News and Events
Foundation Principal appointed to lead new St Oscar Romero Catholic Primary School at Drouin
July 2026
St Oscar Romero Catholic Primary School, Drouin
The foundation principal to lead the new St Oscar Romero Catholic Primary School, under construction in Drouin, has been announced as Mr Derek Bruitzman.
Mr Bruitzman, who is currently principal of St John’s Catholic Primary School, Frankston East, will assume the principalship in July for the commencement of Term 3, 2026, in preparation of the school’s planned opening in Term 1, 2027.
Derek Bruitzman has spent 18 years in the education sector, the past seven years as Principal of St John’s Catholic Primary School, Frankston East.
Mr Bruitzman said he was looking forward to building a safe, welcoming and inclusive, Catholic school community, built on a strong learning culture and inspired by the charism of St Oscar Romero.
“Our new school will be proudly connected to the Parish of St Ita’s in Drouin and will work closely with St Ita’s Catholic Primary School, as well as Marist-Sion College, Warragul. As a new school, we have a unique opportunity to build a connected and inclusive community from the very beginning – one where each child and every family feels a genuine sense of belonging.”
Mr Paul Velten, Executive Director of Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited (DOSCEL), welcomed the appointment describing Mr Bruitzman as an outstanding leader.
“Derek brings a clear vision for strengthening faith-centred education while supporting strong learning outcomes for every student. His leadership will lay a solid and positive foundation for the school community.”
As Foundation Principal, Derek will play a key role in preparing for the school’s opening, while building relationships with future school and parish families.
Student enrolment enquiries can be made by emailing [email protected] or phoning: 03 5622 6600. Recruitment for staff will commence during Term 3 and 4, 2026.
Located at 94 Weebar Road, Drouin, the new St Oscar Romero Catholic Primary School Stage 1 development is planned to open for Term 1, 2027.
For enrolment enquiries: [email protected]