Port Staff

Barry Finch OAM

Principal
barry@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Barry Finch and I have been working in the education sector for the past 30 years. My teaching career started in the Kimberley, in a remote Indigenous junior high school. From that experience, and a few short stints in the mainstream education sector, I realised that working in a small school was where I belonged and that is where I have since stayed.
I have been at Port School since 2001, the first 10 years as workshop teacher, and I have been Principal since 2010.  My journey at Port has been quite amazing. I have worked with some incredibly resilient young people as well as a group of dedicated and extremely talented staff. All in all Port is an awesome community that I still look forward to coming to every day.

Mike Gilbert

Deputy Principal
mike@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Mike Gilbert and I started at Port in 2010 and have been a Teacher, Special Projects Coordinator and now Deputy Principal. I have been in education, training, social inclusion and crime reduction roles for over 25 years, with periods in the consulting and corporates worlds. I am family orientated with a wife and 2 children, am active in my community with organisations such as Rotary and Apex and have been involved in many fundraising campaigns and projects over the last 30 years. I am a board member of Mindarie Senior College, Honorary Life Member of Klang Apex Club and currently a judge for the Western Australian Department of Fire and Emergency Services Awards. I like to bring my connections, stakeholder relationships and life experiences to Port and turn them into beneficial programs, new business development ideas, activities and experiences that students can take away with them. This includes our annual Malaysia excursion, our international aid project. I am very proud to be part of an incredibly diverse team that offers our students every opportunity to have educational and life success.

Joy Cromwell

Joint Head of Senior School, Teacher
Member of the Port School Leadership Team
joy@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Joy Cromwell and I have lived and worked for many years in the Fremantle area. When my daughter began her school career I decided to return to school also and study education and literature. I received my degrees in English and Secondary Education at Murdoch University and my first teaching job was at South Fremantle Senior High School, where I was offered a full-time position and remained there until 2013. During my time there I was fortunate enough to be afforded the experience of combining my passions: teaching literature, working with ”at risk youth” and running the Indigenous Tutoring Assistant Scheme and Follow the Dream programs. Although I loved my time at South I was very excited when the English teaching role opened up here at Port and was very happy when Barry offered me the position! I work with amazing people and what we offer our students goes far beyond the realm of standard academic and non-academic education. Port has grown in many amazing ways since my first days here and the changes and growth ensures our students have access to a dynamic and all encompassing educational experience.

Molly Donaldson

Head of Student Support Services & Counsellor
Member of the Port School Leadership Team
molly@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Molly Donaldson and I have been a counsellor at Port School since 2017. I am originally from the US and in 2015 graduated with a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology, with a Concentration in Somatic Psychology. I have been working with adolescents for six years and look forward to continuing my commitment to helping teens during a challenging period in their life. I am endlessly impressed with the professionalism and empathetic engagement of my colleagues at Port School and feel lucky to be a member of such an accomplished staff.

Raf Fecondi

Joint Head of Senior School, Teacher
Member of the Port School Leadership Team
raf@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Raf Fecondi and my roles at Port include co-managing the Senior School, and running HASS classes. I first became a teacher when I lived in England, where I worked as a Head of Department and Head of Faculty, as well as a Pastoral Care Leader. When I moved to Australia I worked as the Head of the Philosophy and Ethics Department at Hale School, where I was also a Head of House. I later moved to Wesley College, where I took on the roles of Head of Department, Director of Pastoral Care and Student Services and Acting Head of Senior School. I moved to Port School because I wanted to return to my core passion of working with engaging students outside of the mainstream education sector. I am very glad I made this move, as I love my job and no two days are ever the same!

Michelle Forsyth

Young Parent Centre Manager
Member of the Port School Leadership Team
youngparentcentre@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Michelle Forsyth and I am the Manager of the Young Parent Centre (YPC). I have been at Port School since 2016, having previously coordinated teen parenting programs at both Uniting Care West and Gilmore College. I began my career in banking and finance and then became an Education Assistant before joining Port School where I work with the young mums. My main role is to support and enhance the young mums parenting skills and to assist them to achieve educational outcomes. I enjoy my role immensely and love working with the wonderful staff, mums and bubs in the YPC and the Early Learning Centre.

