Don Grimmett is the Principal of King’s Baptist Grammar School, a role he has held since July 2019. With an exemplary career spanning coeducational and Christian education, Don brings a wealth of experience and visionary leadership to King’s. Prior to his current role, Don served as Principal of Investigator College in Victor Harbor for an impressive 17.5 years. His earlier tenure at King’s included significant leadership roles as Director of Educational Development, Director of Junior School, and Director of Senior School. Don began his teaching career at Billanook College in Victoria, establishing his foundation in educational excellence.

Don is a transformative leader who is deeply committed to the holistic development of students, nurturing their academic, spiritual, and personal growth. His leadership ethos centres on collaboration and inclusivity, fostering a culture where every student and staff member feels valued and empowered. Under Don’s guidance, King’s continues to flourish, staying true to its Christian values while equipping students to navigate and respond to an ever-changing world.

Don's commitment to professional growth and educational leadership is evident in his extensive experience. He has held prominent positions as a past board member and President of the Association of Independent Schools of South Australia (AISSA) and a former Board Member of the Independent Schools Council of Australia (now Independent Schools Australia, or ISA).

Beyond his professional achievements, Don is a man of many passions. Whether he’s playing the saxophone, sailing, or championing innovative educational practices, Don embodies the dynamic spirit of leadership that inspires those around him. His unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that King’s Baptist Grammar School remains a place where students thrive, faith flourishes, and the future is built with confidence.

Darren McDonald brings over 10 years of invaluable experience to the role of Business Director at King's. With a Bachelor of Arts in Accountancy from the University of South Australia and a CPA qualification, Darren also holds a Master of Business Administration from Deakin University, demonstrating his commitment to ongoing professional development. Before joining King’s in 2014, Darren gained extensive experience in Finance and Management Accounting with Woolworths Ltd., where he honed his strategic and operational expertise.

In his role as Business Director, Darren plays a pivotal role in overseeing the school’s financial operations, facilities and administration, ensuring the seamless running of the school’s day-to-day activities. His leadership and management skills are instrumental in providing a solid foundation for the school’s growth and success. Darren is deeply passionate about fostering an environment that enables both the educational and personal growth of all students and staff, ensuring that everyone at King’s has the resources and support to reach their full potential.

Darren’s commitment to leadership and personal development is reflected in his participation in the Executive Leader’s Program with Arrow Leadership Australia and his achievement of a Growth Coaching Accreditation. As a member of the School Board since 2006, Darren’s deep connection to the King’s community and his ongoing dedication to the school’s mission make him an integral part of the team, working tirelessly to ensure that King’s remains a thriving, supportive environment for all.

Vicky Jones has been an integral part of our school community since 1996. Throughout her distinguished career, Vicky has taught students from Reception to Year 9, with a special focus on Years 4, 6 and 7. Her leadership experience spans both the Junior and Middle Schools, and she has played a key role in shaping the educational experience for countless students. As a parent, Vicky’s deep connection to the school is further strengthened by the fact that both of her children completed their schooling from Reception to Year 12 at King's.

Vicky’s educational philosophy is rooted in her Christian faith and a profound belief in the power of community. She is passionate about fostering a nurturing environment where God’s love, grace and forgiveness flourish. Her approach prioritises the development of personal identity, ensuring that every child feels valued and empowered to grow into an independent, resourceful, and compassionate learner.

Beyond her teaching roles, Vicky has made significant contributions to educational development. She has written for the National Curriculum through Christian Schools Australia (CSA) and created resources for schools implementing The Rite Journey program. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to education, she received the NGS Super Scholarship Award in 2019.

Vicky is also committed to her professional growth, having completed a Certificate in Christian Studies from Tabor, the Executive Leader’s Program with Arrow Leadership Australia, earning a Growth Coaching Accreditation. Her dedication to Christian education and helping students understand their true identity in Christ is evident in every aspect of her leadership.

As the Head of Middle School at King’s, Brooklynne Coombe brings a deep connection to the school as both a graduate (Class of 2004) and a dedicated educator since 2009. Her passion for King’s and commitment to student development have seen her grow through various roles across the Middle School faculty, culminating in her appointment as Head of Middle School in 2023.

Brooklynne holds a Bachelor of Education in Middle School and is an advocate for nurturing students' academic, social and emotional development. Her leadership is grounded in a strong belief that every student is seen, valued, and created in the image of God, and she is dedicated to helping them discover their true identity and potential. Under her guidance, the Middle School embraces a focus on relationships, empathy, self-awareness and independence, preparing students to be confident and compassionate learners.

A champion of professional growth, Brooklynne has participated in the Executive Leader’s Program with Arrow Leadership Australia and achieved a Growth Coaching Accreditation. She has also pursued extensive professional development in positive schools, mental health, and wellbeing to ensure she is equipped to support both students and staff.

Brooklynne is deeply committed to fostering a thriving and supportive school community.

Lee Swiderski is the Head of Senior School at King’s Baptist Grammar School, a role he has embraced since 2018. With a career spanning diverse educational settings, Lee has demonstrated exceptional leadership in both single-gender and co-educational schools across metropolitan and regional South Australia. His commitment to fostering student growth and wellbeing has been a hallmark of his career.

Prior to joining King’s, Lee served as Deputy Principal at Blackfriars Priory School and as Curriculum Development Coordinator at Loreto College. These roles reflect his ability to lead with vision, innovation, and a student-centered approach. Lee’s belief in the potential of young people to make a positive impact on the world drives his leadership and inspires those around him.

Lee holds a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Mathematics and Science and a Master of Catholic Education from the University of South Australia. Lee has also completed the Executive Leader’s Program with Arrow Leadership Australia and achieved a Growth Coaching Accreditation. His dedication to continuous professional development and his passion for cultivating an enriching learning environment empowers students to achieve academic and personal success.

Lee is devoted to creating a supportive and inclusive community where every student can thrive, grow in confidence, and develop the skills to make meaningful contributions to the world. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to nurturing young people as they discover their unique potential and purpose.

Juliana Saunders is the Head of School at the King’s Baptist Grammar School - Adelaide Hills Campus, having joined the School in 2019. Juliana has excelled in roles as both a Reception Teacher and Pedagogical Coach, working across Reception to Year 7. Her broad expertise and dedication to student success have made her a respected leader in education.

A passionate advocate for lifelong learning, Juliana has expanded her leadership capabilities through the Executive Leader’s Program with Arrow Leadership Australia and achieved a Growth Coaching Accreditation. She has also held significant positions of responsibility, including completing a three-year Numeracy Project with Catholic Education, and earned a Graduate Certificate in Catholic Studies. In addition to her Bachelor of Education, Juliana holds a minor in Italian and a mini certificate in Gifted Education, underscoring her commitment to continuous professional development.

Juliana's leadership is defined by her unwavering focus on building strong, authentic relationships with students, their families, and the wider community. She believes that learning is a journey of growth and discovery, fostering curiosity, creativity and resilience in her students as they become confident, resourceful learners. Juliana’s approach empowers children to thrive both academically and personally, ensuring they are equipped for success.

Juliana is committed to cultivating a nurturing and collaborative environment for all within the School community.