By Aneeka Simonis
HE revolutionised one of the state’s poorest performing schools, and now he’s off to inspire educational reform across the state.
Students from Kambyra College in Berwick farewelled principal Michael Muscat after his eight-and-a-half-year stint heading the school at the close of Term 3.
It’s hoped his efforts in inspiring the school’s remarkable transformation will be his lasting legacy.
Evidence of his efforts were what landed him his next gig – revolutionising more schools. For a year, day-to-day life at Kambyra College was filmed and put together in a four-part ABC observational documentary, Revolution School.
It took an in-depth look at the hard-earned success of the school which in 2008 ranked in the bottom 10 per cent in academic achievement state-wide.
Mr Muscat stepped in that year – and worked on radical educational reforms, focused on the holistic improvement of individuals.
It paid off.
The school now boasts some of the most improved results for graduating students.
His passion for education and evidenced success in the field will be used to inspire a more far-spanning revolution.
Mr Muscat has taken up a role with the Department of Education, working with “schools doing it tough.”
He’s been called in to help schools in metropolitan Melbourne and Gippsland areas.
“Some schools have got their issues and problems. I’ve been fortunate to be able to work through issues and come out with positive outcomes,” he said.
He will begin by working with the principals at struggling schools – but he warned long-term improvement does not come quick.
“I am a firm believer school improvement takes years. There is no magic wand solution. It takes long and sustained work,” Mr Muscat said.
He said working at Kambrya College were the “best years” of his career, but it’s time he and the school undergo another change.
“It’s been incredibly hard to let go,” he said.
“But there comes a time when it’s best for you and the school to have a new beginning.
“Same old, same old doesn’t cut it forever. I am leaving just at the right time where we can have a new person come take the college to the next stage.”
Assistant principal Joanne Wastle has taken over the role until a new principal is selected.
