John Paul College has welcomed Mr Craig Merritt as its sixth principal, beginning in January 2023. With more than 30 years of teaching and learning experience in co-educational schools, Mr Merritt’s appointment follows an extensive national and international search for the right candidate for the role, assisted by specialist executive recruitment firm Lyngcoln Consulting.

With a clearly demonstrated commitment to academic excellence, Mr Merritt strongly advocates inclusive and diverse leadership within a modern multifaith context. He has a proven track record of building a strong sense of community and is a warm, people-focused leader.

He is committed to empowering young people to develop a strong sense of positive character, to be optimistic, to excel, and ultimately to be an instrument of positive influence in their communities.

Before joining John Paul College, Mr Merritt was the Principal of St Luke’s Anglican School in Bundaberg, where he led talented educators in an Early Learning Centre for Year 12 co-educational day school of over 1000 students. Under Mr Merritt's leadership, St Luke's has become one of Queensland's leading regional schools, with an impressive record of NAPLAN and ATAR performance.

Mr Merritt holds a Master of Education (Leadership and Management), Diploma of Education, Bachelor of Arts (History and Economics) and is currently undertaking a Graduate Certificate of Theology.

As a knowledgeable and engaging leader, Mr Merritt has a strong foundation of experience to build on. This, paired with his values, vision and passion, the John Paul College Board has every confidence in Mr Merritt’s ability to build on the legacy of the College’s former principal, Mrs Karen Spiller, and continue to enhance the College's reputation as a national leader in education, providing a breadth and depth of academic and co-curricular opportunities with our students. 

The John Paul College community welcomed Mr Merritt, along with his wife Tamara, and their two children, Chloe and Ashton, as new members of the College community. We look forward to working together with Mr Merritt to achieve the College's mission and goals.

Mr Merritt expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead the College, saying, "I am honoured and elated to start my journey as the sixth Principal of John Paul College. I look forward to building a strong relationship with all families throughout the year."