Meet The Staff

We’re excited to meet you!

Meet Our Staff

At the top of the list when measuring the quality of a school has to be the quality of the teaching staff. We are beyond fortunate to have a team of teachers truly dedicated to positive outcomes for all children.

Meet our teachers below!

Leadership & Administration

Melanie Daly

Melanie Daly

Principal (Email: mdaly@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

I have a passion for wellbeing and authentic community connections.  I love coming to school each day and have been connected to the St Brigid’s family for over 10 years.  Our strong bonds are what makes us special!  Each child and family member are valued for what they bring to our community.  We support, inspire and nurture the growth in each other, developing and expressing our unique gifts and talents.  I am passionate about empowering young people to take action in our world and am blessed by being able to work alongside many amazing students in my role as Mini Vinnies Social Justice leader.  When I am not at school I love family time, playing golf or spending time in nature.  I also love time with our family pets, our dog, cats, goats, snake and lizards.  

Keena Lane-Kerton

Keena Lane-Kerton

Deputy Principal, Religious Education Leader and Literacy Leader (Email: klane-kerton@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

Hi I’m Keena and I have the privilege of working with the youngest at St. Brigid’s; the Foundation year children. Every day in our learning space is an adventure where the children use their natural curiosity to explore, ask questions, have fun, make new friends and develop their enthusiasm and love for learning. It’s exciting to see these little ones grow and learn. St. Brigid’s is a great example of a community that cares for and about children. As we are a small school we all know and look out for each other.
When I am not at St. Brigid’s I love to spend time with my family and friends. I play and coach netball and enjoy reading and going to the movies.

Petrina O'Grady

Petrina O'Grady

Deputy Principal, Learning and Teaching Leader, Wellbeing Leader (Email: pogrady@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

I am a passionate lifelong learner. My belief is that we never stop learning each and every day. We learn from one another, we learn from our experiences and we learn best as a community.
I am blessed to be a part of the St Brigid’s community because the values of courage, faith, courage and strength are ones I hold close to my heart.
My personal aim at St Brigid’s is to support flourishing learners, encourage independence, and lead future change makers of our world.
Lisa Wilson

Lisa Wilson

Administration (Email: lwilson@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

I have been part of the St Brigid’s community for many years and have enjoyed every day.

 I love to greet everyone to our beautiful school with a cheery and welcoming smile.  No two days are ever the same and there’s never a dull moment. 

 

Teresa Pierobon

Teresa Pierobon

Administration (Email: office@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

New to St Brigid’s and the area in 2021, I’m excited to get to know everyone and connect with our local community.  At St Brigid’s, you’ll find me in the office, I’ll be taking care of accounts and looking after the school and your children’s needs as required. 

 

Chek Stevens

Chek Stevens

Learning Diversity Leader (Email: cstevens@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

I simply love the community of St Brigid’s. The genuine connectedness between students, staff, families and the wider community makes our school the most wonderfully warm place to grow and learn together. I feel blessed and proud to work in such a supportive, dynamic and inspiring learning environment.  
Outside of school I enjoy sports of all sorts and spending time with family and good mates.

Tome Murrone

Tome Murrone

Pastoral Worker (Email: tmurrone@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

Hi Im Tome and I’m very excited to be part of the community here at St Brigids. I love all things wellbeing and feel privileged to be working with the children and staff here. When I’m not at school, I’m usually in the garden or exploring new places with my wife and dog. You can find me in the wellbeing
room located on the corner of the learning St.
Drop in and say hi anytime.

Grade Prep Teachers

Alex Williams

Alex Williams

Foundation / Prep Teacher (Email: awilliams@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

Hi everyone, I’m Alex Williams and this year I am new to St Brigid’s as the Prep teacher. I have been a Prep teacher for a number of years and I cherish watching young minds grow and learn in their first year of primary school. I am looking forward to having such a great year with everyone in the St Brigid’s parish community.

Grade 1/2 Teachers

Brodie Goricanec

Brodie Goricanec

Junior Classroom Teacher (Email: bgoricanec@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

I love working at St Brigid’s because every day I get to be part of a collaborative, supportive and inclusive learning community. I love that I get to provide my students with rich, engaging and relevant learning opportunities that promote self-motivation, curiosity, collaboration, and resilience.

