I am honoured to introduce myself as the Head of Secondary at Sunshine Coast Grammar School. I began my career as a Science teacher in Western Australia before moving to North Queensland in the early 1990’s. Over the past 35 years, I have had the opportunity to hold a number of leadership positions including Head of Faculty, Head of House, Head of Sport, Head of Middle School and Dean of Students.
I have been a member of the teaching team at Grammar since 2009 and my greatest passion is teaching Senior Biology. My educational philosophy is to ignite a passion for learning in our students so that they can continue through life with a growth mindset. Developing our students not for today but for the future. I am very passionate about creating a learner centred environment built upon strong respectful relationships between students and their teachers.
Secondary School at Grammar builds upon the knowledge, understandings and skills that are cohesively and sequentially developed in our Primary School. In Secondary School we further develop and integrate the total learning process at home, at school and in the community. The student remains the focal point in all that we do and our aim is to provide each student with many options to meet their individual education goals.
Our curriculum is designed with a strong academic focus to meet the needs of students considering further studies post Year 12. We also recognise the need to provide suitable pathways for all students throughout the Senior Phase of Learning. Opportunities exist for students to be involved in School Based Traineeships and Apprenticeships while support is ongoing for those who wish to work toward a Tertiary Rank. It is acknowledged that regardless of the pathway taken, all students have an obligation to uphold the specific academic demands that best prepare them for life beyond school.
Sunshine Coast Grammar School is an independent, co-educational, Christian based school for children from Prep to Year Twelve. Established in 1997, the school is committed to excellence and offers an outstanding comprehensive education, based on individual care and attention. The School provides high quality academic, cultural and sporting programs in a supportive learning environment to enable students to reach their individual goals.
At Sunshine Coast Grammar School we pride ourselves on our connectedness to each other and the supportive and caring relationships students establish and maintain with their peers and teachers throughout their time at school.
We recognise the importance of preparing our students to contribute locally, nationally and globally in the 21st century and are equipping our students with the digital tools to enhance and transform learning. Innovation, creativity, collaboration and problem-solving skillsets are vital tools to empower our students for the future.
PRINCIPAL'S WELCOME
On behalf of the Sunshine Coast Grammar School community, I am delighted to welcome you to our school. Established in 1997, we are a leading co-educational, Christian, independent, inclusive school catering for Prep to Year 12 students.
Stepping into our school you will see and feel in action a learning community where the staff and students are genuinely connected to a central purpose. This is a school that clearly focuses on nurturing, challenging and engaging students to be the best they can be and pursue their individual areas of interest and passion.
Our Campus
Sunshine Coast Grammar School is a unique learning environment set on a beautiful 100 acre site with its own lakes and rainforest.
Our environment encompasses beautiful natural surrounds, excellent facilities, high standards, caring and supportive relationships and outstanding, safe learning spaces.
LIFE AT GRAMMAR
Through our Curricular and Extra-Curricular Programs at Sunshine Coast Grammar School, we have created an environment where learning is stimulating and fun, where opportunities to explore, try and participate are plentiful and where students grow in knowledge and in character.
Learning at Grammar is designed to ensure that all students have the opportunity to realise their personal interests and individual potential. Academically, students at Grammar consistently perform strongly confirming the School’s place as one of the top academic performers in the region.
Faith in Action
At Sunshine Coast Grammar School, we pride ourselves on looking outward to others and serving our community with passion and purpose. Built on our strong Christian ethos, we believe in encouraging faith in action.
Through our Christian Education programs students from Prep – Year 12 are informed about the life, death and rising of Jesus Christ. They are given the opportunity to develop their faith and in doing so have the opportunity to participate in voluntary Christian groups, Family Chapel Services and more.
Further to this a number of opportunities are also available to all at Sunshine Coast Grammar which ensure that we are doing all we can to assist those who need a ‘helping hand’.
Through giving their time and energy, students throughout the school develop a strong sense of community engagement and build empathy for those less fortunate.
From overseas charity organisations to local Sunshine Coast based charity groups, Grammar students are extending a hand of support in times of need.
Students have the opportunity to be involved in many community based initiatives at Grammar.
OUR VISION FOR LEARNING
ENGAGING
PERSONALISED
REFLECTIVE
CONNECTED
ENGAGING
When learning is relevant and students are engaged in class, they learn more. It is vital that teachers create the right classroom climate for learning: high expectations; developing a rapport with students; establishing routines; challenging students to participate and take risks. These all affect how much students engage and learn.
