Leadership

Peter McDonald

Deputy Principal, Head of Junior School and ELC
MEd, GradCertEd (Maths), GradCertBusAdmin, BEd, MACEL

Peter is an experienced primary educator and university lecturer who holds four university qualifications in the areas of education, mathematics, and business. With a firm commitment to international mindedness and delivering outstanding student learning, he has held various school leadership positions both in Australia and internationally. As a published academic focusing on teacher development and inquiry-based learning, he has presented at conferences in Japan, Singapore and Taiwan. A member of the global International Baccalaureate Educator Network, Peter supports IB schools throughout Asia and the Pacific as an IB workshop leader and programme leader. As a specialist mathematics teacher, Peter holds a keen interest in supporting students to develop a passion for learning, using, and enjoying mathematics.

Michele O'Sullivan

Director of Junior School (Early Years)
BEd (Early Childhood)

Michele has over 35 years experience in Early Childhood education. She is a dedicated advocate for all young children and their families, and has held a wide range of specialist teaching and leadership positions in Early Learning Centres and Junior Schools. She also has experience working at the Canberra Institute of Technology and University of Canberra. Michele’s career highlights have included attending the Reggio Emilia Study Tour in Italy, and obtaining a Certificate in Nature Pedagogy with internationally acclaimed Dr Claire Warden. As a published author in Early Childhood Australia publications, she continues to be inspired by the teaching and learning process within the unique and wonderful world of Early Childhood Education.

Alex Galland

Director of Learning and Innovation (Junior School)
BA, DipEd, MEd, LTCL, MACEL

Alex has degrees from the University of Sydney and the University of Southern Queensland. As a member of the International Baccalaureate Education Network, Alex is an IB workshop leader and programme leader. She has extensive experience in both primary and secondary settings, including a variety of leadership positions. Alex is passionate about working with teachers to ensure a rigorous, engaging and inquiry-based curriculum. She has a particular interest in the authentic integration of technology, and has presented at many national and international conferences.

Tara Bourne

Director of Junior School (Student Care & Experience)

BEd, MEd

Tara is an experienced primary school teacher who is passionate about nurturing the holistic development of students. With a depth of experience implementing, researching, and leading school based positive education and positive psychology programs, Tara is committed to ensuring all students feel supported as they learn the skills and dispositions that enable them to flourish. Tara’s Master of Education dissertation focussed on the correlation between pastoral care practices and mathematical achievement. She has extensive experience teaching both early years and upper primary, curating a strong sense of belonging within the school community.

Craig Newton

Director of Junior School (Operations and Environment)

BEd (Primary), MLMEd, MACEL

Craig has spent many years working in primary school settings in Australia and internationally, and holds degrees from Griffith University and the University of Newcastle. As an educator, he is passionate about supporting children’s literacy development and fostering positive, safe and supportive classroom environments. Craig has a wealth of experience leading research projects and implementing effective pedagogical approaches to support student learning. With his genuine warmth and relational approach to leadership, he is committed to facilitating the professional growth of teachers, ensuring they feel supported and empowered to strengthen their capacity and develop holistically.

Jillian Shaw

Head of Academic Engagement Junior School

MEd (Gifted Education), BEd, Dip Ed, GDip Arts, COGE

A highly experienced educator, Jillian has been a dedicated member of the Junior School teaching staff since 2003. With a passion for educating students with diverse learning needs, Jillian has implemented programs and systems of support for students with disabilities, learning difficulties, gifted students and twice exceptional students. Jillian has a Certificate of Gifted Education and a Master of Education specialising in Gifted Education from the University of New South Wales, and has presented at several conferences on topics related to gifted education and high potential learners. Passionate in her belief that all learners deserve an advocate, Jillian is committed to using research-based best practice to inform programming accommodations for students, including a suite of services designed to engage and challenge gifted students.

Jillian has received several awards in education, including Australian Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL) ACT Excellence in Leadership Award, the ASG National Excellence in Teaching Awards (NEiTA) and the ASG Inspirational Teacher State and Territory Award.