STAFF
Meet the Staff
MCS teachers love teaching, and teach our students to love learning. Please click on the photos below for a brief introduction from each member of our team.
Daniel Weeks
Principal
A lifelong learner, Dan enjoys inspiring students to think bigger about their learning, taking ownership and initiative to become the young men and women God desires for them to be. A leader who values coaching, relationship and working in partnership with students, staff and the community, Dan desires to craft high quality educational opportunities for all. Continually grateful for the opportunities God provides, Dan loves sharing time with family, reading, travelling and all things design.
Tiia Wright Baker
Head of Primary
Tiia began her teaching career on the New South Wales Central Coast working in Pre-school and Special Education. Tiia started her faith-based school journey in 2002 teaching in two Christian schools and then an Anglican College in the Australian Capital Territory. She is passionate about enabling teachers and students to live the full and rewarding life that God has called them to. In her spare time Tiia loves to spend time outdoors cycling, kayaking and walking her dog.
Ange Neale
Head of Secondary
Ange, a dedicated educator, is driven by a deep commitment to nurturing young minds through the enriching experience of Christian education. With a fervent passion for pedagogy, she is dedicated to applying best practices to cultivate student autonomy. Ange has taught a diverse array of subjects including Mathematics, Science, and Agriculture, while also providing Instructional Coaching and supporting student well-being. As a leader, Ange desires to empower her colleagues to craft learning environments that unlock the God-given gifts and talents of every student, ensuring ample opportunities for young people to access education in a variety of ways for them to pursue their lifelong passions.
Mark Walter
Head of Teaching & Learning
Having previously worked as an Aquatic Ecologist in South Australia, Mark is passionate about helping students to develop their understanding of God’s creation and their potential to positively impact society. From our littlest learners to our soon to be graduates, he enjoys developing relationships that encourage our students to strive for excellence. Mark has taught across a variety of stages and looks to use this experience to help students as they move through their education journey.
Jennie Cromwell
Assistant Head of Secondary - Senior Coordinator
For 25 years, Jennie has gained extensive experience in Education, holding teaching and leadership roles in various Catholic and Christian mainstream and alternative settings. She has also enjoyed working with young people as a University Lecturer, and Vocational Education Assessor. Jennie holds a Master of Education (Leadership and Management), with research papers in secondary school wellbeing practices. She finds fulfillment in guiding adolescents through their transition to adulthood, viewing it as a divine privilege. Jennie is also a proud parent to two young adults.
Laura Lilley
Primary Teacher
Laura teaches in the Primary school, with a heart particularly for our infants students. She is motivated by ensuring the students in her class feel loved, encouraged and confident in their God-given abilities and to attempt new and challenging learning experiences. Laura has a real passion for play-based learning. She enjoys creating hands-on, multi-sensory activities that accommodate all students within her class. When not at work, Laura enjoys painting, baking and spending time with her young family.
Madeline Bignill
Librarian
Madeline Bignill completed her Bachelor of Creative Writing and Honours in Arts and Design at the University of Canberra. She has attained a PhD (English) from the University of Newcastle with a focus on children’s literature. She is currently serving as Editor-in-Chief of SWAMP magazine. Madeline is passionate about reading and writing, and about instilling a love for these skills in the students she works with. She endeavours to make the library a safe and creative place for the students.
Penelope Billett
Secondary Teacher
Penelope is a Secondary teacher at MCS. It might sound cliche but she believes, “My job is great”. As an educator with a number of years of experience in the field Penelope takes great pride in her work. The essence of teaching is watching young people develop and enjoy the learning experience. Penelope’s joy in working in a Christian school enhances what is performed in her class. She takes great pleasure in teaching and believes it’s an honour to come to work every day.
Lyndal Blatch
Primary Teacher
Lyndal is the Primary Music Teacher. Depending on the lesson, you will find her singing, dancing, or playing a variety of instruments. She loves watching the musical development of children as they grow in their understanding of music. Lyndal is passionate about leading our Primary Choir. She is involved in Sunday Kids Ministry, Monday PlayZone, Women's Life Group and the Music Team at Raymond Terrace Community Church. In her spare time, Lyndal loves to sing and play piano, organise events and create photobooks.