There is also such a strong sense of community throughout the school, which instantly made me and anyone else who enters feel welcome.

Outside of work and school, I enjoy spending time with my friends over coffee and long brunches, going to the gym, watching football and playing netball.

Mariah Plumb

Mariah Plumb

Junior School Classroom Teacher (Email: mplumb@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

I love working at St Brigid’s because it is an inclusive, collaborative and supportive learning community.  As a small school it is fantastic to see the strong connections between parents, students, teachers and the wider community. I enjoy working in the Seniors and seeing the students grow as leaders and as people. They are able to engage in hands on learning tasks that ignites their curiosity and creativity for the world around them. Outside of school I enjoy watching my beloved Bombers play footy, going to the beach, playing netball and hanging out with my friends and family.

Grade 3/4 Teachers

Stephanie Briggs

Stephanie Briggs

Middle School Classroom Teacher (Email sbriggs@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

 I take my job very seriously, but despite my great effort and my good intentions, I sometimes fumble.     I was not a perfect student and I don’t expect my students to be.  We all learn differently.  I encourage those I teach to help me understand how they learn best.  I pride myself on knowing an individual’s dreams inside and outside of school.  I try to connect them, for that is where one will find the true joy in learning.  I have completed teaching rounds in Western Australia and the Northern Territory, with a great love for Indigenous culture and life.  I live with my partner Dev and our daughter August who is 3.  Some of my very favorite activities include gardening, alongside my pets and reading.  I really enjoy spending my weekends exploring new and old places and going on adventures with my family.  I hope that alongside the school community, I can ensure my students have a truly remarkable education at St Brigid’s, as I embrace my first year at our school wholeheartedly, with passion and the willingness to grow. 

Annie Irwin

Annie Irwin

Middle School Classroom Teacher (Email: airwin@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

This will be my sixth year teaching at St Brigid’s and I still pinch myself every time I come to work.  It actually doesn’t feel like work, it feels like being with an extended family of learners! Outside of school, I enjoy going to the movies, watching the Tigers play footy with my family and being in the bush.

Michelle Haller

Michelle Haller

Middle School Classroom Teacher (Email: coming soon)

Hi, I’m thrilled to introduce myself as a current parent and dedicated teacher at St. Brigids. I have grown up in and now settled with my family and dog in the beautiful Macedon Ranges. I love coming to work each day and seeing all the bright and happy faces of the students and staff – it truly is an amazing place to be. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching students across all year levels, from Prep to year 6, which as been a truly rewarding experience. In my classroom, I strive to create an atmosphere filled with joy, fun, and laughter. I believe that when students enjoy their learning journey, they become more engaged and enthusiastic about exploring new concepts. I aim to create learning spaces that empower every student to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of young learners and collaborating with teachers and parents at St. Brigids to create a bright future for all students.

Grade 5/6 Teachers

Jayde Turner

Jayde Turner

Senior School Classroom Teacher (Email: jturner@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

Hi I’m Jayde. I am a graduate teacher and St B’s is the first school I’ve ever worked at as a qualified teacher, which is pretty awesome. I was fortunate to be offered a teaching position in 2022 with the senior students. I love being part of this community and I’ve found St Brigids super welcoming being so new to the profession. At St Brigid’s I want to create a learning environment in which all my students feel included, supported and like they can express themselves. I pride myself on creating and fostering positive relationships which are based on respect, acceptance and a whole heap of fun!!

Hayley Milner

Hayley Milner

Senior School Classroom Teacher (Email: hmilner@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

Hi, I’m Hayley, I grew up in the Macedon Ranges, studied and lived in Melbourne and more recently in London, teaching and traveling the UK and Europe. The whole school community of St Brigid’s has been incredibly welcoming. I feel privileged to be a part of it, and look forward to continuing to contribute and get to know everyone. I value making connections with students and families, helping students make positive memories at school and reach their full potential in all facets of school life. When I am not teaching I love spending time with family, friends and my border collie, Ida. I also play netball and enjoy dance. I have a passion for music, food, health and the environment. I can’t wait to watch our students learn and grow each year.

