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 Acting Principal
Welcome to Mawarra Public School, a welcoming, inclusive and high-performing learning community in the heart of Elderslie, Camden. Guided by our motto, 'Let Your Light Shine', we believe every child deserves to be known, valued and cared for. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive and engaging environment where every student is empowered to discover their strengths, build confidence and reach their full potential.
At Mawarra, we inspire excellence by maintaining high expectations for learning, wellbeing and behaviour while recognising the unique strengths, interests and potential of every student. Through evidence-informed teaching, explicit instruction and meaningful learning experiences, we support all learners to achieve success. We are equally committed to providing opportunities that challenge and extend our high potential and gifted students while ensuring every child receives the support they need to flourish.
Learning at Mawarra extends beyond the classroom. Students are encouraged to develop their potential across the intellectual, creative, physical and social domains through rich opportunities in sport, the arts, leadership, environmental initiatives and community involvement. We strive to nurture confident, compassionate and resilient young people who embrace challenges, value others and make a positive contribution to their communities.
Our school is strengthened by genuine partnerships with families, our dedicated P&C and the wider community. By working together, we create a culture where every student feels a strong sense of belonging, every family is valued as a partner in learning, and every child is supported to achieve their personal best.
Whether you are already part of our school community or considering Mawarra for your family, we warmly welcome you and look forward to sharing the journey of learning with you.
Kylea Dowling
Acting Principal, Mawarra 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.
Ms Dowling, Acting Principal
Mrs Napoleone, APC& I, Early Stage 1 Assistant Principal
Keryn Ponsonby APC&I Stage 1 Assistant Principal
Mrs Testone, Stage 2 Assistant Principal
Mr Lowndes, Stage 3 Assistant Principal
Ms Hayman, Assistant Principal Support
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.
- Mrs Napoleone - AP/APC&I–(LST - Monday – Thursday, KM - Friday)
- Mrs Mooney - KM (Monday-Thursday)
- Mrs Begley – KB (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday)
- Miss Hadley – KB (Monday)
- Miss Jenkins - KK
- Miss Jansen – KJ
- Mrs Ponsonby - AP/APC&I, LST
- Mrs Wood - 1FM (Monday - Wednesday)
- Mrs Fairweather - 1FM (Thursday, Friday)
- Mrs Coehlo – 1C
- Mrs Gruar – 1G
- Ms Warren – 1/2W
- Mrs Kynaston – 2K
- Mrs Testone - AP - 3/4T
- Mrs Slade - 3/4S
- Mrs Vicary – 3/4V (Monday – Thursday)
- Mrs Acampora – 3/4V (Friday)
- Mrs Watson – 4/5W
- Mr Lowndes - Assistant Principal - 5/6L
- Mrs Watson – 4/5W
- Mrs Bailey – 5/6B (Monday, Tuesday Wednesday)
- Mrs Hordern – 5/6B (Thursday, Friday)
- Mrs Taber– 5/6T
- Ms Hayman – AP Support – SH
- Mrs Dunbar - SD (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday)
- Mrs Mayes - SD (Wednesday)
- Ms Took - ST
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 and supportive education network, committed to ongoing professional growth. Many hold advanced accreditation, reflecting their dedication to excellence in teaching and learning. This ensures your child benefits from high-quality, evidence-based education every day.
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.
- Community Liaison Officer Executive Support - Mrs Beauchamp
- Teacher Librarian - Mrs Noakes
- Visual Arts Teacher - Miss Lech
- RFF/LaST Teachers - Mrs Ponsonby (Leader), Mrs Napoleone, Miss Hadley, Mr Barr,
- School Learning Support Officers - Mr Garzaniti, Mrs Franklin, Mr Lesa, Mrs Clarke, Mrs Mifsud, Mrs Ball, Mr Rennex, Miss Francios, Mrs Ayrey, Miss Dacich, Mr Elson
- School Counsellors – Mrs Evans & Mrs Thorne
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.
Business Manager - Mrs Brooksby
School Administrative Officers - Mrs Scaife, Mrs Short, Mrs Prior
General Assistant - Mr Scaife & Mr Callaghan
Have a question for our principal or teachers?
Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.
Contact our school should you have a question.
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.