Charlene Coates
Secondary Teacher
Charlene has taught secondary mathematics for well over two decades at a number of Christian schools. Following a mathematics cadetship at BHP in Port Kembla, she worked as a statistician for 4 years before undertaking a Diploma of Education (Mathematics). Charlene enjoys sharing her love of all things mathematical and inspiring her students to discover that ''God used mathematics in creating the world''. She loves coffee, reading, catch-ups with friends and following the Super Netball. Charlene is married to Colin and has two adult children.
Vanessa Cork
Defence Support Mentor
Vanessa loves working with all Defence students from Prep to Year 12, providing social and emotional support. Vanessa provides support during periods of parental deployment absences and upcoming relocations. With qualifications in Ministry, Coaching and Administration, combined with Vanessa's personal life experience, she brings both practical assistance and a pastoral heart to our Defence Service Families. Vanessa's desire is to see all people loved so that they may reach their God given potential.
Amanda Falckh
Secondary Teacher
Amanda Falckh teaches Secondary Music. She has been passionate about music from a young age, and has been inspired by many great music teachers throughout her life. Amanda firmly believes that every student can be musical, and loves providing students with the opportunity to develop musical skills. Her ideal music class has every student on an instrument and having fun doing it. When she’s not making music, you will find Amanda chasing a good sunset photo, or working on her next crochet project.
Peter Fedder
Secondary Teacher
Peter teaches Mathematics to Years 7 to 12. Having a substantial background in the electronics industry has allowed him to easily link Mathematics to practical contexts which students desire to understand. After undertaking training as a pastor, Peter realised that his strengths were in teaching and as a result studied at the University of Newcastle completing a Bachelor in Education. His desire is to make the world of numbers and problem solving relevant to all students and is excited when students see Mathematics in creation.
Lisa Gibson
Secondary Teacher
Lisa teaches English and has served on staff at MCS since 2007. Prior to this, Lisa spent time teaching in Canada and rural NSW. Passionate about education, Lisa strives to give her students a positive experience of literature and learning, and hopes to encourage a lifelong love of both. When she's not teaching, you can find Lisa engrossed in a good book (with a strong cup of coffee). Lisa also enjoys travelling and spending time with her husband and two daughters.
Andrew Gill
Secondary Teacher
A true polymath, Andrew takes pleasure in being able to passionately teach a variety of different subjects across the Secondary school. He attributes this to his deep rooted love for learning. He hopes that his students, too, will be able to see this precious character trait develop in their lives. Having taught for more than 15 years at MCS, Andrew says that it is the unmistakable calling of God in his life and his desire for his students to succeed that brings him back year after year.
Robyn Goldfinch
Secondary Teacher
Robyn teaches English and shares her love of reading and literature with the students from Years 7-12 at Medowie Christian School. She has a passion to foster a love of reading in her students and to develop their literacy skills so that they become effective communicators. Robyn has been deeply committed to Christian education for many years and is privileged to be able to share the Word of God and show the love of Christ within the school community.
Brad Hallett
Primary Teacher
Brad is a committed Christian and a highly experienced teacher with a particular passion for nurturing the academic, social, physical and spiritual development of his students. He believes that his students should be encouraged to approach their learning, and their life, with confidence! Brad's interests include overseas travel, socialising with friends, sport, video games, and of course spending time with his family. Brad is delighted that God has deployed him to Medowie Christian School for His purpose.
Trudy Henderson
Primary Teacher
Trudy is passionate about teaching Biblical truths alongside the curriculum. She has taught at Taree Christian School, Ryde Christian School and has been at Medowie Christian School since 2013. Trudy has also taught English to Kindergarten students in Guangzhou/China from 2002-2012 and thoroughly enjoyed the cultural and professional experience. She finds the energy and enthusiasm young students bring to learning delightful. When not teaching she enjoys gardening and sewing and likes attending Park Runs on Saturday mornings.
Brooke Inwood
Primary Teacher
Brooke has been teaching at Medowie Christian School since 2006. She loves working with students of all ages. Brooke enjoys making connections with God's character, His word and His purpose for us as her students learn about the knowledge content and skills required to meet educational outcomes. Brooke desires to see students thrive in their God-given gifts. She believes it is a privilege to be able to watch her students continue to flourish as they progress into High School and beyond.
Ben Jenkins
Primary Teacher
Ben completed a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) at the University of Newcastle. He is passionate about seeing young people grow in their love for learning as they grow in their understanding of the world around them. He is also passionate about the gospel and loves the opportunity to share the good news about Jesus. Ben loves spending time with his church, running, singing and spending time with loved ones.
