World Principals' Day
Friday 7 August
This Friday 7 August is World Principals' Day, an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, leadership and care that school leaders bring to their communities every day.
As we continue finalising ongoing Assistant Principal positions for 2027, it is a timely reminder of the significant contribution our current Principal Team makes to Collingwood College. Their commitment to supporting students, staff and families, leading school improvement, responding to challenges and creating opportunities for our community often happens behind the scenes, but has a lasting impact on our school.
Sormeh Afkari returned to Collingwood College in 2025 as Assistant Principal of the Primary School. Her passion, care and unwavering commitment to our students, staff and families are at the heart of everything she does. Sormeh's leadership has strengthened our primary community and continues to make Collingwood College a place where every child feels known, valued and supported.
Lori Michael played a pivotal role in leading Collingwood College through the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) authorisation process, achieving our status as an IB World School. She has also successfully led the implementation of VTLM 2.0, strengthening teaching and learning practices across the college.
Rachel Wood has led the development of the Collingwood Learning Model and the implementation of the Berry Street Education Model across the college. Rachel brings a calm, thoughtful presence to every situation and is a tireless advocate for student wellbeing, ensuring every learner is supported to succeed.
Lucy Marshall has expertly led the Wurun Senior Campus through a significant period of change. She has remained steadfast in supporting students to achieve their personal best across the Collingwood College and Fitzroy High School partnership. Lucy is a passionate advocate for public education and has successfully led the implementation of the New Metrics program across the senior partnership while continuing to strengthen the Wurun community.
Melanie Singleton has led the Collingwood Alternative School (CAS) for the past three years. During this time, she has led a significant revitalisation of the CAS curriculum, ensuring it continues to meet the needs of our unique learners. CAS is in an exciting place, and Mel has been instrumental in leading the outstanding work of the team and creating meaningful pathways for students.
Chris Millard has provided exceptional leadership across every part of Collingwood College. From leading the opening of Wurun Senior Campus, stepping into the Acting Principal role during my maternity leave, and continuing as Co-Principal since my return, Chris has been a constant source of knowledge, stability and support. His deep understanding of our partnership, the complexities of Wurun Senior Campus, and his expertise in operations, compliance and school leadership are invaluable to our community.
Adam Cribbes, Principal of Fitzroy High School, has become a valued leader within our Wurun Senior Campus partnership. Adam has worked collaboratively alongside our team to support students, strengthen relationships and solve challenges with a shared commitment to providing the very best opportunities for every young person across our partnership.
I would also like to thank every member of our leadership team who contributes to making Collingwood College the extraordinary place it is. Leadership is never the work of one person - it is built on collaboration, trust and a shared commitment to our students and community.
Thank you to our Principal Team for your leadership, professionalism and unwavering commitment to ensuring Collingwood College continues to be a place where every student is known, valued and supported to thrive.
Happy World Principals' Day!
Angela Watters