PERSONALISED
Learning is personalised to increase engagement, achievement and personal growth. A commitment to recognising, appreciating, and catering for the variety of characteristics that make individuals unique is key to learner success. Tailoring student learning matches learning needs and supports the development of personal passions and interests.
REFLECTIVE
Reflection is an integral part of the learning process. It allows students to learn more about themselves and how they learn. Reflection provides an opportunity for feedback and feed forward conversations, as well as the creation of meaningful connections for deep learning.
CONNECTED
Learning at Grammar is designed as a continuous pathway. This implies whole school alignment of curriculum and pedagogy, and a shared responsibility for student learning, realised through a strong team approach.
Meaningful connections are also the result of connecting with prior learning and the application of new knowledge into different contexts. In a digitised world, learning is connected through technology. We are also connected as a Grammar learning community through positive, professional relationships, and a personal relationship with Christ. As global citizens we aim to develop internationally minded people who, recognise their common humanity, embed sustainable practices, and help to create a better and more peaceful world.
OUR EXECUTIVE TEAM
Anna Owen
PRINCIPAL
Mrs Anna Owen, Principal at Sunshine Coast Grammar School grew up in rural Western Queensland. After completing her tertiary studies in Science and Education, Anna taught at several schools throughout South East Queensland including Somerset College, Ipswich Girls Grammar and Moreton Bay College.
In 2014 Mrs Owen joined Brisbane Girls Grammar School where she went on to become Deputy Principal while also stepping in as Acting Principal before relocating interstate to Canberra to take up the position as Principal of Canberra Girls Grammar School in 2019.
After three successful years in the Nation’s capital, Mrs Owen returned to Queensland and in 2022 became the fourth Principal to lead Sunshine Coast Grammar School, a co-educational school for students from Early Learning through to Year 12.
A member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Mrs Owen is currently completing her Masters of Business Administration through the University of Queensland. In 2011 she achieved her Masters in Science with a high distinction and has since completed the Stanford University Managing Teams for innovation and Success program.
During her time in Canberra Mrs Owen established and implemented an award-winning strategic direction and design for Canberra Girls Grammar School. Mrs Owen has become known for the vision and energy she brings to her role. She is determined to equip students with the confidence, skills and education they need to shape their futures, whether they want to be a political leader, run their own business or chase their dreams with passion and purpose.
Mrs Owen has extensive experience in leading teaching and learning as well as implementing pastoral care and wellbeing programs. She is passionate about the advancement of women and gender equity for all. Her strong leadership abilities and experience will continue to build a culture of excellence and guide Sunshine Coast Grammar School through the current growth and development.
Darren MacLeod-Paterson
HEAD OF SECONDARY
Darren MacLeod-Paterson
HEAD OF SECONDARY
Craig Angel
HEAD OF PRIMARY
Craig Angel
HEAD OF PRIMARY
As a teacher and Primary School leadership team member at Sunshine Coast Grammar for over 21 years, I was proud to be appointed as the Head of Primary in 2023.
I began my teaching career in New South Wales and following early opportunities in Assistant Principal and Deputy Principal positions I was appointed Principal of Cobbitty Public School in 2001.
I began my career in Queensland at Sunshine Coast Grammar School in 2004, working in both the Primary and Middle Schools, before taking up the Director of Teaching and Learning Role in the Primary School. As Assistant Head of Primary I have worked closely with the whole school community. My time at Sunshine Coast Grammar has enabled me to develop a clear understanding of what makes our community so unique and how we can continue to grow and become even stronger.
As a school, we believe in working closely with families to develop well rounded students and good people. We do this through the implementation of our very own academic and well-being programs which together ensure we develop outstanding Grammar students, ready to take on the challenges and opportunities that are presented as they move through Secondary School and beyond.
I welcome you to our website and invite you to learn more about how our wellbeing programs, our curriculum, including its core elements, specialist teaching support and signature programs. Learn how these elements combine with our approach to teaching and learning to develop curious, passionate and confident learners.
I began my teaching career in New South Wales and following early opportunities in Assistant Principal and Deputy Principal positions I was appointed Principal of Cobbitty Public School in 2001.
I began my career in Queensland at Sunshine Coast Grammar School in 2004, working in both the Primary and Middle Schools, before taking up the Director of Teaching and Learning Role in the Primary School. As Assistant Head of Primary I have worked closely with the whole school community. My time at Sunshine Coast Grammar has enabled me to develop a clear understanding of what makes our community so unique and how we can continue to grow and become even stronger.
