One of Queensland’s leading co-educational schools has appointed a new Head of Primary following a “comprehensive national recruitment process”.
Jason Locke, who brings 30 years of educational experience across Prep–12 schools, regional systems and tertiary education – including having served as the Head of Primary at Toowoomba Anglican School over the past nine years – will take up his new role at Matthew Flinders Anglican College from January 2026.
Flinders is the leading co-educational school on the Sunshine Coast and was named Primary School of the Year (Non-Government) in 2023 at the Australian Education Awards.
In a statement published on Wednesday, the school said Locke’s leadership has spanned curriculum initiatives, pedagogical reviews and school improvement programs, and is “anchored by a deep passion for early literacy as essential to a child’s educational journey.”
His expertise was honed during his time as Head of Teaching and Learning at Toowoomba Grammar School (2011-2016), where he championed innovative approaches to boys’ education, and earlier as Regional Educational Manager (2006-2010), where he guided literacy programs across 126 schools throughout the region.
Principal Michelle Carroll said the Flinders Head of Primary cultivates a culture of collaboration, inclusion and high achievement.
Through strategic leadership and exemplary practice, the role supports students to grow as individuals of character—equipped to realise their full potential and contribute positively to an ever-changing global context.
“Those who know Jason describe him as someone who leads with both warmth and purpose—fostering collaborative teams while maintaining an unwavering focus on helping every child reach their potential,” Carroll said.
“His approach balances our College’s academic excellence with genuine care for student wellbeing and staff development.”
Carroll said Locke has consistently created inclusive school cultures where faith and learning flourish together.
“We look forward to working with him as he brings a fresh perspective, wealth of experience and inspiring vision to our Primary School,” she said.
“Mr Locke’s appointment represents another wonderful chapter of educational leadership and follows on from the outstanding legacy of Mrs Trudi Edwards who has led our Primary School with vision, conviction and genuine care since 2018.”