A Day in the Life: Mr Hogan, Principal at Brigidine College

Being Principal of Brigidine College isn’t just a job — it’s a calling.

For Mr Shane Hogan, each day is a tapestry of leadership, connection, and purpose. From the quiet of early morning reflection to the energy of school assemblies, classroom walk-throughs, family interviews and after-hours events, every moment is centred around supporting students, empowering staff, and building a vibrant school community.

“There’s no doubt it’s a role of responsibility,” says Mr Hogan, “but above all, it’s a role of immense privilege.”

As he leads Brigidine College with clarity and commitment, no two days are ever the same.

What does a typical day look like in the life of the Brigidine Principal? 

6.00am – A morning walk which is the opportunity to clear the mind, plan and discern on important matters.

7.00am – Breakfast with the family, including discussion of family matters and some of the big decisions such as ‘what should we have for dinner tonight?’

8.00am – Students Arriving on Campus. Whether it’s greeting students or catching up with staff, the morning ritual sets the tone for the day ahead. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Mr Hogan plays trumpet in the before-school band rehearsals.

9.00am – Meeting with his Executive Assistant setting the objectives for the day which includes various interviews, correspondence and issue that may arise. 

9.30am – Walking the Campus. A walk-through the classrooms, checking in on lessons, engaging with students and experiencing firsthand the dynamic learning environment.

10.00am - Meeting with various members of the Executive team, depending on the cycle, it could be to do with employment, teaching and learning progress, building projects or student matters. 

12.30am – Lunchtime. No day is complete without a moment to connect informally with staff or students, hearing about their day and celebrating their successes and checking to see who has the most interesting lunch!

1.30pm – Community and Partnerships. Many afternoons of the week is time spent holding interviews for new students and families. The door is also open for the opportunity for staff to call in and tell me about their day. 

3.30pm – The end of the school day sees the students off home or on their way training or rehearsals. This is also the opportunity to visit staff rooms for a friendly chat and debrief with staff.

4.30pm – After school presents more opportunity for engagement. On any given day there are staff meeting meetings, professional development sessions, parent/teacher meetings, musical evenings, presentation with guest speakers, Board meetings or Committee meetings. The work of a Principal extends well beyond the school day, all in the pursuit of continuous growth and excellence in teaching at the College. 

8.00pm – Reflecting and Preparing for Tomorrow. Mr Hogan typically spends this time with his wife where he catches up on her day and shares his day. Later, when all is said and done, Mr Hogan might even just find some time for himself to relax and unwind in front of weekend replays of St George, St Kilda or an Arsenal game!