Our principal and staff

At Kandos High School, our dedicated team is committed to every student’s learning, wellbeing, and sense of belonging. Together, we foster a supportive and inclusive environment where respect, responsibility, and positive relationships guide all that we do, ensuring every child is equipped to succeed both at school and beyond.

Welcome from our principal

Welcome to Kandos High School, a proud public school at the heart of our rural community, where every student is known, supported, and inspired to thrive. We believe that public education is about opportunity for all, providing a rich, inclusive learning environment built on our core values of Respect, Responsibility, and Positive Relationships. Our dedicated staff bring expertise, care, and creativity to every classroom, ensuring each child has the confidence to aim high and achieve their goals.

Here in our stunning rural setting, students benefit from a strong sense of belonging, meaningful community connections, and real-world learning that prepares them for life beyond school. I invite you to explore our website and discover the difference a Kandos High School education can make for your child.

Mrs. Deb Johnston
Relieving Principal, Kandos High School

Our school leaders

Our leadership team plays a vital role in guiding our teachers and students. Together, they foster a positive, inclusive school culture where every student feels supported, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Our teaching staff

Our teaching staff are dedicated professionals who bring expertise, care, and creativity to every classroom. They inspire curiosity, build confidence, and nurture each student’s individual strengths. With high expectations and genuine support, our teachers help every child achieve their personal best and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Our teaching staff

In alphabetical order:

  • Mrs. Britt Anderson, Science, Year Advisor for Class of 2029
  • Mr. Simon Andrews, Mathematics, HSIE
  • Ms. Leanne Besant, Mathematics
  • Mrs. Helen Fuller, Librarian
  • Miss. Brooke Garland, PDHPE, PASS, SLR, Year Advisor for Class of 2031
  • Mr. Trevor Hopkins, Support Unit
  • Mrs. Deb Johnston, Relieving Principal, Agriculture, Primary Industries
  • Mr. Andrew Kiely, Head Teacher Mathematics, Year Advisor for Class of 2030
  • Ms. Johanna May, English
  • Mr. Anthony McDonald, English, HSIE
  • Mrs. Toni Newitt, Support Unit
  • Mrs. Nicole O'Brien, Head Teacher Support Unit
  • Mrs. Julie Parsons, Hospitality, WEHD, Year Advisor for Class of 2026
  • Mrs. Shannon Prosser, Visual Arts, Visual Design, HSIE
  • Mrs. Kerry Reynolds, PDHPE, CAFS, Year Advisor for Class of 2028
  • Mr. Rod San Martin, English
  • Ms. Karen Simpson, Head Teacher Science, Science, Biology
  • Ms. Theresa Therese, Music, LOTE
  • Mr. Machael Vaughan, Head Teacher Technical and Applied Studies, Industrial Technologies, Year Advisor for Class of 2025
  • Mrs. Natasha Vidler, Support Unit, Year Advisor for Class of 2027
  • Mrs. Marion Crossman, Casual Teacher
  • Mr. Mathew Curtis, Casual Teacher
  • Mr. Nick Nassis, Casual Teacher
  • Miss. Bethany Vidler, Casual Teacher
  • Mrs. Robyn Walsh, Casual Teacher

Subject Abbreviation Key:

HSIEHuman Society and Its Environment (includes History, Geography, Commerce, and related subjects)

PDHPEPersonal Development, Health and Physical Education

PASSPhysical Activity and Sports Studies

SLRSport, Lifestyle and Recreation Studies

WEHDWork Education / Work, Education and Human Development

CAFSCommunity and Family Studies

LOTELanguages Other Than English

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.

Our wellbeing and school support staff
  • Mrs. Alisa Burlington, School Learning Support Officer
  • Mrs. Melissa Dunn, School Learning Support Officer
  • Mr. Andrew Furness, School Learning Support Officer
  • Mrs. Kara Kiely, School Learning Support Officer
  • Miss. Gina McDonald, School Learning Support Officer
  • Mrs. Penny Mundey, School Learning Support Officer
  • Mrs. Nerelie Nelson, School Learning Support Officer
  • Mr. Felikks Sander, School Learning Support Officer
  • Mrs. Leigh-Anne Thorn, School Learning Support Officer - Wellbeing
  • Mrs. Sherie Thorn, School Learning Support Officer - Wellbeing
  • Miss. Lucy Waddell, School Learning Support Officer

Administrative and operations staff

Our administrative and operations team are the friendly faces that keep Kandos High School running seamlessly. From the front office to behind the scenes, they provide vital support to students, staff, and families every day. Their dedication ensures our school remains organised, welcoming, and ready for learning.

Our administrative and operations staff
  • Miss. Tracey Bell, School Administrative Officer
  • Miss. Amelia Brown, Farm Assistant
  • Mrs. Deborah Degoumois, School Administrative Officer
  • Mrs. Suezie Faulkner, School Administrative Manager
  • Miss. Belinda Innes, School Administrative Officer Communications and Technical Support Officer
  • Mr. Gregory Jamieson, General Assistant
  • Mrs. Janette Murray, School Administrative Officer
  • Mrs. Kylie Reddish, School Administrative Officer
  • Miss. Nicole Riley, School Administrative Officer
  • Mrs. Melanie Moore, School Administrative Manager

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly Front Office team is always happy to help you get in touch with the right person. As our staff are often in class teaching during school hours, the Principal, Head Teachers, Year Advisors, and Classroom Teachers are available by appointment. Our office staff will check their availability and arrange a time that works for everyone.

Contact us to organise an appointment or find out more.

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.