New Head of College champions critical and creative thinking at St Joseph’s College

25/07/2025

​St Joseph's College, Coomera Head of College Nathan Camilleri with senior students. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Joseph's College, Coomera (2025).

​Nathan Camilleri has stepped into the role of Head of College at St Joseph’s College, Coomera with a clear focus on fostering a culture of critical and creative thinking across all year levels.  

With a background in design, technology, and school leadership, Nathan is already making an impact by encouraging students and staff to think more deeply, question more boldly, and approach learning with curiosity and confidence.  

In this Q&A, Nathan shares insights into his leadership approach, his vision for the future of the College, and why he believes critical and creative thinking are essential in shaping out of the box thinkers.  

Q: What drew you to St Joseph’s College?  

A: It’s a relatively new school with huge potential. I saw an opportunity to be part of the change within the school.  

Q: Why do you love working at the College?  

A: There are great opportunities within the school, a great team to lead with, and willing staff who are eager to move forward. It is a very welcoming College where everyone says hello and enjoys chatting and asking questions.  

I also have a great working relationship with Principal Paul Easton. He’s done amazing things at the College.  

Q: What do you love most about College life?    

A: I enjoy getting involved in school life—rugby, sports, and events. The school recently staged its first musical, The Wizard of Oz, which set a high benchmark for future productions. It was incredible.  

Q: What changes are underway at the College?  

A: We’ve undertaken a review of our learning and teaching framework, aiming to incorporate the critical thinking model. Instead of telling students exactly what to learn or do, the teacher guides them to discover it themselves through experience, exploration, or modelling.  

Q: How do you plan to implement your critical thinking model across the College?  

A: We’re rolling it out to staff, especially middle leaders, and upskilling educators. It’s a three-year project, starting with Year 7 and Year 10 in 2026.  

Q: How does your educational background influence your approach?  

A: I’m originally a design teacher. I use design thinking to create innovative learning models for my students. The aim is to move away from traditional classroom teaching to project-based collaborative learning where students create their own unique solutions.

  

Q: What else is new at the College?  

A: Part of my role is to create structures that provide students with career opportunities. We have already introduced a Certificate III in Hospitality this year as part of a developing Hospitality Institute. As part of the certificate, students can now travel to do hospitality work in the South East and Whitsunday Islands and build partnerships with local restaurants where they can gain qualifications and enter the industry directly.  

Q: How do you think your students would describe you?  

A: I’d say my students would say that I am an approachable person who cares about their future.  

For more information about St Joseph’s College, Coomera or to enrol click here. 

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