Dr Gareth Leechman
Dr Gareth Leechman has led Arndell Anglican College since 2010, guiding its growth into a thriving Pre-K–Year 12 school renowned for academic excellence, pastoral care, and Christian values. An award-winning and respected national educational leader, he also serves as National Chair of AHISA, shaping policy and practice for independent schools across Australia.
Dr Gareth Leechman is the Headmaster of Arndell Anglican College in Oakville, New South Wales, an award-winning, thriving Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 co-educational day school with over 1,250 students. Since his appointment in 2010, Dr Leechman has led the College through significant growth, reinforcing its reputation as the school of choice for families in the Hawkesbury and Greater Hills regions of Sydney.
Prior to joining Arndell, Dr Leechman served as Headmaster of Clarence Valley Anglican School in Grafton. His earlier leadership roles include Head of History and Head of House at Shore School in North Sydney. With a deep-rooted passion for faith-based leadership, he is widely recognised for his commitment to fostering a culture of educational excellence, pastoral care, and Christian character.
Under Dr Leechman’s leadership, Arndell has most recently announced its new 2026-2028 Strategic Intent Plan (which received the Best School Strategic Plan Excellence Award at the 2026 Australian Education Awards), focusing on Excellence and Character. His vision prioritises whole-child development, combining academic rigour with critical and creative thinking, co-curricular engagement, and spiritual growth. He believes that education extends beyond traditional academics, preparing students to flourish as confident, well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to their communities and beyond.
Dr Leechman is a distinguished leader in education, holding a PhD in School Governance, a Master of Education, and a Master of Arts from Macquarie University. Since 2021, he has served on the National Board of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA) and has been an active member of the NSW/ACT Branch Executive since 2013, including his tenure as Branch Chair from 2022 - 2024. In his most recent appointment, Dr Leechman was elected as the National Chair of AHISA, where he provides strategic leadership to 470 Heads of independent schools across Australia. In this role, he plays a pivotal part in shaping national educational thinking, policy and practice. Committed to fostering professional collaboration and continuous school improvement, Dr Leechman deeply values the development opportunities that AHISA offers to educational leaders.
In 2026, Dr Leechman was honoured in the 2026 Most Influential Educators List by The Educator, which recognises Australian educators transforming the educational landscape and delivering meaningful impact through leadership, innovation and contributions to their schools and the wider education community.
Dr Leechman remains steadfast in his commitment to connection - building strong relationships with students, staff, College families, the Christian community, and the wider society. His leadership continues to shape Arndell Anglican College as a place where students are equipped for lifelong success, anchored in faith, integrity, and a passion for learning.
On a more personal note, Dr Leechman and his wife, Janet, take great pride in their three wonderful daughters. Two have recently graduated from university and are beginning exciting new careers, while their youngest continues to pursue her education with dedication.
Dr Gareth Leechman
PhD MA M.Ed MACE MACEL