Our principal and staff
Our school team is at the heart of Toormina. We are committed to knowing every child, celebrating their strengths and supporting them to learn, grow and feel a true sense of belonging.
Together, our dedicated teachers, support staff and families create a warm and inclusive environment where every child is encouraged, supported and given every opportunity to thrive.
Welcome to Toormina Public School
As Principal, I’m proud to lead this vibrant and caring community, well known for achievements in academics, sport, and cultural activities. At Toormina Public School, we nurture a supportive and inclusive environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
We value respect, curiosity, and teamwork, and are proud of our dedicated staff and strong partnerships with families and the wider community. Our focus on explicit teaching and Inspire – High potential and gifted education (HPGE) ensures every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
What makes Toormina Public truly special is the genuine care and collaboration between passionate educators, amazing students, supportive families, and our wonderful community. Together, we create an engaging learning environment where every student feels valued and inspired.
I warmly invite you to explore our website. If you’d like to learn more about our school, please contact our office to arrange a visit. I look forward to personally welcoming you and showing you around our nurturing and inclusive school, and discussing how we can support your child’s learning journey - together.
Mr Paul Macpherson
Principal
Our Leadership Team
The leadership team at Toormina Public School provides strong, supportive leadership to ensure the best possible outcomes for our students. Working closely with staff, students and families, our executive team leads with a shared commitment to high expectations, collaboration and wellbeing. Together, they guide teaching and learning across the school, support staff professional growth, and foster a positive, inclusive school culture where every child is known, valued and cared for.
- Paul Macpherson, Principal
- Alana Benfield, Assistant Principal
- Craig Simpson, APC&I (Relieving)
- Mitch Nugent, APC&I 0.2 (Relieving)
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. They build relationships, inspire curiosity, and create a safe and engaging learning environment where every child can grow and succeed. Their expertise, dedication, and passion are key to helping each student develop skills, confidence, and a love of learning.
- Meredith Sawtell, Kindergarten
- Alana Benfield, Stage 1
- Chris Sharkey, Stage 1
- Bryana Tzannes, Stage 2
- Danielle Craddock, Stage 2
- Roy Mitchell, Stage 2
- Mitch Nugent, Stage 3
- Shannon Gregory, Stage 3
- Tennille Lulham, Stage 3 (Opportunity Class)
- Apple Hitti, Stage 3 (Opportunity Class)
- Kirsty Duck, K-6 (Multi Category Class)
- Baldeep Pade, Learning and Support Teacher
- Summa-Lee Kennedt, RFF Teacher CAPA
- Tara Partridge, Small Group Tuition Teacher
- Denise Dodd, Hub and Spoke Teacher
- Yasmeen Desjardins, EAL/D Teacher
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, Counselling and support staff
Our wellbeing and support team is here to ensure every child feels safe, supported and ready to learn. Working closely with teachers and families, we respond to each child’s individual strengths and needs, providing the right support to help them participate, belong and thrive at school.
- Kathryn McDermott, SLSO
- Aunty Colleen Kitchner, SLSO
- Kate Howarth, SLSO
- Brendan Foote, SLSO
- Tori Jeffery, SLSO
- Kay Sheaves, SLSO
- Penny Ward, Assistant Principal - Hearing
- Lauren Hodge, Itinerant Support Teacher
- Fiona Shaw, Itinerant Support Teacher
- Simone Watson, Itinerant Support Teacher
- Anna Fisher, SLSO Hearing Support
- Tahlee Miller, SLSO Hearing Support
- Tracey Adendorff, Senior Psychologist, Education
- Meg Saunders, Registered Psychologist
- Guy Porter, School Counsellor
- Rhonda Klenk, WHIN
- Jasmine Sykes, Wellbeing Offcer
Administrative and operations staff
Our administration and operations team are the friendly faces behind the scenes at Toormina. From welcoming families at the front office to caring for our school grounds, they work every day to support our students, staff and community and help make Toormina a wonderful place to belong.
- Janelle Bailey, School Administration Manager
- Belinda Hayes, School Administrationg Officer
- Paul Carney, General Assistant
- Jenny Hudson, Canteen Manager
- Noelene Bell, ISS School Cleaning
- Justin Wilson ISS School Cleaning
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.