Joining our community : Part 1

We are delighted to have several new staff join our community this year, with a great breadth of experience from teaching and beyond. Over the next couple of newsletters we will bring you a short introduction to each of them.

Please say hello when you see them around.

Philip Adams

My name is Phil Adams and I have joined the NHS team in 2024 as an Assistant Principal. For the last 4 years, I have been the Middle School Assistant Principal at Edgars Creek Secondary College, where a strong focus was on the building and establishment of a new school in a rapidly growing suburb; ECSC is currently the fastest growing school in the North West of Melbourne. I have over 20 years experience as a teacher and educational leader in schools across the outer northern suburbs of Melbourne. My passion for teaching and leadership is to make a positive contribution to the lives of the young people in our community. Outside of teaching, I have been a musician and sound engineer, however, these days my only performances are at the staff end of year concert. I look forward to developing strong connections within the Northcote High community, building positive relationships with families, students and staff.

Imogen Lazarus

My name is Imogen Lazarus, I have always lived on Wurundjeri country, and I am excited to be joining NHS as the Leading Teacher for VCE Curriculum and Pedagogy. I am an English and Italian teacher and have worked in Catholic and Government schools in Melbourne for the past 10 years. Literacy education and literacy-informed teaching practice is my jam; I am currently undertaking a PhD in curriculum studies, focusing on how we teach knowledge about language in Australian schools. I am looking forward to becoming part of the NHS community and working with all students to have positive, meaningful and successful learning experiences in secondary education and beyond.

Camille Hudson

I have been a Teacher of Health and Physical Education for eight years. I am passionate about helping all students establish a love of sport and movement so they can be the happiest and healthiest version of themselves. I was Head of Sport for two years at my previous school and I am most proud of increasing participation rates to two out of every three students. I am most looking forward to learning and growing within the school community and working within a department that works collaboratively. I welcome every opportunity to discuss innovative ideas and diverse perspectives in order to continually refine my teaching methods and enhance learning outcomes.

Rachel Salter

Hello! I am very excited about joining the NHS community. I have been teaching for 13 years following a career as a chef resulting in having a lot of passion about the art of cooking and its ability to bring people together through the joy of shared meals. Sharing my knowledge and skills with students allows me to contribute to the growth of future culinary talents, fostering a community that appreciates the art and science of cooking and how we can build a sustainable food system for future generations.

Creating a positive learning environment is a cornerstone of my approach to teaching. I believe in the transformative power of education and the impact it can have on individuals and communities. I am committed to fostering inclusivity in the classroom, celebrating diversity, and creating a space where every student feels welcome and represented. I strongly believe that valuing the unique perspectives and backgrounds of each student contributes to a richer and more vibrant learning experience.

As a dedicated culinary enthusiast, I find joy in exploring eateries in and around the city and trying new and traditional dishes (although I do not like seafood!). When I'm not in the kitchen or on a culinary adventure, you'll likely find me engrossed in a good book, on a travelling adventure or at the footy cheering on my favourite team.

Kara Tottenham

As a teacher I have always believed in the power of student agency, voice, and pride. My teaching philosophy revolves around nurturing creative, critical, and empathetic thinking, aiming to shape socially responsible leaders within both local and wider communities. Throughout my career at my previous school, Strathmore Secondary College, I contributed to the school community through a range of roles and responsibilities. I have been Student Management Coordinator, Student Leadership Coordinator among other roles. My teaching background spans various subjects and year levels, including English, Media and Drama. I am committed to my professional growth and have recently enhanced my skills through specialized training in Auslan and First Nations cultural awareness. These experiences have solidified the inclusive nature of my teaching approach, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for all students. I am excited about the prospect of engaging with your school-led professional learning program, particularly in Berry Street's trauma-informed practice. I look forward to teaching English as part of the Northcote Model, especially creative writing at Year 10 and ‘The Graveyard Book’ at year 7. I am passionate about First Nations issues and advocacy through education, so I look forward to the cultural creek walk in the year 7 humanities classes.

Instrumental Music Program

Come and join the fun