Principal's Welcome

A welcome from Principal, Simon Shepherd

Westminster is a leading coeducational school for day and boarding students, offering an exceptional education from Early Learning to Year 12. Supported by an active global community, we incorporate our values of being kind, inclusive, courageous, mindful and curious into everyday school life, along with the ethos of the Uniting Church and international ideals of Round Square. 

We believe that a complete education develops both cognitive and emotional intelligence. Similarly, we believe that self-awareness and wellbeing complement academic success. Our focus is on developing each student’s skills and attributes, using creative and critical thinking to help them thrive in an increasingly complex world. We want our students to be adventurous beyond the curriculum, and inspired to achieve more than they thought possible. 

Our highly qualified and well-respected teaching staff are dedicated to the growth of every student. Students excel because they feel valued and safe, encouraged to take an appropriate level of risk and challenge themselves to move forward should they fail. As educators, we guide and facilitate learning journeys that are shaped by teamwork, inquiry and innovation. 

Since 1961, our School has built a wonderful tradition of academic, sporting, artistic and creative achievements. We have extensive academic and co-curricular programs, impressive grounds, state-of-the-art infrastructure and outstanding facilities. However, to be at the forefront of education in an ever-changing world, we can never stand still. Our staff are committed to their professional growth and collaboration is at the heart of our community. We remain committed to continually improving our educational practice, environment and the technology essential to contemporary learning.  

We are always ready to show our School to prospective families but also believe that a true measure of success is to see where our students will be in several years’ time. What will their life look like then? Are they being useful and kind? Are they grateful? If they left school with a drive to find their purpose, a sense of confidence without entitlement, a willingness to be involved in things bigger than themselves, a desire to achieve and serve, they have the key ingredients to living a fulfilling and happy life.  

Everyday interaction with our Old Scholars suggests we are on the right path to developing respectful and engaged individuals, who will use their lifelong love of learning to make a difference. 

I welcome you to join me, our Heads of Schools and Enrolments Team on one of our personal campus tours to fully experience Westminster and see firsthand how our vibrant School and community can truly benefit your son or daughter and family. 

Simon Shepherd 
Principal