Denise Hardie

Training & Development Manager
Member of the Port School Leadership Team
denise@portschool.wa.edu.au

My connection to Port started in 2017 when I first visited the school as part of my research into CARE schools. I was so impressed with what I saw that it started a long relationship with Barry and the team.
As a qualified youth worker, trainer and assessor and believe it or not Clinical Hypnotherapist (no turning people into chickens here!) and also soon to be qualified Counsellor, I have over 20 years’ experience working with at-risk young people from all walks of life.
I have a strong Social Justice and Community Services background and have worked in Youth Justice, Aboriginal training, as a TAFE lecturer, Drug and Alcohol services, correctional facilities and Domestic Violence programs.
I finally joined Port in 2021. I feel very privileged to be working amongst such dedicated and talented colleagues, who are committed to realising the potential in every young person. I look forward to contributing my skills and knowledge to further opportunities for our students.

Jane Hawdon

Head of Outreach Program, Teacher
Member of the Port School Leadership Team
jane@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Jane Hawdon and I have been teaching for over 30 years in a variety of different educational environments and countries including Spain, Portugal and USA. My journey as an educator began teaching surf lifesaving and English as a Second Language. I later graduated as a teacher of Special Education and LoTE. I have always enjoyed working with adolescents and creating innovative fun ways to learn. I’m passionate about culture, food and language and my double major in Anthropology and Linguistics has given me a foundation to explore the world through a variety of different lenses.

I initially came to Port as Principal in 2000 from Cocos Island, and after three years was offered an Academic Fellowship at ECU lecturing in the School of Education, specifically Behaviour Support. I then spent ten years teaching for Green Dot Charter Schools in Los Angeles and joined in 2009 Intensive Partnerships for Effective Teaching initiative, a $575 million initiative funded by the Bill and Belinda Gates Foundation. The “College Ready Promise” focused on students who were undocumented and came from low socio-economic back grounds. The aim was to improve student educational achievement so they could access a college education.

In 2016 I was excited to return to Port as Outreach Coordinator.  The program over the last seven years has grown significantly, and is now a team of six working with over thirty students a year. I am always looking for innovative ways to engage our most marginalised youth and help them to reach their life goals.

Matt Hopkins

Head of Middle School, Teacher
Member of the Port School Leadership Team
matt@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Matt Hopkins and I am a passionate and dedicated teacher, and have worked in primary and secondary schools in WA and NSW for over 15 years. In that time I have taught in a range of schools from top achieving NAPLAN schools through to those with struggling students as well as ESL backgrounds. I am particularly passionate about literacy and numeracy and have a strong belief that all kids deserve the same educational chances, despite the disadvantage they may face. I love my role at Port Middle School where I get to work with dynamic, enthusiastic and engaging staff and students and help them achieve their best.

Nicole Hunt

Early Learning Centre Manager
Member of the Port School Leadership Team
earlylearningcentre@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Nicole Hunt, and I am the manager of Port Early Learning Centre. I bring with me more than 20 years of experience working in early childhood, business management, executive leadership and strategic planning. I have a strong sense of community and particular passion for programs and change management initiatives, that positively impact childhood outcomes and families of children in the community. A key driver for me in the work that I do is building relationships, relationships are the starting point to everything. I believe to create change, inspire others, challenge, and continue enriching each aspect of our work with children, families, educators and the community, that relationships are critical.

Recognising how critical the early years are for children’s development, I like to take a holistic approach to Early Years, to better support the education and wellbeing of children. I am a passionate advocate for early intervention and prevention programs related to childhood development, education and care for children facing adversity, and their families. This involves creating a space where the children and families feel valued and respected, and have a strong sense of self and belonging.

Nolene Martin

Business Manager
Member of the Port School Leadership Team
nolene@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Nolene Martin and my Port School journey began in 2015, when I joined Barry and his team as Business Manager. I was born and raised in the Fremantle area and completed my studies at UWA, with a goal to follow a career in medical research. I had however always had an overwhelming urge to travel and to experience other countries and cultures. This urge ultimately took me off my planned path and led me, post-study, on a 25-year plus overseas adventure, during which I lived and worked in a number of countries.  Travel had always been my passion, and I was most fortunate to be able to turn this into my career, working for many years in the Global Travel Industry in roles including Marketing, Product Development, Business and Relationship Management.  Living abroad in different countries and cultures made be acutely aware of how diverse communities can be and how the needs of individuals can differ.
No two days are ever the same here at Port. It remains my aim, together with my team of incredibly dedicated staff, to ensure a seamless behind-the-scenes operation for all staff, students and the greater school community.

