My actual name is Darren Hovey and Darta is a family name that has been “given” to me since I was a little fella. I share the name with my Dad and three uncles, as well as a great uncle. So when there is a gathering it can be confusing.

I started my teaching in 1988 at St. Mary’s Primary School in Ararat. From there I moved over the road to Marian College, yes I joined the “dark side’ and become a secondary teacher. I journeyed back to primary in 2003 as an Acting Principal at St. Patrick’s in Stawell.

Since 2004 I have remained in secondary education with another 7 years at Marian College, then we moved to Wangaratta for 3 years where I was the Deputy Principal, Learning and Teaching at Galen Catholic College.

In 2014 I was appointed as Principal of Catholic College, Wodonga, a role that I love. In 2018 world renowned Cambridge University included Catholic College Wodonga in its list of the globes’ 100 most innovative schools.

I have presented at multiple conferences and schools throughout Australia but also internationally in New Zealand and Japan.

Since 2016, I have developed and delivered the Leadership Development Series at Catholic College Wodonga. This series is at the heart of my belief regarding leadership; that is, as a leader I must support and grow leadership within our community.

A new year, brings new opportunities and in 2022 I commenced my new role as principal of Galen Catholic College in Wangaratta.

This blog will hopefully reflect my life as an educator who is passionate about learning and teaching, whilst attempting to help a wonderful school continue to reach new horizons.