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 to Toormina Public School
As Relieving 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 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
Relieving Principal
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.
Mrs Alana Benfield
Assistant Principal
1/2 Blue
Mrs Tennille Lulham
Relieving Assistant Principal
5/6 Green
Mr Craig Simpson
Relieving AP Curriculum & Instruction
Ms Kirsty Duck
Relieving Assistant Principal Wellbeing
K-6 Gold
Mrs Erin West
Relieving AP Curriculum & Instruction
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.
Baldeep Gill
K Red
Summalee Kennedy
1/2 Yellow
Bryana Tzannes
3/4 Purple
Christopher Sharkey
3/4 Orange
Mitchell Nugent
5/6 Aqua
Danielle Craddock
5/6 Violet
Opportunity Class
Meredith Sawtell
RFF Teacher
Noah Reardon
RFF Teacher
Denise Dodd
Hub & Spoke Teacher
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, Counselling 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.
Penny Ward
Assistant Principal Hearing
Fiona Shaw
Itinerant Support Teacher - Hearing
Tracey Adendorff
Senior Psychologist Education
Samantha Thorpe
Clinical Psychologist
Guy Porter
School Counsellor
Jasmine Sykes
Wellbeing Officer
Yasmeen Desjardins
EALD teacher
Tara Partridge
Learning and Support teacher
Brendan Foote
School Learning Support Officer
Kay Sheaves
School Learning Support Officer
Kathryn McDermott
School Learning Support Officer
Colleen Kitchener
School Learning Support Officer
Kate Howarth
School Learning Support Officer
Tori Jeffery
School Learning Support Officer
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.
Janelle Bailey
School Administrative Manager
Belinda Hayes
School Administrative Officer
Paul Carney
General Assistant
Jenny Hudson
Canteen Supervisor
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.