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 Public School, a vibrant and welcoming school community dedicated to fostering a love of learning in every one of our students.

We pride ourselves on providing a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

Our robust literacy and numeracy programs are built on the proven pedagogy of explicit teaching.

Beginning in 2025, we are proud to collaborate with the University of Newcastle on a three-year research initiative centred on the Quality Teaching Framework.

These programs are designed to help every student establish a strong foundation across essential learning areas.

Our dedicated staff are committed to supporting every learner creating an environment where every child is known, valued, and cared for. Student wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) program reinforces our core values of being safe, respectful, and a learner, providing a supportive framework for all students.

At Cessnock Public School, we are committed to providing an engaging, inclusive, and innovative learning environment that empowers our students to reach their full potential. Together, we are building a brighter future for our children and our community. I invite you to explore our website to discover what makes our school special. We look forward to welcoming you into our community.”

Merilyn Burton, Principal of Cessnock Public School

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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 Staff
  • Merilyn Burton, Principal

  • Rochelle Moore, Deputy Principal Inclusion and Support

  • Glenn Burrell, Assistant Principal

  • Kate Cheetham, Assistant Principal - Primary

  • Nicole Hensler, Assistant Principal - Infants

  • Rachel Welch, Assistant Principal - Support

  • Kathy Cameron, Assistant Principal - Support

  • Tom Kirton, Assistant Principal - Infants Curriculum & Instruction

  • Jodie Crouch, Assistant Principal - Primary Curriculum & Instruction

  • Michelle Crowfoot, Assistant Principal - Support Curriculum & Instruction

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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.

Infants
  • Sarah Madge - KM
  • Rebecca Singleton - K/1S
  • Kim Goward - 1/2G
  • Annie Atkinson - 1/2G
  • Bre Peters - 1/2P
  • Drew Conley - 1/2P
  • Cooper Vaughan - 1/2V
Primary
  • Elizabeth Lennon - 3/4C
  • Clay Ritchie - 3/4R
  • Jemma Handley - 5/6H
  • Ellen Woods - 5/6W
Support
  • Nakita Savaidis - Orange
  • Bec Knox - Violet
  • Teagan Convery - Indigo
  • Briane Taylor - Green
  • Janice Clack - Blue
  • Donna Barrett - Yellow
  • Lorraine Kainz - Yellow
  • Jayden Godwin - Red
Student Learning Support Officers
  • Trish Musgrove
  • Debbie Duncan
  • Sophie Stapleford
  • Peta Jackson
  • Jill Crawford-Lane
  • Jodie Turvey
  • Hayden Lamb
  • Miranda Finnigan
  • Tanya Parker
  • Deb Wilkie
  • Narelle Jurd
  • Donna Pender
  • Janice Horne
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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.

Our administrative and operations staff
  • Jeanette Whitehead - School Administration Manager
  • Natalie McNamara - School Administration Officer
  • Yolanda Duffie - School Administration Officer
  • David Woodbury - General Assistant
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Contact our school to learn about our teaching team

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.

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

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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.