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.
Welcome from our principal
“Welcome to Five Islands School, a special school located on Lake Macquarie.
Five Islands School is a NSW government school that caters for students with moderate/severe intellectual disabilities and multiple disabilities.
Our school provides a friendly, inclusive atmosphere for students from preschool age to Year 12.
School staff work collaboratively with families and carers to deliver innovative, quality learning experiences that enable students to work towards their personalised learning priorities and achieve curriculum outcomes from NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA).
Our aim is to provide our students with an education that caters for a diverse range of needs and provide opportunities that will support their learning and development beyond school.”
Clare Fleming,
Principal of Five Islands School
Our school leaders
Our school leaders, including our principal, guide teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.
Ali Landers
Assistant Principal
Meg Murray
Assistant Principal
Emma Sable
Assistant Principal (Relieving) / Assistant Principal, Curriculum & Instruction (Relieving)
Our teaching staff
Your child’s school experience is shaped by the people around them. Our teachers bring experience, care and a passion for learning to every lesson. With a focus on success, they help every child reach their full potential.
- Meg Murray - Eaglehawk Class
- Melissa Shannon - Lyrebird Class
- Kimberely Sparkes - Lorikeet Class
- Danielle Mather - Kookaburra Class
- Henry Gibson - Rosella Class
- Chloe Chambers - Pelican Class
- Adriana Viola - Magpie Class
- Andrew Cooper - Emu Class
- Stacey Moffitt - Tawny Frog Mouth
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.
- Nick McMinn - Eaglehawk SLSO
- Toni Forbes- Lyrebird SLSO/First Aid Officer
- Sam Byrnes - Lyrebird/Magpie SLSO
- Natalie Scales - Lorikeet SLSO/First Aid Officer
- Tanya Nudd - Lorikeet SLSO
- Donna Nicoll - Kookaburra SLSO/First Aid Officer
- Luke McPherson - Rosella SLSO
- Sally Ellenor - Pelican SLSO/First Aid Officer
- Tanya Nudd - Pelican SLSO
- Emily Castles - Magpie SLSO
- Danni Brokenshire - Emu SLSO/First Aid Officer
- Sam Byrnes - Tawny Frog Mouth SLSO
- Lauren Cohen - School Counsellor
- David O'mara - General Assistant
Contact our school to learn about our wellbeing and support staff
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.
- Donna Harrison - School Administrative Manager
- Jacqui Parkinson - School Administrative Officer
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.
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.