David will replace Mr Bradley Fenner, who will retire at the end of Term 2 after an outstanding eight years with the school.
David is currently Deputy Headmaster and Head of Stanmore Campus at Newington College, one of Sydney’s pre-eminent boys’ schools. He has an impressive record in academic, pastoral, boarding and co-curricular leadership at leading independent schools, including St Leonard’s College, Geelong Grammar School (Timbertop Campus and Cuthbertson House), and Caulfield Grammar School.
During his six-year tenure at Newington, David has delivered significant improvements in academic performance, pastoral care programs, the boarding experience, policy and risk management, and staff engagement and wellbeing. He has also worked closely with the Headmaster on infrastructure and strategic planning, and periodically undertaken the role of Acting Headmaster.
David impressed the College Council with his affinity for PAC’s Purpose and Beliefs, as well as his alignment with the key objectives within our Strategic Plan. His experience in, and commitment to, educating boys, while acknowledging the work and legacy of those before him, instilled in the Council great confidence of a shared vision for the future of the College.
The College Council also appreciated David’s strong belief and understanding that a diverse education, encompassing academic, pastoral, co-curricular and outdoor education programs, is paramount to encouraging and supporting students to achieve their best, and provides the foundation for life-long learning.
David said he was “deeply honoured” to be joining the PAC community as the next Headmaster.
“Walking into the College, there’s an immediate sense of pride and purpose. That’s a wonderful bedrock for anyone, and even more for a soon-to-be Headmaster of one of Adelaide’s great schools. I’m looking forward to meeting more of the students, their families and my new colleagues, and excited to explore what we can achieve in the years ahead.”
David and his wife Sofie have two children, Charlie and Saskia, and we look forward to welcoming them all to the Prince Alfred College community next year.