Message from Kate Rayment, Chair of the College Board

25 June 2026

On behalf of the St Vincent’s College Board, it is my pleasure to announce that Mrs. Johneen McPherson has been appointed as the 27th Principal of St Vincent’s College, commencing in January 2027.

With the support of ANZUK, a rigorous and far-reaching recruitment process was conducted. The significant interest expressed from high-calibre candidates across Australia and internationally is testament to the very strong reputation of St. Vincent’s College.

Mrs. McPherson is a highly accomplished and faith-filled educational leader with extensive experience teaching in and leading Catholic independent girls’ schools in Australia and the UK. Most recently, she served as Headmistress of St Catherine’s School Twickenham, London, where she led whole school improvement across teaching and learning, pastoral care, staff culture and strategic development.

Across her career, including senior roles at St Mary’s Ascot and Wycombe Abbey, Mrs. McPherson has demonstrated a deep commitment to academic rigour, evidence informed practice, and the development of programs that support the growth of every student. She has led significant advances in student tracking, assessment and personalised pathways, alongside strengthening provision for both high-performing students and those requiring additional support. Central to Mrs. McPherson’s leadership is her authentic and active Catholic faith. She brings a deep understanding of the formation of young women in contemporary contexts, grounded in dignity, respect, service and social justice.

Mrs. McPherson is also recognised for her relational and strategic leadership. She has built high-performing teams, fostered professional growth in staff, and strengthened community engagement through meaningful partnerships with families, alumnae and the wider Church. Her leadership reflects both courage in decision-making and a collaborative, reflective approach that draws others on the journey with her.

Importantly, she brings a clear understanding of contemporary challenges and opportunities facing girls’ education, including wellbeing, digital change, and the importance of student voice. Her leadership has consistently prioritised environments where young women feel known, valued and empowered to thrive.

Mrs. McPherson was drawn to St Vincent’s College by its strong sense of community, its commitment to excellence, and its enduring mission to form courageous women of action. She is deeply aligned with the values of Generosity of Spirit, Hope, Justice, Respect and Service of the Poor, and is excited to lead the College into its next chapter.

As we look ahead, we do so with great confidence in Mrs. McPherson’s capacity to honour the College’s rich history while leading with vision, faith and integrity into the future. She is looking forward very much to joining and leading this community. She said,

“It has been a pleasure to learn more about the great culture and successes of St Vincent's College, and I am delighted and honoured to be the next Principal. I look forward to meeting students, staff and parents over the coming months, and to leading the College in its next exciting chapter.”

Mrs. McPherson (Johneen) and her husband (Stuart) recently returned to Australia from the UK. They have four adult children living in the UK.

Further details regarding transition arrangements will be shared with the College community in due course.

We warmly welcome Mrs. McPherson to St Vincent’s College and look forward to the leadership she will bring to our community.

Kate Rayment
Chair, SVCL Board