Louise Adger

Middle School, Teacher
louisea@portschool.wa.edu.au

Adrian Boyling

Workshop, Trainer
adrian@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Adrian Boyling and I joined Port School in Term 2 2023. Growing up in the Swan Valley and later living in the southwest of WA gave me a great connection to nature and the forestry industry which evolved into me becoming a fine furniture designer and maker. The experiences I have had throughout my working career such as Furniture Design, Cabinet Making, Carpentry, Joinery, Computer Design, and Marine Fit-Out, have brought me to this pivotal time in my life where I would like to share my skill with others, creating opportunities for students to be creative, while learning valuable life skills in an environment where they feel safe and encouraged. I have had many opportunities in my life, such as owning my own business where I created custom design furniture and souvenirs made from solid timber, all while understanding how to run a small business. Being foreman at Boranup Gallery enabled me to become inspired in design, creating artistic pieces and assisting apprentices to reach their full potential. For the last 17 years, I have been teaching school students, trainees, and apprentices at TAFE in Furniture Making, Cabinet Making. I am excited to pass on my experience to our youth by promoting opportunities, fostering learning and providing valuable life skills to see that ‘light bulb moment’.

Josh Brun

Mobile Classroom Program, Teacher
joshua@portschool.wa.edu.au

Belinda Carcione

Outreach Program,  Student Support
belinda@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Belinda Carcione and I found my passion of working with Youth at Risk while working with the Department of Communities. As a Youth and Family Support Worker I worked with families in times of need.  In this role I have supported young people to navigate the juvenile justice system and linked them with other agencies and services; always working closely with schools to re-engage young people in education.
I am a member of the Port Outreach Team, helping disengaged students to re-engage in education, making sure they are safe, healthy and that their needs are being met. I am tenacious and never give up on my students. My objective is always to support them to engage in school.

Vickie Cawthray

Finance Officer
vickie@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Vickie Cawthray and I joined Port School in May 2021.  I am originally from NSW and after backpacking in my 20’s I ended up settling in Perth. I have been working as a Bookkeeper for over 20 years, mainly in the pearl, hospitality, medical and the construction industries.
I am very grateful to be part of such a great team and hope to help make the back office run smoothly, so they can focus all their energy into the engagement and education of our students.

Stephanie Clift

Student Support
stephc@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Stephanie Clift and my journey to Port began when I was studying my Certificate IV in Youth Work. Port gave me the opportunity to complete the required work experience for the course and after completion, I was offered a position. I have been a member of the Port School team since 2019, and my role is to support students in the classroom and to encourage successful engagement and learning.

Dennis Colbung

Mobile Classroom Program, Student Support
dennis@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Dennis Colbung. I am very pleased to be working at Port School. I am a young Noongar man from the Great Southern region who grew up on the streets of Tambellup.
I have a large family. I graduated from High School in 2005. My passion is working with youth. I have the heart and desire to give everything I have to achieve persistent and positive results.
I have worked in various roles since leaving High School ranging from working in Art Galleries, Legal, Youth and Mining roles. I have very good connection with the community,  stretching from the South West of Western Australia through to the Perth Metropolitan area. I am able to relate to the youth of Port due to my life and job experiences.
Since being at Port I have gained a very close connection to most of the student.  I will endeavour to continue to be a positive role model, one whom students of Port can lean on. I would like to thank Port School for allowing me to be a part of the amazing team.

Temeley Crawford

Student Support
temeley@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Temeley Crawford, and I joined Port School in Term 3 of 2022, working as student support. I attended TAFE, completing my Community Services Certificates II and III. I then proceeded to gain my Youth Work Certificate IV and completed my work experience at Port. The school offered me the opportunity to work offering student support in the Middle School. I feel privileged to be able to support the students on their journey to the Senior School by encouraging the Port School Values of Diversity, Growth, Empowerment and Community whilst helping them see and reach their potential.

Stephanie Davie

Early Learning Centre, Cook / Food Coordinator
stephanie@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Stephanie Davie and I joined the Port Early Learning Centre in 2021. I started working in hospitality in 2011. I completed my apprenticeship and became a chef in 2015, going on to run several different cafes. When I started by own family I also began my journey of  working in early learning centres, ensuring children get the best possible nutrition.

