Dr Sandra Hewson (middle) with Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Port Pirie, Nichii Mardon (left) and Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Port Pirie, Karol Kulczycki SDS (right).

Experienced educational leader Dr Sandra Hewson has been appointed as the inaugural Campus Principal of Xavier College Riverlea Park, ahead of its opening in 2027.

Following a comprehensive recruitment process, Dr Hewson’s appointment marks a significant milestone as the first key leadership position for the new campus, which will initially cater for students from Reception to Year 6, with a planned expansion through to Year 12.

The campus will support families in one of South Australia’s fastest-growing residential communities, with strong early interest already shown through more than 300 enrolment applications.

Commencing in Term 3 this year, Dr Hewson will play a key role in leading the establishment of the Riverlea Park Campus and in ensuring that the Xavier College experience, values and educational approach are embedded within the community from the very beginning.

At the end of Term 2, Dr Hewson will conclude her tenure at St Mark’s College, Port Pirie, where she has successfully led the school since 2022.

With more than 36 years of teaching and leadership experience across Australia, the United Kingdom and Europe, alongside a Doctorate in Education, Dr Hewson brings extensive expertise in educational excellence, student wellbeing and inclusive learning practices. St Mark’s College, like Xavier College, is a Catholic school educating in the Salesian tradition, providing Sandra with a strong understanding of the values and educational approach that underpin our community.

Drawing on her experience of creating inclusive and connected school communities, Dr Hewson will guide the development of the Riverlea Park campus, ensuring that students, staff and families feel supported to succeed.

As Campus Principal, Dr Hewson will work under the leadership of College Principal Mark Flaherty and alongside the leaders of Xavier College’s existing campuses to help shape and strengthen the College’s growing community.

Catholic Education South Australia Executive Director, Dr Neil McGoran, said the appointment reflects Xavier College’s strong vision for the future and commitment to building a thriving school community across all Xavier College campuses.

“Dr Sandra Hewson is a highly respected and accomplished leader who cares deeply about students, families and staff,” Dr McGoran said.

“She understands the importance of building strong relationships and creating an environment where young people can grow and thrive, making her well placed to lead the new Riverlea Park Campus.”

Xavier College Principal, Mark Flaherty, said Dr Hewson’s appointment marks an exciting milestone for the Riverlea Park Campus and will help ensure the strong values and sense of community that define Xavier College are carried through from the very beginning.

“As Campus Principal, Sandra will play an important role in bringing the Xavier College experience to Riverlea Park, while also working closely with local families to ensure the campus reflects and responds to the needs of its growing community,” Mr Flaherty said.

“We look forward to welcoming Sandra to the Xavier College leadership team and working alongside her as we continue to grow one connected Catholic College community.”

As the opening of Xavier College Riverlea Park draws closer, Dr Hewson has shared her excitement in helping to shape a new school community from the very beginning.

“It has been a dream of mine to lead a campus as it opens its doors to students and families for the first time,” Dr Hewson said.

“I am incredibly excited by the opportunity to join the Xavier College team and build strong connections with the Riverlea Park community, helping ensure every student feels supported, valued and confident in who they are.”

The appointment follows further recognition of Dr Hewson’s outstanding contribution to education at the 2026 Catholic Education Awards, where she received the Leadership Excellence Award for her dedication to leading school communities.

With the construction of the campus and adjoining sports and community facilities well on track, Xavier College Riverlea Park is set to become an important part of the growing Riverlea community. Watch the latest timelapse video here.

Families and educators looking to be part of the new campus should visit: https://www.xavier.catholic.edu.au/riverlea-park/

Mark Flaherty
College Principal