Doug Thomas

Background

About Doug Thomas

I am a primary school principal who loves life and thinking about education, visionary, leadership, innovation, school design, change management, and creating a culture within my organisation where people thrive and flourish in their learning and work. In addition to my school that I love - Claremont College in Randwick, Sydney, I am passionate about social justice, education for marginalised and vulnerable kids in poverty and making the world a happier and better place. In August 2023 I was named winner of the 'Australian Primary School Principal of the Year (Non-Government)' and was also an 'Excellence Awardee for Australian School Principal of the Year' at the 2023 Australian Education Awards. Also in 2023 I was recognised as one of Australia's 'Top 50' most influential educators - Nominees were evaluated based on the overall impact of their work in the K-12 education sector over the past 12 months, demonstrating expertise in linking theory and practice, and designing and implementing innovations that provide students with high-quality educational experiences. In March 2024, my school was one of four Australian organisations (and one of two schools) to be the recipient of an (IFIP) Global Inclusion Award 2024. From submissions from 39 countries across the globe, 149 organisations and individuals were recognised and celebrated across eight categories – architecture and design, corporate and business, culture, education, social impact, health, sports, leisure and tourism. A meticulous evaluation of all applications was conducted by a distinguished panel of inclusion specialists representing each of these sectors. The aim of the awards is to: “shine a light on the diverse inclusion challenges that the world faces and to showcase existing best practices that can guide others towards ensuring equitable access and benefits in education, employment, culture, and leisure activities worldwide”.