Steph Daniell

Student Support
steph@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Stephanie Daniell. I have been working at Port School since 2015. I spent the majority of my teaching career at inner city secondary schools in the UK. After emigrating in 2004, I settled in Perth.
My career in Australia has been spent in the vocational sector, mostly training and mentoring in the Apprenticeship / Traineeship field. I was fortunate to have specialist roles liaising with WA Schools and Corrective Services, which enabled me to travel across the state.
Secondary school teaching has always been my passion though, so when I came to Port it felt like ‘home’. I knew there was opportunity to expand possibilities for our students. We could encourage their aspiration and achievement in pathways beyond the classroom.
Port has most recently introduced the delivery of a synthetic phonics program for selected students. The aim of this Corrective Reading program is to progress their reading skills towards proficiency. This has significant positive impact on literacy skills more broadly. I have moved out of my Vocational Teacher role after over 5 years and I’m excited to now be taking up the opportunity to deliver the this new program.

Leonie Delaney

Early Learning Centre, Educator
leonie@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Leonie and I joined the Port Early Learning Centre in  February 2024. I am in my 30th year of the Early Childhood Education and Care sector, having worked as an educator, leader, manager and mentor. I have travelled the world, lived in remote and regional areas and I am a mother. These things have all played a part in enhancing my knowledge in this field. The learning however never stops.

I am a big advocate of child safety and development, and of high standard quality care being provided. The foundations built in the early years through connections and relationships are imperative to ensure the thriving development of our future generations, and it is a privilege to be a part of this. I have a passion for mentoring and inspiring future educators, ensuring they have the tools to continue to offer quality care for many years to come.

Dan Duggan

Student Support
dan@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Dan Duggan. I am a professional artist and have worked for over 20-years as a practitioner and youth mentor for private, commercial and community clients on a range of diverse projects from digital design to large-scale public art installations.
I completed a Diploma of Graphic Design in 1994, and went on to launch my own creative arts business, with a focus on community mural projects as a way of sharing his passion and enthusiasm for street art with a wider audience. Working mainly with aerosols, I started to see that this was a great way to engage young people with their community and to get them excited about making art and seeing it as another language with which to express themselves positively.
My work over the past 20-years has mainly been in connection with young people, as a mentor, teacher and role model in both metropolitan and regional areas, which is the path that has lead me to work at Port School.
I am passionate about education, about a fair go for all and about supporting young people to explore their own interests to reach their full potential. I call upon my skills and many years of experience as an artist, musician and positive role model to show that life can lead us along many roads to get us where we want to be.

Kate Dunn

Program Coordinator
kate@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Kate Dunn and I have worked in education for 18 years. During that time I have had the opportunity to work across all levels, primary, secondary and tertiary. I started as a Media, English and LOTE teacher and then gained my TESOL qualification so I could work with international and refugee students in RTO’s and non-for-profit organisations. I did a stint overseas in the Middle East and then returned to Perth to complete two masters degrees, one in Education Policy and the other in Alternative Education Leadership and Management. Most recently I come to Port from the Department of Justice, where I was the Education Manager in a correctional environment. I am looking forward to putting my extensive and varied experience into my work at Port School.

Chelsea Eastwood

Young Parent Centre, Student Support
chelsea@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Chelsea Eastwood and I am the Education Assistant in the Young Parent Centre. My career started at 19, working as an Education Assistant at Hamilton Senior High School, and I joined the Port School team in 2017. My main role is to engage the young mums in their education and to provide support with their parenting in a supportive and holistic environment. I enjoy my job, as I get to watch the young mums grow in their confidence, and their babies reach their developmental milestones.

Tristan Eastwood

Student Support
tristan@portschool.wa.edu.au

G’day, My name is Tristan Eastwood. I have been a Youth Worker at Port School since 2016. My journey in supporting young people began soon after leaving high school. Firstly as a volunteer in a church youth group, followed by coordinating a primary school mentoring program in seven schools within the Fremantle/Cockburn area, High School Chaplain, Youth Diversion Officer with the City of Cockburn and now Port School.
My work at Port includes working on the Outreach and Outdoor Ed programs, Fitness Centre Trainer, “Keys4Life” facilitator and general student support and advocacy. Through all this I strive to inspire the students to have hope and determination to live out their potential.

Skyla Edgar

Early Learning Centre, Educator
skyla@portschool.wa.edu.au

Hi, I’m Skyla, an early childhood educator at Port’s Early Learning Centre and I joined the team in April 2024. I’m currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Primary Education, driven by my passion for the development of young children. I strongly believe in the power of learning through play and taking an holistic approach to learning.

