Media releases
New Foundation Principal Appointed for St Francis Catholic College
Mr Chris Oates - Principal of St Francis Catholic College
Toowoomba Catholic Schools (TCS) is delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Oakes as the Foundation Principal of St Francis Catholic College, Westbrook, effective from the beginning of 2026.
Although new to TCS, Chris is a familiar face in the Toowoomba education community through his current role as Deputy Principal at Downlands College. His leadership experience also includes senior roles at St Michael’s College, Gold Coast and St Laurence’s College, Brisbane.
In his new role, Chris will lead the establishment and future growth of St Francis Catholic College from the ground up. He brings a wealth of experience and proven capacity to create a thriving, faith-filled learning community. Chris is widely recognised as an excellent leader with the vision and drive to ensure the College is distinctively Catholic and deeply connected to its community.
Chris is an exceptional educator who understands the practical realities of the classroom and champions a curriculum that engages and inspires students to achieve their best. He is also a skilled community builder—an essential quality for this foundational role. At Downlands College, Chris successfully oversaw the expansion to include primary classes while maintaining and strengthening the College’s charism and culture.
Most importantly, Chris has the capability to embed and celebrate the Franciscan charism at the heart of the new College, using it as a powerful way to teach and model the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. The message of St Francis is deeply relevant for today’s young people, and Chris’ ability to bring this to life will be a distinctive feature of St Francis Catholic College.
Dr Pat Coughlan, Executive Director: Toowoomba Catholic Schools, said the appointment marks an exciting milestone for the College.
“St Francis Catholic College will be a contemporary Catholic learning community for Westbrook. We are delighted to welcome Chris Oakes, whose faith, experience and vision will guide the College as it serves families for generations to come.”
Chris holds a Master of Educational Leadership, Bachelor of Education, and Bachelor of Arts.
Located in Westbrook, St Francis Catholic College is a new Toowoomba Catholic school designed to meet the growing needs of the region. Planned as a vibrant community hub, the College will offer high-quality education from Kindergarten to Year 12 - a place of wonder with the community at its heart.
