From Classroom to Deputy Principal: Ruth McKinnon’s Leadership Journey at Fintona

From Science Teacher to School Leader

For Ruth McKinnon, the path to educational leadership began not in a classroom, but in a university chemistry lab. During her Honours year in Chemistry, tutoring first-year students quickly became the highlight of her week – a passion that changed her career trajectory.

‘Tutoring turned out to be the best part of my week, so I knew teaching was for me and I changed direction from science research to education,’ she says.

Today, as Deputy Principal at Fintona, that same passion continues to drive her work: supporting students as they grow, mature and discover the confidence to thrive.

Nothing beats watching the ‘aha’ moments when girls grasp new ideas, she says, and it is this commitment to girls’ education that has underpinned much of her career.

Ruth’s professional journey reflects the kind of teacher career progression and leadership opportunities in education that Fintona actively supports: one built through experience, leadership opportunities and a commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.

Much of her career has been spent in girls’ schools, teaching Science, Maths and Chemistry while taking on additional leadership responsibilities including Science Co-ordinator, Timetabler and Daily Organiser. At Fintona, Ruth progressed from VCE Co-ordinator to Head of Curriculum and Assessment, then Head of Learning and Teaching, before stepping into the role of Deputy Principal.

She pays tribute to a number of outstanding educators who have shaped her path, including her first Principal, Margaret Leahy, who encouraged her to ‘learn to be a leader by being a leader’. At Fintona, former Principal Suzy Chandler encouraged Ruth to think broadly about education and the influence schools can have on individuals and society, while current Principal Rachael Falloon has further developed her thinking around school governance, policy and strategic leadership.

A Culture That Invests In Educators

While Ruth’s journey is unique, she says it reflects a broader culture at Fintona – one where teachers are supported to grow, collaborate and contribute meaningfully to the life and direction of the school.

A small girls’ school with a strong academic curriculum and a reputation for producing intelligent, community-minded graduates is what initially drew her to Fintona. What has kept her here is the sense of belonging within a true learning community, together with the school motto Age Quod Agis – do what you do well – a philosophy that continues to shape the culture for staff and students alike.

At Fintona, appointments and career progression are grounded in merit, capability and a shared commitment to educational excellence. Leadership opportunities are shaped by what educators bring to the classroom, their contribution to the school community, and their capacity to think broadly about girls’ education.

Leadership Pathways and Career Growth

For teachers seeking teaching jobs in Victoria or education leadership roles, even within a smaller school environment there are meaningful pathways to growth. Staff can help shape the character and future direction of the school through opportunities such as pastoral leadership across Tutor and House groups, leading a learning area team, or joining review groups that contribute to strategic change.

Fintona also reinforces its commitment to attracting and retaining outstanding educators through above-award teacher salaries, with remuneration positioned above comparable schools in Victoria’s independent education sector. Combined with generous teacher professional development opportunities and strong operational support, it reflects the school’s belief that excellent teaching should be recognised and rewarded.

Careers At Fintona Girls’ School

For teachers considering a move into school leadership roles, Ruth’s advice is to join as many groups and committees as possible to gain a deeper understanding of how schools operate, continue professional learning, and apply for leadership opportunities with a willingness to learn.

For those exploring careers at Fintona Girls’ School, Ruth’s journey offers a compelling example of how the school invests in its educators – supporting long-term growth, recognising talent and merit, and creating an environment where both staff and students can thrive.