As a dedicated student specialising in early childhood and primary teaching, I’m committed to shaping the future of young learners. I thrive on creating engaging and inclusive classroom environments embedded in educational theory and hands-on learning experiences. My journey is marked by ongoing professional development and a genuine dedication to each child’s success.

I aim to positively impact the educational journey of every child I teach, ensuring they receive the care and support they need to flourish.

Ellena Frisina

RTO Administrator & Compliance Officer
ellena@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Ellena Frisina and I am the Port RTO Compliance Officer and trainer. I have been working in the vocational education sector for the past 13 years as a trainer, assessor and instructional designer.  Port School has given me the opportunity to combine my interest and experience in VET compliance, with the opportunity to assist students to work towards their academic goals.  I look forward to working with the amazing staff and students each day.

Dionne Garvey

Middle & Senior School, Teacher
dionne@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Dionne Garvey and I have a Bachelor of Education in Art from Curtin University specialising in Printmaking and Ceramics. Visual Arts education has always been a passion of mine, having worked in a variety of public and independent schools over the past 20 years. I feel very privileged to be a part of the Port School community. Coordinating and running Port’s very successful Visual Arts program is an extremely fulfilling role. In addition to teaching, I have worked in a variety of voluntary organisations such as the Art Education Association of Western Australia. My roles over an extended period included: Vice President, Treasurer, Journal Convenor, Publications and Executive Committee member. I have been a member of the Angelico Exhibition Committee representing Catholic Arts for a period of 19 years, and the judging of last year’s exhibition was a highlight of my time spent in this organisation. I have worked as a consultant for SCASA, assisting with the development of Judging Standards for the most recent curriculum changes in the Arts. I am passionate about continued professional development in my field and working closely with my arts colleagues from all over WA. Educating and inspiring young people to love art and to embrace creativity is my ultimate teaching goal.

Chelsea Hainsworth

Administration Officer
chelseah@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Chelsea Hainsworth and I joined the Port School community in August 2020.  I’m a local Perth girl, and attended Bateman Primary School and Rossmoyne Senior High School.  In 1995, I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Aboriginal and Islander Studies, followed by a Post-Graduate in Human Services and Disability.  After graduation, I moved to London for a couple of years of travel adventures and secured my first Human Services job as a Social Worker for Hackney Social Services, working with clients who were housebound due to a physical disability or substance misuse. On my return to Perth, I worked in employment as a Disability Employment Case Manager, securing employment and offering ongoing training and support for people facing barriers to paid work.  In 2006, I took several years off to stay at home with my two daughters.  In 2012, I attended Murdoch TAFE and re-trained as a dog groomer.  I ran my own business ‘Shaggy 2 Chic Dog Grooming’ for 7 years until I got the calling to return to my original roots of Human Services.  I feel very fortunate to be a part of such an amazing team at Port School.

Rachael Hall

Administration Officer
rachael@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Rachael Hall and I have been working at Port School since 2017. My role varies from general administration to accounts payable and assisting with the smooth running of back office. I enjoy helping students and staff on an as-needed basis.

Maree Harrison

Canteen Coordinator
maree@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Maree Harrison and I am a passionate self-taught cook. I have a background in Laboratory Technology, love the outdoors, camping and spending time with my Family of 5. I started my Port School journey in the Port Early Learning Centre, as Food Coordinator as well as in the Port Young Parents Centre, giving cooking classes. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in both centres, working with the dedicate,  caring staff and interacting with the young Mums and their children.

Once the Port School state-of-the-art café style canteen was completed in 2021, an exciting opportunity arose, and I applied for and was appointed as the Port School Canteen Coordinator. I pride myself on providing nutritious, healthy and delicious food from different cultures, as well as home-style flavours and different food experiences. Options are important to me, ensuring that we cater for individual dietary needs within the School. It is truly amazing seeing the students thrive in the kitchen environment, building confidence, trying new foods and learning important life-long skills.

John Hill

Middle School, Teacher
john@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is John Hill and I joined Port School in 2019. I graduated from university in 1994 with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Philosophy and History. Following this, I worked in various jobs until I discovered a passion for building and restoring stonework. I subsequently juggled my own business working as a stonemason, with being a stay-at -home Dad to two amazing girls. Seeing the role education and fantastic teaching played in their development led me back to university, where I completed a Graduate Diploma of Education. My journey in teaching is only just beginning, but I feel very lucky to be able to learn from both the staff and students at Port School.

