Mr Michael Horne commenced as Principal of The Hamilton and Alexandra College in 2023. He brings to College a long understanding of regional life and education, having been raised and educated in Wangaratta and worked in regional Victorian independent schools.

Immediately prior to his appointment at The Hamilton and Alexandra College, Mr Horne was Associate Principal at Braemar College in the Macedon Ranges, and previous to this held a variety of senior leadership positions in Catholic and independent schools including Head of Senior School and Deputy Principal.

Mr Horne spent his early teaching career at Scotch College in Melbourne, and considers himself first and foremost to be an English teacher, with interests in music, history and outdoor pursuits. He has an abiding interest in thoughtful and reflective education, including ethics, big ideas and philosophy in schools.

Highly engaged in the broader education landscape, Mr Horne is an established education speaker, and has authored numerous English textbooks. He is passionate about developing the capacity of staff and students to be continual and curious learners, and is a strong advocate for pursuing excellence in teaching.

“Our collective futures will be influenced by the ways we induct young people into the challenges and excitement of intellectual and ethical life.”

Mr Horne is currently undertaking a Doctor of Education degree through The University of Melbourne with his research focusing on the development of professional learning using teacher-led action research methodologies. He holds a Master of Education and Graduate Diploma in Education, both from The University of Melbourne, and a Bachelor of Arts with Honours from Monash University.

Michael is married to Gemma, and they have two sons who also attend College.