Michael O'Keeffe

Mr O'Keeffe joins Notre Dame College from John Paul College, Frankston, where he served as Deputy Principal of Learning and Innovation.

Under his leadership, John Paul College was recognised as a Spotlight School by Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools — an acknowledgement of his work developing a whole-school Vision for Instruction that strengthened teaching practice and lifted student outcomes across the college.

His experience aligns closely with Magnify Sandhurst, the instructional program already embedded at Notre Dame College.

Prior to John Paul College, Mr O'Keeffe served as Director of College and Community Engagement at Loyola College, Watsonia, where he led significant enrolment growth and guided the college through substantial organisational change.

Catholic Education Sandhurst Executive Director Ms Kate Fogarty described Mr O'Keeffe as a leader who builds trust through genuine relationships.

"Michael is a respected and well-known Catholic educational leader in Victoria, with a deep commitment to Catholic identity, educational excellence and the flourishing of every young person and staff member in his care. I know the Notre Dame community will join me in welcoming him warmly."

Mr O'Keeffe said he was drawn to Notre Dame College's proud Marist and Mercy heritage and its invitation to seek, see and respond.

"Notre Dame College embodies the kind of Catholic community I have dedicated my career to serving. I am genuinely excited to be joining this community, and I look forward to working alongside the staff and families already there to build on the strong foundations in place."

Beyond his school leadership, Mr O'Keeffe has served as a Relationship Facilitator with Catholic Care Victoria for more than fifteen years, sits on his Parish Pastoral Council, and volunteers with a companion van supporting vulnerable people in Frankston.

"Catholic education is a vocation for me," he said. "Faith lived through action shapes the kind of leader I strive to be, and I look forward to bringing that spirit to Notre Dame."

We look forward to Michael joining our College community in January 2027.