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.
Principal's message
Ballina Coast High School is a community built on strong relationships. When students feel known, supported and connected, they can do their best and be their best.
Our values of kindness, empathy, self-regulation, collaboration, and communication guide how we learn, treat each other and grow together. They remind us that, whether we are teachers or students, we are all humans learning together — growing through respect, curiosity, and shared experience.
We're proud of our students' voice and the role they play in shaping our school. They are encouraged to share ideas, take initiative and be active contributors to school life. This sense of ownership helps them grow in confidence and ensures our school reflects the voices of those within it.
We have an abundance of opportunity at Ballina Coast High School and, because we know every learner is unique, we take great care to nurture young people so they learn well, live well and make a positive difference in their world.
Peter Howes, Principal of Ballina Coast High School
Our school leaders
Our school leaders, including our principal, guide teachers and students. They help to create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.
Deputy Principal Years 7 & 10
Aaron McDonald
Deputy Principal Years 8, 11 & Support
Lachlan Klose
Deputy Principal Years 9 & 12
Jesse Coates
Our teaching staff
At Ballina Coast High School, our staff are the heart of our vibrant learning community. Committed to Empowering Learners, Shaping Great Humans our team of highly caring, innovative, and skilled teachers and support professionals work collaboratively to inspire and support every student. Our staff are not only educators but mentors who guide students to become confident, compassionate, and resilient individuals ready to make a positive impact in the world.
- English - Claire Sandrey (Relieving)
- Mathematics - Renae Wood
- Human Society & Its Environment (HSIE) - Maria Bramley-O'Connor
- Science - Benjamin White (Relieving)
- Creative & Performing Arts (CAPA) - Janet Andrews-Engle
- Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) - Martin Smith
- Technological & Applied Studies (TAS) - Odette Aitchson
- Support Centre - Jodie Crowther
- Teaching & Learning - Sonya Soulsby
- Wellbeing - Kirrily Myers
- Aboriginal Education - Raelene Fox
- Administration & Careers - Donna Ryan
- Big Picture Academy - Shelley Keenan
Contact our school to learn more about our teaching team.
Our teachers make the difference
Committed to your child's success
Our teachers are committed to ensuring 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. Many hold advanced accreditation ensuring high-quality learning experiences for your child.
Teachers who never stop learning
Our teachers are lifelong learners. They undertake regular professional learning to stay at the forefront of educational research and practices.
Teacher – family partnerships
Our teachers build trust through clear communication. Our families can feel confident their child has strong support around them ensuring they are free 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.
- Wellbeing - Kirrily Myers (Head Teacher)
- Student Support Officer - Tina Peate
- Counsellors - Sue Huxley & Stephen Rollison
- Wellbeing & Health In-reach Nurse (WHIN) - Phoebe Meneer
Contact our school to learn about our wellbeing and support staff and what they can do to support your child's needs.
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 - Wendy Brindley
- Administration Manager - Beverly Maher (Relieving)
- Work Health & Safety Officer - Jim Czislowski
Contact our school to learn about our administrative and operations staff.
Have a question for our principal or teachers?
Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.
Learning support
Find out how we support students with disability or additional learning needs.
Stories and highlights
Hear about our stories, wins and proud moments from our staff and students.