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 Cessnock West Public School. For more than 125 years, our school has been at the heart of the Cessnock community, creating a safe and supportive place for children to learn and grow.
At Cessnock West, we value respect, responsibility and a love of learning. Our dedicated staff work in partnership with families to nurture each child’s strengths, build resilience and inspire curiosity. Guided by our motto, Courtesy and Knowledge, we continue to build a caring and connected school community where students feel proud of who they are and excited about their future.
I warmly invite you to explore our website and see what makes our school such a special place to belong..”
Ruth Goodwin, Principal of Cessnock West 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 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.
- Nicole Blackadder, APCI
- Jessica Coolahan, APCI
- Camilla Hamilton, Early Stage 1 Assistant Principal, KHD
- Sarni Dorrington, KHD
- Stacey Lynch, KL
- Carly Forster, KF
- Anne West, Stage 1 Assistant Principal
- Tania Nasr, 1N
- Sarah Cartwright, 1C
- Kristy Price, 1P
- Andrew Majdandzic, 2M
- Haley Lambert, 2L
- Montana Henderson, Stage 2 Assistant Principal
- Amy Hadden, 3/4H
- Ryan Glanville, 3/4G
- Laney Green, 3/4A
- Siobhan Flanagan, 3/4C
- Christian Vogel, 4/5V
- Tom Duck, Stage 3 Assistant Principal
- Zali Gunther, 5/6G
- Nick Davies, 5/6N
- Ashleigh Smith, 5/6S
- Elkie Brown, 5/6O
- Alison Mercer, 5/6O
- Jess Valley, K6V
- Jae Rolt, Teacher Librarian
- Megan Andrews, Teacher Librarian
- Patricia Harcombe, Technology / Support
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.
- Jarrod Birch, Assistant Principal Wellbeing
- Marissa Floyd, Aboriginal Education Officer and Community Liaison Officer
- Deb Costa, School Counsellor
- Amy Hill, Transition Support Teacher, Early Years
- Tori Hill, Learning and Support Teacher
- Isaac Haines, Learning and Support Teacher
- Isabella Britten, Learning and Support Teacher
- Mandy Huber, Assistant Principal - Vision
- Caitlin Kiss, Vision Itinerate Teacher
- Jay Bichard, Learning and Support Teacher
- Marcia Abbott, School Learning Support Officer
- Jodie Crump, School Learning Support Officer
- Brittany Hill, School Learning Support Officer
- Emma Kutek, School Learning Support Officer
- Jasmine Kerr, School Learning Support Officer
- Madiesen Bargwanna, School Learning Support Officer
- James Murray Cassell, School Learning Support Officer
- Rebecca Wallace, School Learning Support Officer
- Mark Woodbridge, School Learning Support Officer
- Felicity Rees, School Learning Support Officer
- Meredith Mascord, School Learning Support Officer
- Sienna Newsome, School Learning Support Officer
- Emma Kutek, School Learning Support Officer
- Bradley Stone, School Learning Support Officer
- Jacinta White, School Learning Support Officer
- Mark Woodbridge, School Learning Support Officer
- Carlie Whyburn School Learning Support Officer
- Mrs Hawkins, Mentor
- Marissa Floyd, AEO / CLO
Contact our school to learn about our wellbeing and support staff.
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.
- Christine Witherspoon, School Administration Manager
- Debbie Taylor, School Administration Officer
- Amy Coleman, School Administration Officer
- Nigel Hartick, Technical Support Officer
Contact our school to learn about our administrative and operations staff.
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.