Our principal and staff
Our school team is committed to every student’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging. We work together to create a supportive and inclusive school where every child is set up for success.
Welcome from our principal
Welcome to Manilla Central School,
Manilla Central School places the highest priorities on student opportunities, achievement and wellbeing.
Our School is a unique school in a number of ways. It is one of three schools in the state that is a split site Central school, which means there is a separate Primary and Secondary Campus located 500m apart. However there are many whole school events and programs. As a K to 12 school, Manilla offers students the opportunity to complete their entire school education in their local community. The school has strong relationships with community and families and caters for the induvial learning needs of students very effectively.
A whole school literacy program was implemented several years ago with professional learning provided to staff which has changed the culture of the school and equipped students with skills and the resilience to attempt written tasks. Student outcomes have improved and a numeracy program following the same model commenced last year which is also having an impact. There is also a focus on explicit Quality Teaching. HSC and NAPLAN result have been on an upward trend for the last 3 years due to these initiatives.
School and community values are reinforced through a system of Pastoral care and Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) and Zones of Regulations programs.
The school prides itself on the success of transitioning students into post schools pathways of their choosing, be that employment, TAFE or University.
Given the smaller setting, quality established programs, and strong community standing I can honestly say every student at Manilla Central School is known, valued and cared for.
Shane Kelly, Principal of Manilla Central School
Our school leaders
Our school leaders, including our principal, guide teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.
Ariana Connors, Deputy Principal (Rel.)
Secondary Campus
Helen Alston, Assistant Principal Curriculum & Instruction
Primary Campus
Heidi Hawley, Assistant Principal (Rel.)
Primary Campus
Tanya MacDonald, Assistant Principal Curriculum & Instruction
Primary Campus
Dale Scott, Assistant Principal
Primary Campus
Justin Connors, Head Teacher Wellbeing
Secondary Campus
Lara Nielsen, Head Teacher Administration (Rel.)
Secondary Campus
Kylie Taber, Head Teacher Learning & Support (Rel.)
Secondary Campus
Michael Van Doesburg, Head Teacher Secondary Studies (Rel.)
Secondary Campus
Our teaching staff
Your child’s school experience is shaped by the people around them. Our teachers bring experience, care and a passion for learning to every lesson. With a focus on success, they help every child reach their full potential.
PRIMARY TEACHING STAFF
- Helen ALSTON | K/1 Wattle
- Leanne HOLZIGAL | S1 Banksia
- Andrew WARD | S2 Grevillea
- Paul BOWD | S3 Eucalypt
- Heidi HAWLEY & Dale SCOTT | S3 Waratah
- Shanna BRINKLEY
- Megan TURNER | LaST
- Gabby SAUER | Library
- Nola ELLIOTT
- Bill O’NEILL | Band
SECONDARY TEACHING STAFF
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Ariana CONNORS | Science, Biology & Chemistry
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Justin CONNORS | Agriculture & Primary Industries
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Melissa EAGLES | Mathematics & Investigating Science
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Rachael FERGUSON
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James GALLOWAY | Visual Arts & Visual Design
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Athena GERAKITEYS | PDHPE, PASS & Human Movement and Science
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Dimitria GOUVOUSSIS
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Buffy HEDGER | Casual
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Danielle JONES | Hospitality, Food Technology & Careers
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Elizabeth LYNCH | LaST, English & HSIE
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Lara NIELSEN | Science, Computers & Business Studies
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Alyssa NOTT
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Matthew PARNELL | Music
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Timothy ROWE | English & HSIE
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David SAUNDERS
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Mitchell SMITH | Mathematics
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Michael VAN DOESBURG | Industrial Arts
Contact our school to learn about our wellbeing and support staff
Our teachers make the difference
Committed to your child’s success
Our teachers ensure every student can thrive. They use proven ways to teach and tailor learning support for their students
Expert, connected and accredited
Our teachers are part of a strong education network. They may hold advanced accreditation. This ensuring high-quality teaching for your child.
Teachers who never stop learning
Our teachers are lifelong learners. They stay current through regular training and keep improving how they teach students.
Teacher–family partnerships
Our teachers build trust through clear communication. Our families know that their child has support and is ready to learn.
Wellbeing and support staff
Our wellbeing and support staff guide student wellbeing, learning needs and inclusion. They work with teachers to make personalised adjustments. This means each child can take part fully in school life. We make our school welcoming and accessible to every child.
HEAD TEACHER WELLBEING
- Justin Connors
ABORIGINAL EDUCATION OFFICER
- Kristy Cooke
SCHOOL SUPPORT OFFICER
- Isobel Kemp | Secondary
- Sharon Tonkin | Primary
SCHOOL COUNSELLOR
- Amy Pursehouse | Monday & Tuesday
SCHOOL CHAPLAIN
- Darrel Mole | Wednesday & Thursday
Contact our school to learn about our wellbeing and support staff
Administrative and operations staff
Our administrative and operations staff keep our school running smoothly. They support students, teachers and families every day. You can find them in our front office or on the school grounds.
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER
- Teena KELLY
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
- Danielle BURNS
- Karen EDWARDS | Library Assistant
- Sarah FREEMAN | WHS
- Jeanette GARNSEY
- Jodi GOMAN | Archives & NESA
- Josie GOMAN | Food Tech. Assistant
- Susan JACKSON | Science Assistant
- Amber KENAFICK | SaRP, NESA & Food Tech. Assistant
- Teressa LOVEGROVE | Library Assistant
- Tammy STACKMAN
SCHOOL LEARNING SUPPORT OFFICER
- Jennene BEALE
- Richard BELL
- John CALOKERINOS
- Shona DALEY
- Mirian FROST
- Claudia KENNIFF
- Taylor LOVEGROVE
- Jacqui MARTIN
- Libby MCNEILL
- Brooke NORTHEY
- Amanda ORCHARD
- Jack PARKER
- Taylor PETTIT
- Nicole TODD
- Hayley WALTON
- Finlay WHITNEY
TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT OFFICER
- Mark LEACH
GENERAL ASSISTANT
- Gavin CAMPBELL
- Shannon SWANTON
FARM ASSISTANT
- Tom (Julian) PRIEST
Contact our school to learn about our administrative and operations staff
Have a question for our principal or teachers?
Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.
Additional learning support
Find out how we support students with disability or additional learning needs.
Stories and highlights
Hear about stories, wins and proud moments from our staff and students.