Headmaster to conclude tenure at end 2019

The Chairman of Melbourne Grammar School Council, Mr Michael Bartlett, today informed the School community that after ten years of outstanding service, the Headmaster, Roy Kelley, has advised of his intention to conclude his tenure at the end of 2019 and retire from positions of school leadership.

“Roy Kelley has been an excellent Headmaster and we have been privileged to have him lead the School through a period of unprecedented technological change,” said Mr Bartlett.

“Roy will continue to lead the School for the full 2019 calendar year. The School Council has commenced a national and international executive search to appoint his successor, who will commence in 2020. We have engaged executive search firm, Heidrick and Struggles, to support the process.”

Mr Bartlett paid tribute to Mr Kelley’s decade of achievement.

“While there will be many opportunities in 2019 for the School community to thank Roy for his enormous commitment and service, it is appropriate at this time for me to highlight the magnitude of his contribution. 

“When Roy leaves the School at the end of next year, his legacy will be justly recognised as profound, impacting on every area of Melbourne Grammar's educational programme. His vision, expertise and leadership abilities have brought about significant, positive and harmonious change, benefitting every student and staff member, as well as the wider Melbourne Grammar community,” Mr Bartlett said.

Among Mr Kelley’s many notable achievements, Mr Bartlett highlighted the renewal of the School's Strategic Plan, its Mission, Vision and Values, and a significant review of its curriculum and co-curricular offerings. 

“Roy successfully argued for 'a sense of community' to be placed at the centre of Melbourne Grammar's Values. He has promoted excellence and a love of learning, and prioritised the development of qualities such as empathy, respect, resilience and collaboration, believing these to be the cornerstones of personal growth, wellbeing and community, and never more important than in today's 21st century world,” Mr Bartlett said.

“Roy oversaw the design and establishment of our world-class Geoff Handbury Science & Technology Hub and instigated Melbourne Grammar’s unique Beyond the Gates outdoor experience.”

Roy Kelley joined Melbourne Grammar School as Headmaster in April 2009. Prior to this he was Headmaster of King’s College in Auckland, New Zealand (2003–2009), and Deputy Headmaster at Hale School in Perth, Western Australia (1995–2002). He joined Hale School in 1979 and held various positions there, including Director of Pastoral Care and Professional Development. He also taught at Sherborne School, Dorset, United Kingdom (1990–1991).

He has made a highly significant contribution to the education sector in Australia and for seventeen years has been actively involved in the Association of Heads of Independent Schools Australia.

Mr Bartlett said; “The School Council is deeply grateful that Mr Kelley has been so generous and flexible in planning his departure, so as to leave ample time for us to effect a smooth transition.”