narrelle Bloomfield – Morwell Central Primary School
Karen Walker – Mount Martha Primary School
Rebecca Williams – Neerim South Primary School
Jeff Wilson – Omeo Primary School
Jordan Warren – Rosewood Downs Primary School
Todd Woodfine – Boort District P-12 School
David Jovanovski – Doreen Primary School
Andrew Judd – Echuca Primary School
Adam Smith – Edgars Creek Secondary College
Michael Rathborne – Epping Secondary College
Matthew Forrest – Gisborne Primary School
John Wardell – Kerang Primary School
Tim Furphy – Newham Primary School
Trevor Strolla – Richmond West Primary School
Matthew Koutroubas – Rochester Secondary College
Dianne Clare – Roxburgh Rise Primary School
Lars Andersson – Thornbury High School
Sarah Pollnitz – Watsonia North Primary School
Kaylene Kubeil – Whittlesea Primary School
Jonathan Stone – Yarra Me School
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