Our principal and staff

Our Waratah Campus team is committed to every student’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging. We work together to create a supportive and inclusive campus where every child is set up for success.

A welcome message from our campus principal

Welcome to Callaghan College Waratah Campus

We are proud to offer a vibrant and inclusive learning community for students in Years 7 to 10. Our campus brings together young people from many cultures and backgrounds – including First Nations families, new arrivals to Australia, and generations of local families who continue to trust us with their children’s education.

Learning sits at the heart of all we do. Our students enjoy a rich and engaging curriculum, delivered by dedicated teachers who inspire curiosity and confidence. We provide a wide range of academic, creative, sporting and cultural programs, along with High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) opportunities that extend and challenge students to achieve at the highest levels. Whether through classroom learning, enrichment projects or leadership programs, every student is encouraged to explore their interests and thrive.

We are committed to developing capable, compassionate young people who are ready to take their place in the world. By the time our students move on to Callaghan College Jesmond Senior Campus for Years 11 and 12, they do so with the knowledge, skills and self-belief to shape their own futures.

I warmly invite you to visit our campus and experience the sense of community, purpose and pride that makes Waratah Campus such a special place to learn.

Nicole Avard
Campus Principal (Rel.)

Our campus leaders

Our school leaders, including our principal, deputy principal and head teachers guide teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.

Our Head Teachers

Staff name
Role at Callaghan Waratah
Lisa Panozza
Teaching and Learning Head Teacher
Judy Brown
Admin Technology Head Teacher (Rel.)
Kaylie Newell
English Head Teacher
Dan Mani
CAPA Head Teacher
Mark Maclean
HSIE Head Teacher
Ian Andrew
Mathematics Head Teacher (Rel.)
Allison Blight
PDHPE Head Teacher
Chris Ellul
Science Head Teacher (Rel.)
Lisa Pacey
Special Education Head Teacher
Elly Summers
TAS Head Teacher (Rel.)
Veronica Dekort
Teaching and Learning (Inclusion) Head Teacher
Amy Worth
Wellbeing Head Teacher (Rel.)

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 take pride in providing a welcoming and accessible learning environment to every child.

Staff name
Role at Callaghan Waratah
Ashleigh Beavan
Deputy Principal Inclusion and Support
Amy Worth
Wellbeing Head Teacher (Rel.)
Veronica Dekort
Teaching and Learning (Inclusion) Head Teacher
Renae Simmons
Learning & Support Teacher
Anjella Bunn
Learning & Support Teacher
Kerrin Bianchi
Learning & Support Teacher
Chris Jonas
School Counsellor
Claire Hinchey
School Counsellor
Melissa Griffin
Student Support Officer

2026 Year advisors

Staff name/s
Role at Callaghan Waratah

Sheena Roberts

Nick Goodfellow

Year 7 Advisors

Hannah Post

Hayley Banks

Year 8 Advisors

Jasmin Starke

Ali Waistell

Year 9 Advisors

Alex Styles

Rachel Newstead

Year 10 Advisors

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

Learning

Find out about our approach to learning and supporting students to progress.

Travel to school

Learn about local transport options and how to get here safely.