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 warm, safe and supportive environment for every child to thrive in. We value respect, responsibility and learning, and we teach to each child's individual strengths and needs.
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, or to phone us and make an appointment to drop by for a visit. We look forward to welcoming you into our community.”
Jennifer Birch, Principal of Sylvania Public School
Diploma in Teaching (Primary), Bachelor of Education (Primary), Master of Arts, Master of Educational Leadership (Distinction)
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.
Ms. Jennifer Birch, Principal
Diploma in Teaching (Primary), Bachelor of Education (Primary), Master of Arts, Master of Educational Leadership (Distinction)
Ms. Birch has been a principal in two NSW Department of Education schools and also held senior leadership positions in the department. She is passionate about ensuring students get the best education and develop a love for learning.
Miss. Laura Dodd, Assistant Principal (K-2) and Assistant Principal Curriculum and Instruction
Bachelor of Education (Primary)
Miss Dodd has a passion for ensuring students in the early years develop strong literacy and numeracy skills and she uses research to inform her practice.
Mr. Ben Smith, Assistant Principal (3-6) and Assistant Principal Curriculum and Instruction
Bachelor of Psychology, Master of Education
Mr Smith leads our learning and Support Team, to ensure that students with additional needs, or who are identified as having high potential in the intellectual, emotional, creative pr physical domains are catered for and appropriately challenged.
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.
- Miss. Laura Dodd, Assistant Principal K-2, class teacher
- Miss. Ange Browne, class teacher
- Miss. Meg Bronner, class teacher
- Miss. Cynthia Kittos, class teacher
- Mrs. Amy Sullivan, class teacher
- Ms. Sara Psaltis, class teacher
- Miss. Sam Smith, class teacher and learning and support teacher
- Mr. Ben Smith, Assistant Principal 3-6, class teacher
- Miss. Kirstie Xeureb, class 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. Many of our teachers hold post graduate degrees which ensures they use evidence-informed strategies t meet the needs of every learner.
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.
- Mrs. Lauri Gooch, Teacher Librarian
- Mrs. Isabel Menendez, Languages Teacher, Spanish and Greek
- Mr. Phil Blackburn, Learning Support Teacher
- Mrs. Farisha Kaiyum, School Learning Support Officer
- Mrs. Marieke Lam, School Learning Support Officer
- Miss. Liz Georgiou, 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.
- Ms. Mandy Bradley, School Administrative Manager
- Mrs. Sue Gilmore, School Administration Officer
- Miss. Simone McIntyre, School Administration Officer
- Mr. Dave McCarthy, General Assistant
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.