Introducing Mr Bond

We are delighted to introduce our new College Principal, Mr Michael Bond.

With a wealth of experience and a passion for education, Mr Bond is set to lead our school into an exciting new chapter. We had the pleasure of quizzing Mr Bond to learn more about his vision for Oxley, his background, and what drives him. 

Mr Bond discussed what inspired him to pursue a career in education, his commitment to fostering Christian values and community, and what has impacted his leadership style.

“I have always enjoyed working with young people and supporting students to flourish ... I am passionate about schools being nurturing environments for students.”

Mr Bond joins Oxley with many years of experience in the Christian Education sector, having served as Principal at Kerang Christian College and both Deputy Principal and Principal at Northside Christian College.

Distinctly, Mr Bond treasures Christian values, and leads by example, reflecting those values. One thing he admires about Oxley is our commitment to truly integrating these values. They are part of the school's core, not merely tacked on.

Interview with Mr Michael Bond, Oxley’s New Principal

Can you share a bit about your background and on your experience prior to becoming the Principal of Oxley Christian College?

Most of my career has been dedicated to teaching and leading in Christian schools. Ultimately, I am enthusiastic about sharing my love of God with others and desire to support school communities to grow closer to God.

 

Prior to returning to Oxley, I was the Principal at Kerang Christian College and Deputy Principal and then Principal at Northside Christian College. These experiences supported me in growing as a leader and have provided me with wonderful opportunities to support the development of other Christian schools. I am passionate about the provision of a rigorous Christian education that supports all students to flourish.

What inspired you to become an educator?

I have always enjoyed working with young people and supporting students to flourish. I recall teachers who had a significant impact on my life and fondly remember the care and concern they showed me during my time at school.

 

I desire for each student to know the love of God and to feel valued and loved as part of a Christian school community. I am passionate about schools being nurturing environments for students, recognising that each student is a gift from God. Psalm 127:3 reminds us, 'Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him.'

How do you envision integrating Christian values into our programs at Oxley?

I pray our Christian values are woven through everything that we do at Oxley. As a team of Christian staff, we are blessed to be able to have the important role of bearing Christian witness to the College and wider community, by sharing and modelling our Christian faith through our words and actions each day. We have an opportunity to role model our core values – to show Christ’s love – on a daily basis. Our teaching and learning environment at Oxley aims to create a place where students can delight in discovering more about the world God created throughout the learning program in the Junior School and Senior School.

 

The Bible is our ‘road map’ for life and supports students to understand their purpose in life. At Oxley, it is so special to have Chapel and devotions, which are significant parts of our school culture. It is safe to say that our Christian values are not just an ‘add-on’ part of the program at Oxley, they form an essential aspect of our worldview that is woven into everything that we do.

What are some of your favourite memories from your own school days?

At school, I had a deep desire to learn and enjoyed the challenge of developing a deeper understanding across a diverse range of academic disciplines. I also appreciated the opportunity to participate in a wide range of House sports and activities with other students. Training with my friends and school coaches and then representing my school in interschool athletics and cross country carnivals were amongst some of my fondest school memories.

What do you enjoy most about working with students and staff?

I love being a part of a Christian community where we can encourage and support one another. Oxley is a very special place, and it is evident that God’s love is a significant part of Oxley Christian College and the other ministries on this property. The care and concern that our students and staff show to each other is something to be cherished.

What values and principles guide your leadership style?

Ultimately, I desire to be guided by the example of Jesus. I continue to pray for wisdom and aim to trust God and be guided by His word. I pray to God throughout the day and lean on Him in all circumstances. As a leader, I aim to serve the Oxley community with love, compassion and humility.

What is something about you that might surprise students and staff?

I qualified for two Olympic Trials in the 1500m.

Claire Welch

Marketing Coordinator