As a school, we believe in working closely with families to develop well rounded students and good people. We do this through the implementation of our very own academic and well-being programs which together ensure we develop outstanding Grammar students, ready to take on the challenges and opportunities that are presented as they move through Secondary School and beyond.
I welcome you to our website and invite you to learn more about how our wellbeing programs, our curriculum, including its core elements, specialist teaching support and signature programs. Learn how these elements combine with our approach to teaching and learning to develop curious, passionate and confident learners.
Melinda Sowden
BUSINESS MANAGER
Melinda Sowden
BUSINESS MANAGER
Melinda was appointed Business Manager at Sunshine Coast Grammar School in December 2024, following her 18-month tenure as Director of Finance. As a past parent of the School, she considers it a privilege to continue contributing to the Grammar community.
Prior to joining the School, Melinda spent over 13 years in the Commercial Property sector, where she developed extensive expertise in financial and operational management. Her broader professional background includes experience in a variety of industries, such as registered training organizations (RTOs), chartered accounting, local government, and retail. This diverse experience has provided her with a comprehensive skill set to effectively support the School’s strategic and operational objectives.
Prior to joining the School, Melinda spent over 13 years in the Commercial Property sector, where she developed extensive expertise in financial and operational management. Her broader professional background includes experience in a variety of industries, such as registered training organizations (RTOs), chartered accounting, local government, and retail. This diverse experience has provided her with a comprehensive skill set to effectively support the School’s strategic and operational objectives.
Kelly Somerville
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Kelly Somerville
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
I am excited to join the Sunshine Coast Grammar School community, having become part of the team in 2024. I am a passionate educator who began my career in Central Queensland before moving internationally to England. After returning to Australia, I worked in Brisbane before moving to Singapore, where I spent 20 years in the international education sector. These diverse experiences have shaped my approach to teaching and leadership, allowing me to bring a global perspective to building inclusive, high-performing school communities.
My work is dedicated to leading schools in building a strong sense of belonging within and across the school community. I have led multiple new initiatives and designed whole-school processes and structures to drive success. Through effective collaboration and change management, I align and lead both operational and academic staff to achieve desired outcomes. I use data-driven decision-making to inform whole-school development and change, ensuring continuous improvement in student learning and well-being. I lead high-performance teams focused on developing inclusive cultures and practices driven by strategic intent. My passion for building teacher capacity and providing high-quality instruction fuels my ongoing commitment to all learners.
As a passionate educator, I believe my role is to ensure that school systems and structures enhance the experiences of staff, students, and the wider community. I am committed to creating an environment where every child has the opportunity to succeed in their chosen pathways. A strong school culture built on engagement, curiosity, and persistence is essential to this success. I firmly believe that high-quality instructional practices and a strong focus on teacher development not only support student achievement but also foster a dynamic learning environment where students are inspired to explore, challenge themselves, and develop the resilience needed for lifelong learning.
I am looking forward to working with the Sunshine Coast Grammar School community and contributing to the next phase of growth and development. I am excited to collaborate with staff, students, and families to build on the school's strong foundation and ensure continued success. I aim to support the school in achieving its vision for the future.
My work is dedicated to leading schools in building a strong sense of belonging within and across the school community. I have led multiple new initiatives and designed whole-school processes and structures to drive success. Through effective collaboration and change management, I align and lead both operational and academic staff to achieve desired outcomes. I use data-driven decision-making to inform whole-school development and change, ensuring continuous improvement in student learning and well-being. I lead high-performance teams focused on developing inclusive cultures and practices driven by strategic intent. My passion for building teacher capacity and providing high-quality instruction fuels my ongoing commitment to all learners.
As a passionate educator, I believe my role is to ensure that school systems and structures enhance the experiences of staff, students, and the wider community. I am committed to creating an environment where every child has the opportunity to succeed in their chosen pathways. A strong school culture built on engagement, curiosity, and persistence is essential to this success. I firmly believe that high-quality instructional practices and a strong focus on teacher development not only support student achievement but also foster a dynamic learning environment where students are inspired to explore, challenge themselves, and develop the resilience needed for lifelong learning.
I am looking forward to working with the Sunshine Coast Grammar School community and contributing to the next phase of growth and development. I am excited to collaborate with staff, students, and families to build on the school's strong foundation and ensure continued success. I aim to support the school in achieving its vision for the future.