Fairholme College reveals Brisbane Boys College deputy headmaster Dr Leigh Hobart as new principal in 2025

One of Toowoomba’s top private schools has announced its new principal for 2025, snagging an experienced educator from one of Brisbane’s most prestigious colleges.

One of Toowoomba’s most prestigious private schools has announced its first new principal in more than 15 years.

Dr Leigh Hobart will take the reins of Fairholme College from next year, replacing stalwart Dr Linda Evans from term two 2025.

The former Toowoomba resident with more than 30 years of experience in education has been with Brisbane Boys College since 2017 and is currently its deputy headmaster for academic performance and innovation.

Prior to her roles at BBC, she worked in leadership roles at various public schools, including Ashgrove, Payne Road, Toowong and Wavell Heights.

After attaining a diploma in teaching at the University of Southern Queensland in 1990, she continued studies at QUT and attained a Doctor of Education in 2010.

Fairholme board chairman Ian Anderson said Dr Hobart was chosen for her track record in a variety of roles and her innovative approach to education.

“With a focus on developing an inclusive and collaborative culture, Dr Hobart has led various initiatives that have had a profound impact,” he wrote in a letter to the school community.

“From introducing a phonics-based reading and writing program in the early years to negotiating the implementation of the Queensland senior school curriculum, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence and innovation.

“Her professional journey has been driven by a deep passion for leading learning communities where students and staff can flourish.

“She firmly believes in the transformative power of education and its role as fundamental to a high-functioning and progressive society.”

Mr Anderson also paid tribute to Dr Evans, who will assist in the transition period over the next eight months.

“Her humility, professionalism and capacity to inspire students and staff will live on well into the future,” he wrote.

“Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to Fairholme College.

“We are confident that under Dr Hobart’s leadership, our school will continue to thrive and provide an exceptional educational experience for all our students.”

Fairholme College is consistently one of Toowoomba’s best-performing schools academically, having topped the NAPLAN results last year among secondary colleges.

Two of its students also achieved some of the highest ATAR results in Queensland in 2023.