Damian McKew is the foundation principal of Iona College College.
This will be Damian’s third Principalship, after four and a half years as head at Trinity College Colac and the past nine years at Clonard College Geelong and more than 25 years in positions of leadership in Catholic colleges across Victoria.
Damian originally hails from a wheat and sheep farm in the Wimmera (St Arnaud) where his parents soon realised he would make a poor farmer and encouraged him to pursue tertiary studies in Commerce and Education. He has gained two Masters degrees, one in Educational Leadership and the other, an Executive Masters of Business Administration. But most importantly he loves his job.
Damian spent the 2019 school year overseeing the building, recruiting students/staff and of course developing the educational program. This important work continues with the current establishment of Year 7 , 8, 9 and 10 (2023).
The Iona College build continues to evolve. Construction of the three storey multi disciplinary learning spaces was completed for the commencement of the 2020 school year. This building is capable of holding 600 students and has facilities where each part of the College learning program takes place.
An AFL accredited oval (and associated facilities) was completed at the end of 2020 and students are currently enjoying this space for physical education classes, sport and inter-school sport and recreational opportunities at break times. At the start of 2022, the College took possession of our Specialist Facilities that include contemporary spaces for- The Arts, Technology (Wood, Plastics and Metal) Information Technology, STEM, Science, Media and Performing Arts. Additionally, the College Stadium, Food Technology and Music Centre has now been opened for student use.
In March 2022, works commenced on the Student Services, Library, Canteen and Administration building. These works were completed in readiness for the 2023 school year. At the end of 2022, we will have spent over $50 million dollars in the establishment of facilities at Iona College.
These developments will give our student brand new state of the art facilities that will enhance their learning opportunities. The total build cost of Iona College is expected to be in the vicinity of $65 million dollars which is an investment in the current and future generations of young people who enrol at the College.
Damian McKew – Foundation Principal
“It is a delight to work with and make a difference to the lives of our young people.
We are developing an amazing culture at Iona that is being supported by our teaching and support staff, who are ensuring that student learning and well-being are our core purpose. The establishment of Iona College is a chance not to be constrained by some of the educational barriers that exist in other schools, rather, we forge a unique identity and ensure that our student’s capabilities are maximised academically, socially, physically and spiritually.
I am married to Annalee a secondary school teacher at St Joseph’s College and we have two children; Sam who graduated from St Joseph’s College in 2021 and Gracie (Year 11) at Clonard College. I have many interests particularly sport and am known to be a passionate Hawthorn supporter.