Mr Wrigley is the new deputy principal at Emmanuel College and has moved from Geelong with his wife Claire and their daughter Sophie to take on the role. 

He has held deputy principal positions at St Virgils College in Hobart and CBC St Kilda. He was also head of campus at St Joseph’s College in Geelong. 

“It’s a bit different for me,” Mr Wrigley said. “I’ve come from working in all boys’ schools the last 20 years. Even on yard duty it’s a lot calmer with the girls and the boys. It’s a nice change for me after working at a school that had 1800 boys in it. It’s good.”

He will work to support principal Peter Morgan in the newly created role, as well as staff members across teaching and learning and student pastoral care and well being. 

The family was drawn to Warrnambool for its coastal location, its proximity to Geelong and the college’s excellent reputation. 

Its links to Christian Brothers and the Sisters of Mercy was also significant as he has worked at three Edmund Rice schools in the past 20 years and his two eldest daughters attended Sacred Heart College in Geelong.

“I have had two previous experiences as deputy principal and had very much enjoyed the opportunities that they provided me to test my leadership capabilities.” 

He said was a good opportunity for him and Claire who is the new assistant principal at Mercy Regional College in Camperdown. 

“When Emmanuel advertised I felt that the time was right for me to move away from Geelong and immerse myself in a new community.

“I’m really enjoying it. The staff are really supportive, there’s a good sense of community and people who do the very best for the students.

He enjoys working alongside students and loves the enthusiasm and energy that exists in a school.

“Whilst at times the pace can be quite frenetic, it keeps you on your toes and provides opportunities to continue to learn.

“Every day brings something new. Every year you get a new bunch of students into the school and they bring their stories with them.”