Following a comprehensive national recruitment process, Matthew Flinders Anglican College has appointed Mr Jason Locke as the new Head of Primary, commencing in January 2026.
Mr Locke brings 30 years of educational experience across Prep–12 schools, regional systems and tertiary education, and served as the Head of Primary at Toowoomba Anglican School over the past nine years.
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.
Principal Michelle Carroll said Mr Locke would contribute great expertise and insights to Flinders and lead the Primary School with purpose, vision and a strong commitment to academic excellence, pedagogical innovation, student wellbeing, professional growth of staff and meaningful engagement with the wider College community.
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.
Ms Carroll said, “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.
“His approach balances our College’s academic excellence with genuine care for student wellbeing and staff development,” Ms Carroll said. “Throughout his career, Jason 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.
“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. Her leadership has inspired strong enrolment growth, deepened community connection and enhanced our standing as one of Queensland’s leading independent schools.”
During Term 4 this year, Mr Locke will spend time on the Flinders campus alongside Mrs Edwards and the Primary Leadership team. He will also connect with the Primary School’s dedicated staff while listening to the students to gain their insights and experiences.
Mr 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.
Mr Locke's qualifications include a Master of Education (Leadership and Early Childhood Literature), and a Bachelor of Education. Jason maintains professional connections through his membership of the Australian College of Educators, Australian Council for Educational Leaders and the Independent Primary School Heads Association.
