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

“I’m excited to welcome you to our school, where we create a supportive environment for every child to thrive. We value respect, curiosity and teamwork.

We’re proud of our dedicated staff and strong partnerships with families. Together, we ensure students feel valued and inspired to learn.

I invite you to explore our website to discover what makes our school special. We look forward to welcoming you into our community.”

Karen Wardlaw

Principal of Umina Beach Public School

Our school leaders

Our school leaders, including our principal, guide and support teachers and students to achieve their very best. Our leaders value and model excellence, respect and responsibility within a culture of high trust and support, helping to maintain a school culture where every child is supported to thrive, learn and grow.

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.

Early Stage 1
  • Sarah Honeyman, Kindergarten
  • Gayle Charles, Kindergarten
  • Mel Deas, Kindergarten
  • Liza Moulton, Kindergarten
  • Renee Pallas, Kindergarten (Fri)
Stage 1
  • Gavin Bradley, Year 1
  • Nicole Cowley, Year 1
  • Sarah Fletcher, Year 1
  • Madeleine Hurst, Year 1
  • Jo Crosland, Year 2
  • Susie Downie, Year 2 (Fri)
  • Krystle Ragen, Year 2 (Mon-Wed)
  • Sarah McArthur, Year 2 (Thur-Fri)
  • Elizabeth McLean, Year 2 (Mon-Tues)
  • Lisa Aldrich, Year 2 (Wed-Fri)
  • Cate Ruzek, Year 2
Stage 2
  • Angela Ainsworth, Year 3
  • Caroline Pope, Year 3
  • Amanda Allan, Year 3/4
  • Gary Jones, Year 4
Stage 3
  • Angela Ainsworth, Year 3
  • Caroline Pope, Year 3
  • Amanda Allan, Year 3/4
  • Gary Jones, Year 4
  • Brooke Martin, Year 4
  • Heidi Young, Year 4 (Mon)
  • Amanda Rutherford, Year 4
  • Denisha Pehyle, Year 4 (Fri)
  • Dave Jackson, Year 5
  • Colleen White, Year 5
  • Jess Sayer, Year 5 (Thurs-Fri)
  • Madi Baharoglu , Year 5 (Mon-Wed, Fri)
  • Amy Cash, Year 6
  • Jacob Butler, Year 6
  • Karen Cowan, Year 6
Our non-classroom based teaching staff
  • Lisa Aldrich, RFF
  • Heidi Young, RFF
  • Laura Vella, RFF
  • Renee Pallas, RFF
  • Rozana Gonzales, RFF, EAL/D, ARCO
  • Julia Morgan, Aboriginal Education Resource Teacher (AERT)
  • Renee Noakes, Learning and Support Teacher (LaST)
  • Deb Hughes, Small Group Tuition Support
  • Skye Matthews, School Counsellor
  • Montana Woods, DGO

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.

Contact our school to learn about our amazing staff team

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.

Our wellbeing and support staff
  • Skye Matthews, School Counsellor

  • Montana Woods, DGO

  • Rozana Gonzales, EAL/D, ARCO

  • Julia Morgan, Aboriginal Education Resource Teacher (AERT)

  • Renee Noakes, Learning and Support Teacher (LaST)

  • Deb Hughes, Small Group Tuition Support

  • Denise Da Silva, SLSO

    Julie Djuricin, SLSO

    Cathy Hannan, SLSO

    Sue Frith, SLSO

    Jayde Payne, SLSO

    Susie Westlake, SLSO

    Melanie Sadovy, SLSO

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.

Our administrative and operations staff
  • Samantha Wheatley, Business Manager
  • Carla Webb, SAM/SAO
  • Deb Tyso, SAO
  • Gina Kalaizis, SAO
  • Sarah Fitzimmons SAO
  • Linda Johnson SAO

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

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.