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
"Welcome to Tanilba Bay Public School, a proud regional coastal school situated on Worimi land in Port Stephens. Guided by our values of Learning, Caring and Sharing, Tanilba Bay Public School is a place where every student is supported to grow, thrive, and succeed.
Through collaboration and connection, our school community works in partnership to foster meaningful engagement and embed high expectations for all. We promote an inclusive learning environment where students, staff, and families are known, valued, and cared for—creating a strong foundation for both academic and personal success.
At TBPS, we are deeply committed to ensuring that every child feels a sense of belonging. Our dedicated and passionate educators work collaboratively to design high-quality, differentiated teaching and learning programs that are informed by data and aligned to our strategic directions: Student Growth and Attainment and Wellbeing and Belonging. We aim to nurture confident, capable learners who are ready to make a positive impact in their world.
At Tanilba Bay Public School, learning goes beyond the classroom. Through academic excellence, wellbeing programs, and a range of enrichment and extracurricular opportunities, our students are supported to explore their interests, develop resilience, and embrace their potential.
Whether you’re new to our school or already part of the TBPS family, I warmly invite you to be part of our ongoing journey—a journey where learning, caring, and sharing are more than just values; they are the way we live and grow together."
Pauline Smith,
Proud Principal of Tanilba Bay Public School
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.
Our Leadership Team
Our leadership team, including our principal, guide teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.
- Ms Caitlyn Kelly Assistant Principal Stage 3
- Mr Timothy Marchant Assistant Principal Stage 2
- Mrs Nicole Johnston Assistant Principal Stage 1 & APCI
- Mrs Jennifer Williams Assistant Principal Early Stage 1 & Wellbeing
- Mrs Cassandra Ridgeway Assistant Principal APCI
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.
Kindergarten
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Ms Nicki Denny - KD
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Mr Chris Monaghan - KM
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Ms Shenae Guiffre - K/1G
Stage 1
- Mr Stewart Ayre - 1/2A
- Ms Emily Opazo - 1/2E
- Mrs Karina Monaghan - 1/2M
- Mrs Natalie Newton - 1/2ON
- Ms Taylah Whitty - 1/2W
Stage 2
- Mr Ricky Andrews - 3/4A
- Mr Harrison Hylands - 3/4H
- Mr Timothy Marchant/Mrs Chloe Koller - 3/4M
- Mrs Nicola Drummond - 3/4T
Stage 3
- Ms Caitlyn Kelly - 5/6K
- Mr Lachlan Rinkin - 5/6R
- Mr Jock Thompson - 5/6T
- Ms Amy Waterhouse - 5/6W
Release from face to face teaching staff
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Mrs Cena Alcevski - Teacher Librarian
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Mr Luke Henley
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Ms Lyndsey James
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 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.
Support Unit & Learning Support
- Mrs Jennifer Williams - AP Wellbeing
- Mrs Margo Kovalevsky - LaST
- Mrs Cathy Stone - LaST
- Mrs Angela Muldoon - SC1
- Mrs Micheala Sawtell - SC1
School Counsellor
- Mr Andrew Moore
Aboriginal Education Officer
- Mrs Sherree Morley
School Learning Support Officers
- Mrs Kelly Coupe
- Mrs Meg Irwin
- Mr Mitchell Lees
- Ms Jasmin Malsem
- Mrs Shay Mowbray
- Mrs Andrea Soto
- Mrs Jenny Stephenson
- Mr Blake Thompson
- Mr Dwayne Vaggs
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.
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Mrs Amanda Brewer, School Administrative Manager
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Mrs Annie Brawn, School Administrative Officer
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Mrs Janine Glance-Wilson, School Administrative Officer
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Mr Mitchell Lees, School Administrative Officer
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Mrs Stacey Somerville, School Administrative Officer
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Mr David Waterhouse, General Assistant
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Mrs Robyn McDermott, Canteen & Uniform Shop
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.