Leadership, legacy, and lasting change -Dr Peter Miller's time at the helm

Prof. Richard Page, Chair of Council

After nearly a decade of visionary leadership, Dr Peter Miller concludes his tenure as Principal of The Geelong College at the end of Term 3, leaving behind a legacy of transformation, compassion, and purpose. Since his appointment in 2015, Dr Miller has led with steady, considered leadership that has helped shape the College’s future while honouring its past.

A highly respected educational leader with over 30 years of experience in prominent schools across Australia and the UK, Dr Peter Miller brought a wealth of knowledge to The Geelong College. With a Doctorate and a Master’s in Education, and additional professional development from institutions such as Cranlana and Cambridge, he understood the evolving educational needs of young people in the 21st century. His philosophy centred on belonging, connection, character development, and excellence in academic and co-curricular pursuits.

Peter’s decade at the helm has seen the strengthening of the College’s educational programs and the implementation of a College-wide Instructional Model. This model, delayed initially by COVID-19, now guides professional practice and conversation, ensuring a consistent and contemporary approach to teaching. He described this initiative as one of the most significant contributions of his tenure, designed to shape the College’s teaching for the next decade.

Another hallmark of Peter’s leadership was his compassionate, survivorfocused response to historic harm. Guided by Christian principles, he helped the College navigate this sensitive issue with humanity, reinforcing a culture of care and accountability.

His deep commitment to reconciliation was reflected in the strengthening of ties with Indigenous communities during his leadership. These efforts were integrated meaningfully into the life of the College, underscoring a

broader commitment to equity and inclusion.

Peter led the renewal of the College’s Strategic Plan and oversaw the implementation of a major Masterplan review, which included the key infrastructure developments of Campbell House and Belerren that balanced heritage with innovation. He often described this dual focus as an effort to honour the past while embracing the future. The improvements not only enhanced the physical campus but supported

As a Member of Council and Chair covering most of his tenure, I can say Dr Miller’s impact has been immense and will endure.

contemporary learning environments.

In his words, he hopes his legacy will be seen in “building a confident humility” within the College. “By this I mean the confidence to say ‘I don’t know or I cannot be sure - but I know we can address it,’”. His goal has been to instil resilience and authenticity in students and staff, fostering a community that is engaged, courageous, and willing to face challenges.

Beyond the College gates, Peter has contributed significantly to independent and ecumenical education. He served in leadership roles, including Chair of the Ecumenical Schools Australia and a key figure within the APS Headmasters Group in Victoria. His advocacy for ethically aware decision-making and strategic leadership has left an impact far beyond Geelong.

Peter also takes pride in strengthening the relationship between The Geelong College and the Uniting Church. He has worked to ensure that this connection served both the College and the St David’s congregation with purpose and integrity.

Throughout his career, Peter has been supported by his wife Naomi and their children Alexander, Phoebe, and Hugh. A recent milestone - becoming a grandfather to baby Oliver - adds a personal note of joy and transition to this professional chapter.

Reflecting on his time, Peter notes that his initiatives were never about personal legacy but about doing what was right for the College over time. “The ideas have been intentional,” he said, “not a legacy - just what I have tried to do.”

As he steps into a new chapter, The Geelong College community bids farewell with deep gratitude and admiration. His contributions have helped position the College for the next 50 years - anchored in thoughtful leadership, academic excellence, and a compassionate, forward-looking vision. As a Member of Council and Chair covering most of his tenure, I can say Peter’s impact has been immense and will endure. It has been a pleasure to not only work together but also become good friends while observing his passion for educating young people. We wish him and Naomi the very best as he takes up his new role as Headmaster of Shore School in Sydney.