The news was announced on Monday morning, with the appointment made by Edmund Rice Education Australia.

Mr Crowley was previously deputy principal at Trinity College in Colac. He will take on the position from the beginning of 2015.

St Patrick's College board chairman, Andrew Byrne said Mr Crowley's leadership at Marian College had resulted in dramatic improvement in its academic achievements.

"Marian College has undergone an exciting building program over the five years of John's tenure, including the construction of a gymnasium and multi-purpose centre, a trade training centre and the acquisition of adjacent land," Mr Byrne said.

"John has been innovative in his direction for the school in areas such as technology, curriculum planning and student motivation and engagement."

Mr Crowley said he wanted to work at a school that carries that Edmund Rice tradition, having worked at schools in the group before.

"The Edmund Rice tradition calls all members of the community to be inclusive, compassionate and work for justice for all," Mr Crowley said.

Mr Crowley taught humanities, music and religious education before moving into education leadership about one decade ago.

EREA executive director, Wayne Tinsey said Mr Crowley was a very experienced leader in Catholic education in the Ballarat diocese.

Mr Tinsey said he was the former Principals Association of Victorian Catholic Secondary Schools chairman, a life member of the National Excellence in Teaching Awards Foundation and an active member of the St Columba's Parish, Ballarat North.

"On behalf of all members of the Edmund Rice Education Australia community, I warmly congratulate John on this significant appointment and we look forward to welcoming John and his family into the St Patrick's College community later in the year," Mr Tinsey said.