Andre Horsley

Maintenance Officer & Groundsperson
andre@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Andre Horsley and my work at Port School includes garden, building and yard care. I started working full-time at Port only in 2018, although the school has however employed my wife and I as cleaning contractors for approximately 17 years. I am a mechanic by trade but have worked in maintenance for the past 8 years and am pleased to be part of the Port School family.

Youngmi Ju

Early Learning Centre, Educator Assistant
youngmi@portschool.wa.edu.au

Hi, my name is Youngmi and I am an Educator Assistant at the Port Early Learning Centre. I started my career in early childhood learning in 2016, and I have been with Port Early Learning Centre since 2020. I have a Certificate III in Early Childhood Learning and a Certificate IV in Community Service. I feel privileged to be part of the children’s learning journey and it gives me much joy and many rewarding moments. The Port Early Learning Centre has a great philosophy and work environment and I am proud to be part of a team offering such great service to families.

Brett Kelly

Young Parent Centre, Teacher
brett@portschool.wa.edu.au

I am a specialist teacher and trainer with over a decade experience in both mainstream and alternative education settings. I am a teacher in the Young Parent Centre at Port School, as well as an extracurricular Music Teacher, balancing my time between the YPC and the music studio. I have experience in delivering foundational subjects as well as championing the creative arts: music, art, animation, media and theatre. I have also developed music, film, and art projects for the Starlight Children’s Foundation as a Livewire Facilitator. As a hobbyist music producer, I’ve been fortunate enough to release music through various international record labels and I currently volunteer at RTRfm 92.1 as a radio presenter/DJ.

Sam Kerridge

Outreach Program, Teacher
sam@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Sam Kerridge and I have worked in a variety of educational centres for disengaged youth, from Banksia Hill Detention Centre to SMYL College, to Student Services at Fremantle College as well as relief teaching.

My background in Psychology was developed as a supported housing worker in London, England, where I qualified as a counsellor. I then travelled the world for several years as a SCUBA Diving Instructor until I landed on Australian shores and shark attack-affected business. So, I became a First Aid trainer for Red Cross and set up my own training business, while also teaching English as a foreign language at Curtin University. After qualifying as a Teacher, due to my psychology background I naturally migrated to more at-risk students. I joined the Port School Outreach team in early 2022, where I have the opportunity to use all my skills, experiences and qualifications to re-engage students in both education and wellbeing.

Carolyn Korin

Student Support
carolyn@portschool.wa.edu.au

“Every child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be” – Rita Pierson
This is my mantra and my core belief for the last 12 years of working in education as an Education Assistant. I have a Certificate IV in Education Support, Certificate III in Education and Community Services and currently studying a Certificate IV in Youth Work. My career has been predominantly in secondary schools, from mainstream through to Education Support Units and Literacy and Numeracy Programs.
Recently I found Port School. After arriving for an interview with the amazing Principal (Barry) followed by a short tour of the school, I knew instantly that I had found “MY PEOPLE”!! It felt like I had come “home”.

I am truly honoured to be working at such a wonderful school, full of hope, patience and resilience. For the first time in years I feel energised and inspired by the fantastic staff who go above and beyond for all the students, the incredible facilities and students who have found, or are beginning to find their way in the world and for many who are finally able to learn in an environment that caters for their needs for the first time in their life. I try not to skip to work now,  I’m just so excited by each day’s potential!

I am a mum/step mum to 5 young adults/teenagers, who are witty, sarcastic and awesome humans being, who frequently challenge us with their uniqueness! My husband and I, who also works in education, often spend our nights sharing the highs and lows of our working day and ways we can improve our pedagogy.
I love water sports and in summer can be found snorkelling along the beautiful Perth beaches, or off swimming and kayaking with the seals at Penguin Island. We recently bought a bunky caravan and have begun short trips away with just ourselves and our 2 dogs, as our children become more independent. I like to think of myself as creative and artistic but I’m not really.
I look forward to many fulfilling years at Port School, being the best Educator I can be to ensure that all the students with whom I come in to contact with reach their full potential, not only academically, but socially and emotionally.