Ben Keith
Secondary Teacher
Ben teaches PDHPE in the secondary school at Medowie Christian School.He has a Bachelor of Education from ACPE. Ben enjoys challenging students to step out of their comfort zone and push themselves to grow as young people. He is passionate about sharing Jesus with his students and providing them with opportunities that enhance their physical, academic, social and spiritual development. Ben loves sports of all kinds but particularly Rugby Union, American Football and golf. On weekends, Ben enjoys spending time with his family and watching sport.
Justine MacCormick
Secondary Teacher
Justine teaches Visual Arts and Industrial technology , she has though both national and internationally. Prior to joining MCS she was head of Creative and Performing Arts at and International Baccalaureate school in the ACT. She has degrees in Teaching, Visual Arts, and a Masters of Asia Pacific Studies. Justine has coordinated professional development for schools, regional and international Visual Arts teachers. She has exhibited and is represented in both national and international private art collections. When not teaching she enjoys spending time with her family and restoring furniture.
Debra Nala
Primary Teacher
At age five, Deb decided teaching was the only profession for her. For more than two decades, she has dedicated her days to loving children and doing whatever is needed to help them realise their academic goals, develop flourishing relationships and nurture their faith in Jesus Christ. Deb has held both leadership and teaching positions in South Africa, England and Australia and voluntarily served with Compassion International and Orphan Aid. Apart from teaching, Deb enjoys reading Christian literature, dabbling in arts and crafts and travelling overseas.
Ruben Parraga
Primary Teacher
Ruben is passionate about seeing students discover their identity in God. As a teacher, he values the potential and uniqueness of each student and the calling that God has placed on each of their lives. His heart is to see young people achieve their potential so they can thrive both in their learning and their lives. Ruben is an avid Parramatta Eels and Atletico de Madrid fan. He has a daughter and son, both married, and two granddaughters.
Kathy Patton
Primary Teacher
Kathy brings a rich and diverse educational experience to Medowie Christian School, including working in country NSW in a variety of Christian schools teaching indigenous and non-indigenous students from K-10. She has a passion for developing the unique talents of every individual child in her care. She is a wife and mother of three, whose greatest passion is to share the Gospel and to share the good news of Jesus.
Diane Pietsch
Learning Support Teacher
Diane’s wealth of teaching experiences stretch from working in isolated Indigenous communities in the 'Top End' of the Northern Territory, to the Western and Riverina Regions in rural NSW. Her passion is working alongside and advocating for students with disabilities and special needs. Diane loves spending time with her family and friends and walking her two beagles. She aspires to one day become an author of children's books that will encourage children to be all that God created them to be.
Louisa Ratcliffe
Primary Teacher
Louisa began her teaching career in her home country of the United Kingdom. She is passionate about helping each child to understand that they are unique and made in the image of God. Her favourite times as a teacher are when her students have a 'lightbulb' moment. Louisa is blessed to have three adult children and one still at school who have taught her many useful things. Outside of school, Louisa likes spending time with family and friends, reading and exploring the beautiful Australian outdoors.
Jennifer Weeks
Primary Teacher
Jen began her teaching career in 2002 and has taught in a few different schools in New South Wales. She has completed a Masters of Education with a focus on Information Technology. Jen loves to bring students together collaboratively through the use of technology and desires for all children to understand God’s truths provided through His Word. Jen is married with three children and recently their family has discovered a new-found love of the snow fields, learning to ski together and enjoying God’s wonderful creation.
Jason Wenham
Relief Teacher
After a 17 year career in the Financial Services sector, Jason felt a calling to Primary Teaching and is passionate about making learning enjoyable by understanding where each child is at in their learning journey. Driven by his faith and a heart to serve others, Jason enjoys walking alongside the students as they discover their God given abilities. Jason is married with two young children and enjoys both watching and playing a wide range of sports.
Clare Witenden
Primary Teacher
Clare Witenden teaches in the Primary school. She is currently teaching Kindergarten and has been blessed to have taught at Medowie Christian School for the past 16 years. During this time she has seen the school grow and has also enjoyed seeing many of her students move from Primary School into our High School. She is motivated by reflecting Christ's character through enriching relationships with children and their families. All three of Clare's children have started in Kindy and have moved through to Year 12. Her youngest is in Year 11 and he has mentioned on many occasions “I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”
Michelle Sansom-Sherwill
Secondary Teacher
Having immigrated from South Africa, Michelle has had the unique opportunity to utilise a variety of curricula, including IEB, TAC and Cambridge AS levels. Michelle has also had the pleasure of teaching many different subjects throughout her career, from Second Languages to Drama, which has moulded her distinct approach to teaching. Michelle is a passionate lover of Jesus and this is reflected in her care for her students. Helping them to maximise their potential, and building biblical perspectives into her lessons, is Michelle’s ultimate joy.
