De La Salle College Malvern is strengthening its commitment to academic excellence and character education through a series of leadership appointments in 2026, its first year as a Years 7–12 College. Led by Principal Michael Ilott, the team brings complementary expertise in teaching, professional growth and faith formation, united by a commitment to developing young men of character.
Michael commenced as the College’s 22nd Principal following eight years as Director of Senior School at Xavier College, Kew. His experience spans Catholic educational leadership and the corporate sector, including an earlier role as Deputy Principal at CBC St Kilda. A founding committee member of the Australian Character Education Alliance, he brings a strong interest in how schools help young people develop the judgement, resilience and sense of responsibility needed to lead meaningful lives.
At De La Salle, character education connects learning with the person each student is becoming. It means helping boys consider how they treat others, respond to challenges, make decisions and use their strengths in service of their community. Grounded in the Lasallian values of Quality Education, Faith, Respect, Inclusivity and Social Justice, this approach gives purpose to achievement and encourages students to contribute with confidence and compassion.
Joining Michael is Chris Pye, Deputy Principal: Learning and Innovation, an Old Collegian from the Class of 1995. Chris brings more than 20 years of teaching experience, including 15 years in Catholic educational leadership. Previously Dean of Studies at Mazenod College, his expertise spans curriculum design, academic leadership, staff development and student wellbeing.
Brad Carmody, Director of Faith and Mission, joined the College following his work as Principal and Head of Education at the Melbourne Indigenous Transition School. His experience supports De La Salle’s commitment to faith in action, connecting its Catholic identity with service, social justice and meaningful relationships.
In Term 4, Maria Alberto joins as Director of Professional and Pedagogical Growth, a new College Executive position. Maria brings expertise in professional learning, instructional coaching and staff development, and has recently completed a Master of Instructional Leadership at the University of Melbourne. Her role will strengthen teacher capability and support a consistent, high-quality approach to teaching and learning across the College.
Together, these appointments bring a shared commitment to excellent teaching, purposeful leadership and the development of young men of character. The team will guide the College’s continued growth, supporting students to achieve their goals and contribute thoughtfully to the world around them.
De La Salle College educates over 1,000 students across three campuses – Tiverton, Holy Eucharist and Kinnoull. Each campus is aligned for […]