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

Male principal in suit and tie standing with a female student as she receives an award. Both are smiling at someone off screen.

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.

Principal
Peter Howes
Deputy Principal Years 7 & 10
Jesse Coates
Deputy Principal Years 8 & 11
Aaron McDonald
Deputy Principal Years 9, 12 & Support
Lachlan Klose

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.

Our Head Teachers
  • 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
  • Learning & Support - Sonya Soulsby
  • Wellbeing - Kirsty Cameron (Relieving)
  • Aboriginal Education - Raelene Fox
  • Administration & Careers - Donna Ryan
  • Big Picture Academy - Shelley Keenan

Contact our school to learn more about our teaching team.

Our Year Advisors
  • Year 7 - Aleesha Cockfield
  • Year 8 - Patrick Byrnes
  • Year 9 - Aden Haywood
  • Year 10 - Averil Waite
  • Year 11 - Kirsty Cameron
  • Year 12 - Ashton Tselepy

Our teachers make the difference

Female teacher hugging and smiling at the two female students either side of her who are both holding a bunch of flowers and small gift

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.

Two students laughing with their hospitality teacher while making tarts

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.

Ballina Coast High students on a screen being greeted by a presenter on the stage of a teachers' conference

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.

Students talking and smiling with one of our smiling school learning support officers

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.

Our wellbeing and support staff
  • Wellbeing - Kirsty Cameron (Relieving)
  • Student Support Officer - Tina Peate
  • Counsellors
  • Wellbeing & Health In-reach Nurse (WHIN)

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.

Our administrative and operations staff
  • Business Manager - Wendy Brindley
  • School Administration Manager - Beverly Maher
  • 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.

Contact us

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Learning support

Find out how we support students with disability or additional learning needs.

Group of students standing around a table with miniature furniture and people. A badge over the top of the photo announces excellence awardee for the Innovation in Learning Environment Design at the Australian Education Awards 2026

Stories and highlights

Hear about our stories, wins and proud moments from our staff and students.