Catherine O’Kane
MTh, MEd, BEd, GradDipLing–Chinese, GAICD
Catherine O’Kane has been Principal of All Hallows’ School since 2015, bringing more than 40 years’ experience across secondary and tertiary education. With over two decades of leadership in girls’ schools, she is deeply committed to the transformative power of girls’ education and to ensuring young women are equipped to thrive in a complex and changing world.
Catherine is a Board Director of the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools, the leading global alliance of girls’ schools, and is recognised for her expertise in strategic leadership, governance and the cultivation of strong school cultures. Her professional interests centre on creating environments where wellbeing, engagement, scholarship and leadership flourish together.
At the heart of Catherine’s educational philosophy is a belief that education is about forming young people who are confident in their voice and agency, curious and creative in their learning, resilient in the face of challenge, and reflective about their place in the world. At All Hallows’ School, students are encouraged to think deeply, build meaningful relationships, and engage fully in the rich academic, co‑curricular and community life of the school.
Catherine’s leadership is grounded in the vision of Catherine McAuley and the enduring mission of the Sisters of Mercy, who founded All Hallows’ School in 1861. Inspired by Catherine McAuley’s conviction that education can transform lives and communities, she leads with a deep commitment to the school’s Mercy values of respect, compassion, integrity, justice, joy and service.
Through this vision, Catherine seeks to ensure that every student is known and supported, challenged to grow, and empowered to use her gifts to make a positive difference—both within the school community and beyond.
