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Colin Simpson Outstanding Secondary Principal Award Finalists

Colin Simpson Outstanding Secondary Principal Award Finalists for the Victorian Education Excellence Awards program.

Dr Brett Moore, Ashwood High School

Principal Brett Moore has not only shaped and led powerful school-level improvement at Ashwood High School but is also a genuine system leader who sees the bigger picture of educational improvement at scale.

Since coming to the school in 2015, Brett’s value-driven leadership has steered Ashwood High School to become a school of ‘influence’ in student achievement, based on both NAPLAN and VCE results.

Brett’s leadership of evidence-based improvement in teaching and learning is reflected in the school’s exceptional student outcomes data, with significant improvements in enrolments, engagement, achievement, and wellbeing. In 2023, Ashwood High School was ranked the number 1 local-entry high school in Victoria for university pathways.

Brett’s commitment to learning, research and inquiry in educational leadership is exemplified by his work with Monash University. In strengthening the capacity of schools, leaders, and teachers to access and apply research and evidence-based processes, he is building more productive, collaborative, and successful school communities.

Patrick Mulcahy, Carwatha College P-12

Principal Patrick Mulcahy has established a culture of professionalism at Carwatha College through his leadership of collaborative whole-school improvement that has student wellbeing and cultural inclusion at its heart.

Patrick’s prioritisation of student wellbeing in the restructure of the College has improved attendance data and enrolment, funded additional support staff, and increased funding for students with disabilities.

Initiatives such as the 'Carwatha Mob' and the International Students Program are testament to his dedication to fostering inclusion and academic excellence, resulting in greater cultural understanding within the school community. Forging meaningful partnerships with community stakeholders, Patrick has generated new opportunities for students’ growth and development, both inside and outside the classroom.

Patrick’s strategic vision and commitment to collaborative professional development has empowered staff to excel, resulting in remarkable growth in student achievement as evidenced by increases in the school’s Victorian Certificate of Education median study scores and NAPLAN performance, surpassing both state and network averages.

Lisa Holt, Rosebud Secondary College

The leadership of principal Lisa Holt has transformed the school that is now Rosebud Secondary College.

Demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities, Lisa’s commitment to fostering positive change within the educational system is delivering an inclusive education for all students and their families.

Lisa's principled, student-centred focus has shaped the college as a place where highly inclusive practices are flexibly meeting each students’ needs. Dedicated to providing well-supported learning for young people, her leadership has substantially increased access to the opportunities and resources students need to fully embrace, and succeed, in their education.

Fostering many partnerships between the school and community, her leadership has greatly enhanced academic outcomes and wellbeing at the college. Determined that the young people of the Southern Peninsula will learn in a modern environment that reflects their future learning and work environments, Lisa has also overseen a significant investment in the college’s facilities, and in the future of her community.

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