Future Leadership is delighted to announce the appointment of Donna Kolka as Head of Middle School at John XXIII College.
Donna brings over 15 years of educational experience, including more than a decade in dedicated pastoral and middle leadership roles across some of Australia’s most respected schools. She is a passionate educator and strategic leader, deeply aligned with the Ignatian ethos and the College’s mission of forming young people of competence, conscience, and compassion,
Most recently, Donna has served as Head of House at Guildford Grammar School, where she led the holistic wellbeing and academic care of students across Years 7–12. She has played a key role in embedding research-informed frameworks such as Visible Wellbeing, and has championed student voice, restorative practices, and inclusive leadership. Her leadership has resulted in improved student engagement, a stronger sense of belonging, and enhanced reporting on student wellbeing indicators.
Donna’s previous roles include Head of House at Geelong Grammar School, where she was responsible for the 24/7 academic and wellbeing care of senior students, and Deputy Head of Boarding at Presbyterian Ladies’ College, leading transition programs and supporting both students and families through key formative stages. She has also held leadership positions at Methodist Ladies’ College, where she designed and implemented targeted student leadership and pastoral care programme.
Donna’s vision for the Middle Years is grounded in the holistic development of young adolescents, fostering environments where identity is nurtured, curiosity is celebrated, and student voice is heard. She is currently completing a Master of Educational Leadership and is a certified Agile Leadership graduate, bringing a solutions-focused and adaptive approach to her work.
We look forward to Donna’s contribution to the continued growth and success of John XXIII College as she leads the Middle School into its next chapter.
