The key functions of the St Columba's School Advisory Council are to provide advice on education matters relating to whole of parish including the school. The purposes of the School Advisory Council are to:
School Advisory Council
- act as an advisory body to the parish priest and principal, on matters concerning education in the parish
- act as a forum for discussion on matters concerning education in the parish primary school
- provide a link between the parish priest, principal, teachers and parishioners in relation to the provision of Catholic education in the parish community
- promote community development by fostering a strong interrelationship between parish and the parish primary school, Catholic secondary colleges and pre-schools
Responsibilities include:
- promote the Catholic ethos of the school and to support the Religious Education programs
- provide advice on the development and review of school policies
- plan for the future of the parish primary school and its ability to accommodate future enrolments
- provide advice on budget planning and finance-related matters
- contribute to the selection process for the school principal
- ensure the appropriate provision of faith development and RE programs for children attending Government schools
- foster adult education in faith
School Advisory Council Members 2023
Father John Petrulis
As Parish Priest serving the communities of Sacred Heart St Kilda and St Columba Elwood for the last ten years. Our school community is a special focus of my ministry. I strive to work collaboratively with our Parish Team to support our principal, staff, children and their families. Fostering a living relationship to our wider Parish community which includes the wonderful ongoing education of service to those in most need with our Sacred Heart Mission is also another call of my heart with you.
Daniella Maddalena
Daniella became the principal of St Columba's at the beginning of 2015. She was previously the vice principal of St Joan of Arc.
Bern Bradley
Bern is the Deputy Principal of St Columba's and leads the St Columba's Student Wellbeing Services.
Imogen Lewis
Imogen has three children at St Columba’s, and joined the SAC to help support the continued growth and success of the school. Imogen works in property development, and has more than 20 years’ property experience in both the public and private sectors. Her expertise is in the delivery of precinctual-scale urban renewal projects, and she is passionate about delivering high quality and sustainable project outcomes that will ultimately have a long-term positive transformative effect on the city.
Simon Lewin
Simon Lewin has re -joined the board after a two year hiatus. His daughters Maya and Olivia Lewin attend St Columba’s and his son Josh is a former student. Simon brings his property and construction expertise to the board, having worked with builders and developers for over 20 years in leadership and management positions. Managing consultants and procuring sub-contractors is another critical aspect in Simon’s current role that can be beneficial to the operations of St Columba’s. With the implementation of the master plan a key component of the school operations in the coming years Simon will be assisting in this area.
Seamus Power
Seamus' son Botao is a student at St Columba's. He is an experienced business leader having led a number of companies as CEO and Managing Director. Seamus has a Masters in Business Administration, is a qualified Engineer and is passionate about Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education and its importance to Australia's future prosperity. He is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is looking forward to contributing with the board, teaching staff and parish community to continue the positive path that St Columba's is on.
Nick Mitchell
Nick is the Managing Director of an asset management company, leading the business in its sales and marketing with his goal being to help everyday Australians meet their financial goals. Nick has 23 years industry experience across asset management, financial technology and advice. He also maintains a strong connection to theatrical arts both personally and professionally. With two daughters at St Columba's Bette and Rosie Nick remains committed to the ongoing success and growth of the little school with a big heart.
Michelle Murphy
Michelle Murphy has two children at St Columba’s, and is passionate about the school continuing to grow and thrive. Michelle works in Visitor Economy and is an experienced senior project and people manager who is strategic and creatively driven with a demonstrated history of working in both private and local government sectors. Michelle hopes that her diverse work background will assist the school in achieving its goals for the future.
2023 Meeting Dates
| February | Tuesday 21 |
| March | Tuesday 14 |
| May | Tuesday 9 |
| June | Tuesday 6 |
| July | Tuesday 18 |
| August | Tuesday 22 |
| October | Tuesday 24 |
| November | Tuesday 14 (AGM) |
If you would like to learn more or are interested in joining the School Advisory Council, please contact Daniella Maddalena.