Specialised Teachers

Jackie Schober

Jackie Schober

Digital Technology Teacher & Visual Arts (email: jschober@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

Hello! My name is Jackie and I feel so lucky to be a part of the St Brigid’s family in more ways than one. I have been a parent here for nine years, but now I am also on staff to co-ordinate the school’s ICT and expand student learning in the world of Digital Technologies and visual Arts as well.

In my spare time, I love to be with my family. We love live music, travelling and watching and playing sport. We all love our cheeky dog Willie, who is naughty but just so adorable! He keeps us very busy!

Jess Glasson

Jess Glasson

Physical Education Teacher (Email: jglasson@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

Hi, I’m Jess and I joined the St Brigid’s team in 2021.  I have been teaching PE for over 10 years. I am very passionate about developing the physical literacy of my students, so they can go on to be healthy and active adults.  I feel very fortunate to be a part of the St Brigid’s family, it is such a welcoming community where every student is truly valued for their individual talents.  As a teacher it is a great privilege watching my students develop their skills and confidence throughout the year.

In my spare time I love spending time with my family, playing netball, water skiing and camping.

Emma Barker

Emma Barker

Sustainability and Grade 1/2 (Email: emmabarker@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

I love my St. Brigid’s family. As a past student, an involved parent of over 10 years and a teacher, I am a very passionate and proud member of our school community. My children and I could not wish for a more loving and supportive environment to learn and grow. I am grateful for the dedication and enthusiasm our staff, parents and students alike show each and every day to make our community so unique.

I am very fortunate in my role to be able to teach and get to know every student at St. Brigid’s each week. I learn so much from them and am excited about what we can achieve together as a team.

Kieran Connell

Kieran Connell

ICT Support and Help-Desk (Email: kconnell@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

My role at St Brigid’s is ICT, support and online help-desk.

After four decades of teaching I still enjoy coming into our school and working with everyone. Each day is different from the one before.

The feeling of community, the care and concern for the students, teachers parents and visitors makes St Brigid’s a very special school and I count myself very lucky to have been a part of it.

Daniel Garcia

Daniel Garcia

Digital Technologies Teacher (Email: dgarcia@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

I have worked with Digital Technologies for many years. Starting out as an animator and video game designer in Australia, before doing a stint in toy Design in Asia (yes, very grown up jobs I know), before heading back home to share what I had learned, teaching in Secondary, Primary and Tertiary institutions.  

I currently teach Digital Technologies at Macedon Primary, Mount Macedon Primary and Still Designs and make toys on the side at  www.plywood.toys (check it out!).

I have been working at St Brigid’s Primary School as a CRT for the past few years and have always said what a pleasure it is to be around such a caring, passionate, engaged and funny group of young people.

Margaret Sacco

Margaret Sacco

Speech Pathologist (Email: msacco@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

My name is Margaret Sacco and I have worked as a Speech Pathologist in the north-west for over 15 years in Catholic primary and secondary schools as well as private practice. I am passionate about education, supporting and promoting the diverse learning needs of children and advocating for children and their families from a range of needs and backgrounds.  My many years of work in Catholic schools has provided me with a strong understanding of the curriculum, experience with various learning and teaching pedagogy and unique skills across all tiers of intervention. Seeing children reach their full potential and thrive in their learning is what continues to drive me in my work!

I live locally in Gisborne with my husband and our three gorgeous boys. I enjoy spending time with my family, pottering around on our farm, cooking, gardening and catching up with friends. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work at St. Brigid’s and I can’t wait serve my local community!

Education Support Officers

Jenny Lunn

Jenny Lunn

Education Support Officer / Pastoral Care Officer: (Email: jlunn@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

My name is Jenny Lunn and I am the new Pastoral Care Officer. I am here to support the students of St Brigid’s to achieve and be their best through supporting their emotional and social wellbeing. I have a bachelor of Psychology Degree and am currently undertaking a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy to enable me to further support St. Brigid’s students. When I am not working, I enjoy art, foreign films and long brunches.  If you see me wondering around come and say ‘Hi!’. I look forward to meeting you.

