In good hands

October 2, 2025

We are both excited and honoured to announce the appointment of Mr. Michael Schwartz, a seasoned leader with over three decades of experience in some of South Africa’s most respected schools.

Michael has held senior posts at Michaelhouse, St Alban’s College, and Tyger Valley College, earning a reputation as a principled, collaborative leader with a knack for lifting academic standards, energising sporting culture, and building communities where young people thrive. Colleagues enthusiastically describe him as “deeply principled”, “compassionate”, and “highly competent”.

His selection comes after a rigorous nine-month recruitment process that drew a large pool of talented applicants. Following multiple interviews with senior ThriveEd leaders, advanced psychometric testing, and exhaustive reference checks, Michael emerged as the clear choice to lead St Luke’s into a bright, bold future.

In his own words, Michael shares his hope for St Luke’s as follows:

“My hope for the St Luke’s community is that the school will be Christ-centered and a place where the fruit of the Holy Spirit is evident. I pray that our teachers will be inspired to facilitate an amazing academic and extracurricular environment. In response, our students will be motivated to participate fully in all the school has to offer and will achieve results beyond their wildest imagination. My hope is that all of this will take place while they thrive on the beautiful St Luke’s campus – a place where everyone feels safe and has a true sense of belonging.”

We are confident that under his leadership, St Luke’s will embody the very heart of purpose-driven education.

Michael will officially assume his role as Executive Head in January 2026. Until then, the school continues to be served with distinction byColleen Traviss-Lea, whom many of our parents have already come to know. Colleen will remain as Interim Executive Head through the end of this year, and will continue to support St Luke’s during the transition period to ensure continuity, stability, and a seamless handover. Alongside her, the wider ThriveEd team will remain closely involved, enabling Michael to focus fully on preparing to deliver a life-changing education from his first day in office.