On Tuesday, October 29, St Augustine’s College officially informed parents and staff via letter that principal Jay Sutton will be departing at year’s end to reunite with his family in Western Australia.
Mr Sutton's contract was for seven years and, although he only started at the college in 2022, he emphasised that the decision to leave was carefully considered.
“It’s been eight years since we moved away… when we rang (his parents) and told them (they were moving back) my mum just burst into tears,” he said.
Mr Sutton will assume the role of principal at Mother Theresa Catholic College in Perth, overseeing 1800 students from prep to Year 12, with a long-term 12-year contract.
Mr Sutton said it was a dream scenario for him because he will be able to see the preparatory students in 2025 graduate in 12 years.
He said it will be difficult to let go of the incredible staff and student culture at St Augustine’s, but it was the best decision for him and his family.
“I am sad though because I love St Augustine’s, I love the staff, I love the students and the parents have been great… but I’m excited because I’m going back to my family,” Mr Sutton said.
“I’m excited for the new principal.”
In a letter to parents, Kate Fogarty, executive director at Catholic Education Sandhurst Limited announced the appointment of the new St Augustine’s College principal, Tim Campbell.
Mr Campbell brings extensive local experience, having served as deputy principal at St Augustine's since term three of 2022, following roles as a college leader at St Joseph's College in Echuca and deputy principal at St Mary of the Angels in Nathalia.
In the letter, Ms Fogarty asked parents of students to join her in congratulating Mr Campbell on his appointment.
“Tim has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to the college’s mission of fostering a Christian-centred education that supports the holistic development of every student,” Ms Fogarty said in the letter.
Mr Sutton said he believes he is leaving the school in good hands.
“It’s all becoming a bit more real now because now that Tim has been announced, I officially don’t have a job… there’s no turning back now,” Mr Sutton said.
“I have confidence that he will do an amazing job.”
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