Welcoming our new College Principal

The Saint Kentigern Trust Board is very pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Damon Emtage as the new Principal of the College. 

Mr Emtage brings an impressive record of educational leadership, deep understanding of faith-based independent education and a commitment to both the values of Saint Kentigern and to leading the College with humility, care, and collaboration. 

A New Zealander, originally from Auckland, Mr Emtage taught at Auckland Grammar School before embarking on a 22-year career in several leading independent schools in Australia, including Brisbane Grammar School and Wesley College Melbourne. He is currently Deputy Headmaster at Brisbane Boys’ College, a Presbyterian and Methodist School, where he was also Acting Headmaster during a transition period in 2021. Throughout his career Mr Emtage has led numerous innovative student and staff initiatives in a variety of contexts. Between 2005 and 2009 Mr Emtage took a break from education and was assistant coach for a high-performance sports team.

On accepting this appointment to Saint Kentigern, Mr Emtage said, “it is a privilege to follow in the footsteps of past leaders and to build upon the College’s proud almost 70-year history – a strong independent school that values a holistic education, the pursuit of excellence, service and innovation, guided by a commitment to Christian faith”.

Mr Emtage’s family are also looking forward to being part of the Saint Kentigern community. His wife, Kathryn, has considerable experience within the independent school sector in Australia, and their children, Jonty and Holly, will be joining us as students at the College.

The Trust Board is very grateful to Mr Duncan McQueen who will continue as Acting Principal until Mr Emtage begins his transition into his new role. Mr McQueen has provided valued stability and confidence to our community in the way he has filled this role. As a Trust Board we thank for him the leadership and commitment he has brought to the College community.

Mr Emtage will start at the College in November for a period of transition before formally commencing the Principal’s role in January 2023.

I am sure you will join us in warmly welcoming Mr Emtage and his family into the College family and our wider Saint Kentigern community.

Fides Servanda Est 

Mark Conelly 

Trust Board Chair