Jon Kroeck

Outreach Program, Teacher
jon@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Jon Kroeck and I joined the Outreach Team at Port School in early 2022. I have been working as a Youth Worker in Perth for the past three years and as a youth camp leader doing trips around Australia for five years prior to that. I finished a degree in teaching from Humboldt State in California and furthered my studies by completing a Masters in Melbourne in sustainable tourism with a focus on experiential education. I love being able to bring my own experiences to teach youth different ways of learning and to show that not all of us learn in the same ways. We each have our own speeds and walk our individual paths. I look forward to being a part of Port School and excited to learn from such a diverse group of educators, as well as students.

Felicity Moore

Student Support
felicity@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Felicity Moore. I was born in Sydney. My family moved back to WA and the Fremantle area where I lived, attended school and worked. In my early 20’s, I packed my bags for a solo journey and travelled the globe for several years meeting many amazing people, including my future husband. I returned to Perth a little unsettled with my future prospects. After living the high life working in fashion marketing and roaming the globe on private yachts for 5 years, I felt I needed something more fulfilling in my life.
During this time I settled down into married life with the man I had met overseas and had two beautiful boys. I continued to enjoy teaching and studied in Education Support. This gave me an opportunity to work both in Primary and Senior Schools and also teaching LOTE for some time.
I was introduced to the students and team at Port and immediately felt I had finally found home in my working life.  I enjoy and love the fact I’m still learning everyday and most importantly, seeing the students enjoy the classes, learn skills and grow in confidence.  I’m passionate about supporting our students, and completed my Certificate IV in Training and Assessment in 2021. I enjoy passing on many of my life experiences and I’m looking forward to many of our students creating their own wonderful experiences.

Trysh Mourish

Student Support
patrysha@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Trysh Mourish and I am a proud Nyoongar Yorga with strong connections to Yued, Ballardong and Kenang countries. I’ve worked in community services for over 10 years and am passionate about improving career opportunities and outcomes for young people. I completed a double Diploma in Career Development along with a Diploma in Employment Services. My aim is to teach the students the importance of education, self-awareness and perseverance. I believe there are six major values of life; education, adaptability, determination, resilience, respect and honesty.

Tim Murphy

Maintenance Officer
tim@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Tim Murphy and I joined Port School in 2001, when the school building was pretty much an empty shell. Each room had been converted from the original squash courts, and it was my job to make the place look like a school. And it has been growing ever since. Over the years my role has changed and taken shape as mentor, maintenance, building and working in the workshop. What has kept me here for over 20 years is the challenge of making a real difference to our young peoples’ lives, and seeing them take pride in their work and who they are, as well as working alongside a great team of people. Mine is the type of job where no two days are the same and this is also something I really enjoy and value.

Kathleen Murray

Early Learning Centre, 2IC & Educator
kathleen@portschool.wa.edu.au

Kia Ora, Hi! My name is Kathleen Murray and I have had the pleasure of working in the early childhood sector for many years. I completed all my training in New Zealand where I gained a Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood Education. My main role at the Port Early Learning Centre is Assistant Contact Coordinator and Educational Leader.  I have a passion for education, development and support of young children and I believe that their long-term learning is directly affected by their early childhood education experiences.

Lorraine O’Toole

Outreach Program, Student Support
lorraine@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Lorraine O’Toole and I joined the Port School Outreach Program in 2023. I am a mother of three daughters and now a grandma of three granddaughters – best thing ever!
I began my career in the early nineties working in a drop-in centre and running specific programs for young people, targeting areas of concern in the community. Although I really loved this work, the hours became difficult with my own young children at home, so I switched into education, working as an assistant to children with special needs. It was at this time I began studying toward my teaching degree, which I completed in 2014. I had however already started working with Department of Child Protection within residential group homes. I stayed in this sector for thirteen years, eventually managing a group home in the southern suburbs. Although I loved this work, the time came for a change. I went on to lecture in Community Services and Youth Work for a couple of years at TAFE before joining the Port team.
The young people at Port are extremely lucky to have such a dedicated team of professionals guiding them through life. I’m so happy and also honoured to be a part of this amazing team.

Kororia (Klaudz) Ririnui

Early Learning Centre, Educator
klaudz@portschool.wa.edu.au

Kia Ora, Hi! Hello, my name is Kororia Ririnui (aka Klaudz) and I am a Qualified Educator at the Port Early Learning Centre.  I started my career in a bilingual Early Learning Centre in New Zealand, teaching 0-5 year old children for over 20 years.  I have a Bachelor in Early Childhood Education and joined the Port Early Learning Team in 2016.  I am passionate about giving children a voice to know who they are, so they are able to stand strong and confident in the world in which we live.  “Breeding Leaders” in their early years.