Robyn Delaney

Robyn Delaney

Education Support Officer (Email: rdelaney@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

Hi, I’m Robyn and I’m a Learning Support Officer here at St. Brigid’s.  I love the sense of belonging and community felt here, built by the relationships between students, staff and families.  I believe this is St. Brigid’s greatest strength, one reason my children attended the school and why I’ve been here since 2000.  
At St. Brigid’s we truly know our students – their individual needs, learning styles, motivators, likes and dislikes and their abilities. Our teamwork creates successful partnerships and improves the learning outcomes for all students – whatever their starting point.
I encourage each student’s personal belief in their ability to succeed – so that they are engaged and feel they belong, in an environment which is both playful and yet challenging.  
When I’m not at St. Brigid’s, I enjoy being with my family and friends, and getting away in the bush camping and getting back to nature.

Leanne Humphreys

Leanne Humphreys

Education Support Officer (Email: lhumphreys@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)

I was employed by St Brigid’s in 2020 as an Education Support Officer. I recently graduated from Swinburne University with an Associate Degree in Education. I am passionate about supporting and advocating for students with additional needs, finding the strengths in each child, and supporting emotional and social learning. Outside of school, you will always find me in my garden, with my family (husband and three children), planning our next cruise or weekend adventure.

Natasha Jolly

Natasha Jolly

Education Support Officer

Hi, I’m Tash and I work as an Education Support Officer within the Junior areas. I was employed by St Brigid’s in 2022 holding a Diploma in Education and I have loved watching and helping young children grow and learn. Outside of work, I enjoy being around friends and family, spending time with my pets, and going camping.
Gary Johnstone

Gary Johnstone

Education Support Officer

Following 36 years in business and 6 years of retirement I found myself a little bored and craving something more meaningful to do.  After facilitating leadership development programs for 7 years during the latter stages of my business life, and having 3 children and 5 Grandchildren I knew I loved 3 things:

Delivering learning, supporting and caring for kids, helping others achieve their goals.
Being a Learning Support Officer at St Brigid’s is an everyday opportunity to do the 3 things I love.
Helping our excellent teachers be the best they can be, and helping our amazing students in the right way at just the right moment is my daily goal.
When I get it right, it’s very rewarding, doesn’t feel a bit like work, and I know I’m definitely doing something worthwhile.
Outside of “work” at St Brigid’s I enjoy my family, playing golf locally, going on golf trips, watching movies, and doing some volunteer driving for the local council.
Genevieve Serong

Genevieve Serong

Education Support Officer

Coming Soon

Tanya Modola

Tanya Modola

Education Support Officer

Hi my name is Tanya, I’ve been working as an Education Support Officer at St Brigids since 2022. You will find me in the prep area where I just love being with our youngest students. I have been working with children for the past ten years with different ages and various roles. Before coming to St Brigids I was a leader Educator of a local three year old kinder, co lead with Tash who is currently working with the Juniors. I have also worked with Leanne as an ESO at another local primary school. We have all joined the St Brigids team and became a part of the St Brigids family. As an educator I am passionate about supporting students with their learning and building relationships with them. I also love to be creative so you might offen find me in the Art room along side the children exploring the wide variety of resources St Brigids has to offer. 
I have lived locally in Gisborne for the last seven years with my Husband and Two children. I enjoy spending time with my family camping or going on beach holidays and I enjoy spending time in my garden. 
Kylie Vacirca

Kylie Vacirca

Education Support Officer

St. Brigid’s is such a warm and welcoming community that I am so grateful to be a part of. Being able to make a positive impact in a child’s life is something truly special. It brings me joy every day to be supporting our wonderful students and staff.
I try my best to create a warm, supportive and inclusive environment for all students. I love seeing the children learn, grow and achieve their personal best whilst having a laugh along the way!
Outside of school I enjoy gardening, baking and watching movies. I love spending time with my family, including my furbabies, Roxy and Taco.

Susan Cairns

Susan Cairns

Education Support Officer

Coming Soon

Deanne Torcutti

Deanne Torcutti

Education Support Officer

I have been working as an Education Support Officer for over 10 years now and can’t believe how quickly this time has flown by. I find my job very rewarding helping students with their learning, social emotional skills & growing as learners. Also encouraging them to enjoy their primary school journey.

When I’m not working I love spending time with my family and friends.

Isn’t it time we got to know each other?
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