Our principal and staff
Our school team is dedicated to supporting each student’s learning, wellbeing, and sense of belonging. We collaborate to build a welcoming and inclusive environment where every child is positioned to succeed.
Welcome to Sandon Public School
Welcome to Sandon Public School!
It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I welcome you to our vibrant school community. At Sandon Public School, we believe every child deserves a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment where they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Equity and Inclusion at Sandon Public School
Equity and inclusion are fundamental to our school values. We believe that a truly successful education system is one that recognises and respects diversity and ensures fairness for all students. This means we actively work to remove barriers that may prevent any child from accessing quality education or fully participating in the life of the school.
Celebrating Diversity
Our school community is wonderfully diverse, representing many cultural, linguistic, and socio-economic backgrounds. We celebrate this rich tapestry through cultural events, multilingual programs, and inclusive curricula that reflect and respect different perspectives. This diversity enriches our learning environment and helps build empathy and global awareness among our students.
Supporting All Learners
We recognise that students learn in different ways and at different paces. Our teaching teams use a range of strategies and resources to differentiate instruction, ensuring that every student can engage meaningfully with the curriculum. We provide targeted support for students with additional learning needs, including those with disabilities, learning difficulties, or English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D).
Creating a Safe and Respectful Environment
Inclusion means more than access to learning; it means belonging. We are committed to fostering a school culture where all students feel safe, respected, and valued. Anti-bullying programs, wellbeing initiatives, and student leadership opportunities help to promote kindness, resilience, and positive relationships across the school community.
Partnership with Families and Community
We believe that education is a partnership between the school, families, and the wider community. We encourage open communication and invite families to be actively involved in school activities, decision-making forums, and learning programs. Together, we build a supportive network that benefits all students.
I am committed to leading a school where equity and inclusion are lived values, guiding our policies, programs, and everyday interactions. I encourage you to engage with our staff, participate in school events, and share your ideas so we can continue to grow and improve as a community.
Thank you for choosing Sandon Public School.
Denise Smoother, Principal of Sandon Public School
Our school leaders
Our school leaders, led by our principal, provide guidance to both teachers and students. They foster a school culture that supports every child’s growth and success.
Our teaching staff
Your child’s school experience is shaped by the incredible people around them. Our teachers are highly skilled, deeply caring, and passionate about inspiring a love of learning in every student. With their expertise and dedication, they create engaging lessons that motivate and challenge students, ensuring each child is empowered to reach their full potential and achieve outstanding success.
- Purple Class - Lindy Commens,
- Aqua Class - Linda McEnerny
- Blue Class - Jane Palfreyman
- Gold Class - Belinda Clark
- Silver Class - Tilly Commens
- Crimson Class - Cassandra Shepherdson
- Pink Class - Elysha Eccleston
- Orange Class - Sandy Strijland
- Green Class - Kylie Debreceny
- Curriculum and Instruction - Alisha Dunne
- PDHPE / Sport - Jay Sisson
- Science & Technology - Tara Kitchener
- RFF - Iliane Beuke
- RFF - April Kelson
- Small Group Tuition - Molly Commens
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.
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.
- Melinda Commens, Leader of Wellbeing
- Sherona Ingersoll, School Psychologist
- Julie Dawson, School Learning Support Officer
- Chrissy Vale, School Learning Support Officer
- Jessica Bourne, School Learning Support Officer
- Abby Jackson, School Learning Support Officer
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.
- Nicole Rooke, School Administration Manager
- Melissa Hackett, School Administration Officer
- Amanda Harris, School Administration Officer
- Deborah Baigent, School Administration Officer
- Grant Marshall, General Assistant
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.