Aidan Rowden

Senior School, Teacher
aidan@portschool.wa.edu.au

Grant Snowdon

Student Support
grant@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Grant Snowdon and I joined Port School at the start of 2021 as a prac student undertaking work experience for my Certificate IV in Youth Work. On completion of my course I was lucky enough to be offered to stay on as a qualified youth worker, which I accepted with pleasure. I felt Port was the perfect place to use my lived experience and passion for helping youth better their lives. Before starting at Port, I worked as a fitness instructor for five years which I loved and I am very happy that I am able to incorporate this into my work. I look forward to supporting and guiding students at Port for years to come. 

Andrea Stacey

Student Support Services Coordinator
andreas@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Andrea Stacey and I have been working in education for the past twenty years. I grew up in Northam, relocated to Perth to study nursing and then returned to regional WA and worked in a variety of country towns after graduation. I began working for the Department of Education in Student Support in the late 1990’s, and the highlight of this role was working at PMH in the hospital school. I graduated from Murdoch University with a BA in 2018, my focus was Youth Work, Drug and Alcohol Addictions, Social Work and Counselling/Pastoral Care. I work as the Student Support Services Coordinator and I am passionate about supporting young people to reach their potential. Working at Port School is akin to belonging to a big, caring and dedicated family, the staff go above and beyond to work holistically with the students, and the teamwork ethic is strong.

Dave Stubbs

Psychologist & Counsellor
dave@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Dave Stubbs and I commenced working at Port School in 2017. I have been a registered psychologist since 2010, having previously worked across the disability, child protection and adolescent mental health sectors. I have recently joined the Port team full-time, following completion of post-graduate masters study (Counselling Psychology). I continue to remain extremely passionate and committed to the profession of psychology, adolescent mental health and supporting young people within an at-risk education setting.

Suzanna Sullivan-Jessop

Student Support
suzanna@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Suzanna Sullivan-Jessop and my journey at Port School began in 2018 in Student Support. Prior to this I worked at South Fremantle High School in the Autism Extension Program and I have a Diploma in Beauty Therapy. At Port School I get to combine both my passions – working with students in an incredible, supportive environment as well as sharing my knowledge and skills in Beauty Therapy which may inspire their future goals and pathways.

Luke Tidy

Middle & Senior School, Teacher
luke@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Luke Tidy and I’m a local boy growing up in Samson, not far from Port School. I have been working as a Sports Teacher since I completed my university studies in 2017. My teaching career has taken me around Australia, living and working in the Pilbara, Far North Queensland, the Wheatbelt and finally moving back to Perth to be nearer to family with my own two kids. Prior to teaching, I completed a degree in Sports Science while playing and coaching state level basketball for many years. I have always found that sport is a great outlet and fantastic way for people to connect, have fun and stay active. I love being able to get students involved in sport and am always on the lookout for an opportunity to jump in the game myself.

Eileen Vlahovich

Middle School, Teacher
eileen@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Eileen Vlahovich and I have been working at Port School since 2017.
I grew up in Western Sydney and studied a Master of Teaching (Primary) at the University of Western Sydney. I began teaching primary school in Western Sydney, before heading overseas and spending 2 years teaching in London and travelling Europe. I then spent the next few years relief teaching and travelling as much as possible, including a 6 month around the world trip in 2014. I moved to Perth in June 2015 and was relief teaching and working in hospitality until I was given a position at Port. My aim is to create a safe place where students are able to grow academically, as well as in confidence and interpersonal skills, so that they may experience success in their lives after Port.

Ali Walker

Senior School, Hospitality Trainer & Cooking Teacher
ali@portschool.wa.edu.au

Mel White

Counsellor
melissa@portschool.wa.edu.au

My name is Mel and I joined the Port School Student Services team as counsellor in early 2024.

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 2012, studying Psychology with a double major in Children and Family Studies. Shortly after that I completed a postgraduate Diploma in Psychology. My passion is working with children and young people,  supporting them with their wellbeing and emotional health needs. I have worked as an adolescent counsellor for 7 years, and most recently I worked with children who have been exposed to Family and Domestic Violence. I am really looking forward to working with adolescents again and with a school with such a strong and positive reputation in the community. One that I am proud to be apart of.”