Brett Allen
Primary Teacher
Brett has more than 25 years experience in education. He is especially passionate about Infants education and helping students discover their place in God's marvellous creation. Brett enjoys developing relationships that encourage students to take risks in their learning and strive for distinction in all they do. Prior to his career in education, he worked as an electrician in the mining sector. Outside of school, his passions are learning, outdoors and family.
Alan Vayne
Secondary Teacher
Alan began teaching 21 years ago, his teaching career has seen him teach in three school systems including State, Independent, and Catholic. He worked at MCS Previously for 15 years and has returned to us this year. Alan gained his Teaching Degree at The University of Newcastle. He is a Vehicle Builder by trade and has served the military in a reserve capacity. He is also passionate about creating a positive learning culture, getting to know each student as an individual and teaching students skills that can be utilised in a future career.
Matt Ditton
Secondary Teacher
Matt grew up in the western suburbs of Sydney. Completing a Bachelor of Applied Science in geology he worked in the mining industry in WA before returning to Sydney to complete a teaching degree. He has been teaching in Christian education for over 20 years in many roles and across a range of subjects. Matt, his wife and three daughters moved to Port Stephens a couple of years ago as a sea change. Matt loves teaching students about God’s creation through studying science and encourages them to question everything they hear and see.
Joelle Hall
Primary Teacher
Joelle Hall grew up among the rice paddies of South East Asia as what some call 'a third culture kid'. Needing to constantly adapt to new environments, languages and cultures, Joelle developed a love for learning. Teaching Scripture in schools as a part of her gap year infused her desire to study teaching and to get alongside students and support them in their various learning paths. In her spare time, you can find Joelle running around after her little boy, singing songs, drinking tea and optimistically - reading books. She has been at MCS since 2019 and loves the opportunity to share the good news of Jesus with her students.
Gillian Collins
Primary Teacher
Gillian has taught in both public and private education. She has a passion to work with students with diverse learning needs and comes with a broad experience in learning support and special needs classes. Gillian loves to find creative ways to help students reach their potential and to know how God sees and values them. She has lived and worked in Argentina and Uzbekistan, studying languages and teaching English. Gillian loves music, walking on the beach, and drinking coffee with friends.
Dolores Paz Davidson
Spanish Teacher
Since she was a little girl, Dolores felt drawn to teaching and languages, so she became a foreign language teacher right after High School. She has taught English in Argentina and Spanish in the USA. As a teacher, she is committed to helping students become engaged confident learners and achieve their potential by building relationships with the children and encouraging them to discover and develop their God-given talents. She strongly believes that God has a plan for each of us and she loves watching God’s plan unfold as time goes by and we submit to His Will.
Rosalie Feather
Secondary Teacher
Rosalie Feather teaches secondary science and PDHPE. After completing a Bachelor of Medical and Health Science at the University of Wollongong, Rosalie decided to change fields from allied health to teaching and completed a Master of Education. Rosalie has a passion for young people and hopes to inspire them to love sport and the sciences as much as she does. In her spare time you will find Rosalie at the pool or beach, playing social sports and hanging out with friends and family. She started at MCS in 2024 and loves the opportunity to share the good news of Jesus with her students.
Gustav Klopper
Secondary Teacher
With a decade teaching Science and Mathematics, Gustav moved to Australia mid-2023. Previously, he spent 4 years in the Middle East, teaching at leading International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge curriculum schools. Originally from South Africa, Gustav brings valuable international experience and pastoral support. His passion is building strong student relationships, driven by a profound sense of God’s call to education. Recently completing a Master of Science at the University of Southampton (UK), he enjoys studying the intricacies of scientific laws, discovering God’s fingerprint in the process.
Dani McHugh
Primary Teacher
Dani is a primary teacher who is passionate about God’s word and helping students become all that God has called them to be. As a committed Christian, she desires that each child understands how much they are known and loved. Dani loves building relationships with her students and seeing their confidence and excitement in their learning grow. She is married with three daughters and enjoys riding her jet ski and spending time with family and friends at the beach.