Business Council of Victoria policy director Patrick Coleman stepped in as headmaster last Wednesday as part of the Principal for a Day program.

Mr Coleman was treated to a day of activities and a student-run forum.

Ms Dowsley joined principals across the state in taking advantage of the annual program designed to enhance interaction between schools and businesses.

"For us, it's about gaining an understanding of what businesses are looking for in education. It's also an opportunity to strengthen relationships," she said.

Mr Coleman said the program also provided an opportunity to learn more about the key issues facing schools.

"Initially, it's going to be a one-day program, which will help us work out if there are areas we can continue to share information on."

He said the experience would help him understand the success the school had had with its curriculum.

"What we would look to get out of it is to learn from where their [St Albans College] success comes from and take that model to other areas to find similar success. We're very keen to improve the participation levels of students throughout the community, whether that's in education or jobs."

Ms Dowsley said students appreciated the opportunity for their voices to be heard and hoped the day would be the start of an ongoing association. "It was great for Patrick to attend and see how students are leading by running forums and getting involved"

Mr Coleman said he was looking to develop a mentoring program in which businesses could offer practical advice to students making the transition as school leavers.

"Improving school completion rates is our goal, and changing the perception that it's not just a place to learn but as a pathway to get to where you want to be."

Education Minister Bronwyn Pike also took part in this year's Principal for a Day program. She said 90per cent of business leaders and celebrities who took part in previous programs remained in contact with their school.

Other well-known 'principals' have included celebrity chef Gabriel Gate, at Footscray City College, and television gardener Vasili Kanidiadis at Pascoe Vale North Primary School.