How long have you been working in education?
I’ve been part of the Good Shepherd community since 2021, but my journey in education started in 1998. Over the past 28 years I have had the opportunity to work across two states, teaching students from Foundation right through to Year 9, across all curriculum areas and working in a wide range of Lutheran schools, from small country towns to large metropolitan areas.
What will people find you doing when you’re not at school?
Singing, going for walks and spending time with my two boys and watching the cricket together.
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
Both! But I do prefer early.
What do you love about being principal of Good Shepherd Para Vista?
Watching the children and staff learn and grow, the opportunities to share our faith, celebrating milestones as a community and working closely with families to support their children to become the wonderful people God made them to be.
What is something your students have taught you over the years?
That it’s important for us to stop and appreciate the wonder of the world around us.
What advice would you give to families navigating the school years?
Life can be tricky for us as adults, and sometimes we forget that it can feel just as tricky for our children. They’re still learning how to navigate friendships, challenges, disappointments and all the ups and downs that come with growing up. My advice to families would be to take the time to listen, support and guide your children through those moments.
As parents it’s natural to want to step in and fix things, but some of the most valuable learning happens when children are given the space to work through the hard things themselves. That doesn’t mean leaving them to do it alone, it means being in their corner, encouraging them and helping them build the confidence and resilience to keep going. When challenges come and when they make mistakes, providing the support for our children to learn and grow is one of the greatest gifts we can give them.
Relationships and community are at the heart of Good Shepherd. Why is this so important to you personally?
Because connection is so important, it creates a genuine sense of belonging. I’m passionate about building strong relationships and a thriving community because they are the heart of a school where every child and every family feel known, supported, valued and that they truly belong.
Come and have a chat with me at our Open Day and discover what makes Good Shepherd Lutheran School Para Vista such a special place to learn and grow.
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