Staff Farewell

Jane Barlow

We warmly farewell Jane, who joined our school as Maths Leader in 2023 and now leaves us to take on an exciting new role as Deputy Principal. While we are sad to see her go, we are incredibly proud of her achievement and thrilled to see her step into this next stage of leadership.

During her time with us, Jane shared her deep love of mathematics, inspiring both staff and students with her passion for teaching and learning. Her skill in analysing and presenting data helped drive meaningful improvements in student outcomes, and her clarity, insight, and strategic thinking strengthened our whole-school approach to numeracy.

Known for her exceptional organisational skills, she supported colleagues in every aspect of school life. Her great sense of humour, fun-loving nature, and ability to make learning enjoyable created a positive and energetic atmosphere wherever she went. As the leader of our Student Leadership Program, she guided students with warmth and purpose, helping them grow in confidence and capability.

Her presence in classrooms, motivating teachers, modelling effective practice, and encouraging students has made a lasting impact. Jane has been a valued member of our community, and her contributions will continue to shape our teaching and learning long after she steps into her new role.

We thank her sincerely for all she has brought to our school and wish her every success as she begins her journey as Deputy Principal at Holy Cross in Gisborne.

Elle Pace

Elle returned to St Carlo’s this year as a Year 3 teacher and has wholeheartedly embraced every aspect of her role, demonstrating exceptional dedication and professionalism. Highly organised and deeply committed, she has consistently planned engaging and meaningful learning experiences for her students. Her ability to build strong, trusting relationships has allowed her students to thrive, and she continually goes above and beyond to help each child reach their full potential.

Elle’s compassion, kindness, and gentle manner are truly admirable. The children look to her for guidance and support, and she leads them with patience, warmth, and positivity. Her “never-give-up” attitude and enthusiastic approach to every task have made her not only an outstanding teacher but also a wonderful colleague. Her team, along with the wider staff, have greatly valued her collaborative spirit and her passion for creating the best possible experiences for our students.

Elle has also contributed wholeheartedly to all school events, offering her support with genuine pride and enthusiasm. We are deeply grateful for everything she has given over the past year. Her great sense of humour, inspiring teaching, and treasured friendship will be sorely missed at St Carlo’s.

Congratulations, Elle. We wish her every success as she continues her teaching journey as a Year 7 and 8 teacher at St Monica’s Secondary College in Epping.

Wishing you all the very best for the future.

Esther Materia

We extend our heartfelt thanks and warmest wishes to Esther as she concludes her time at our school. Joining us in 2024 as a support English teacher for the Year 2 team and as a literacy intervention teacher for the junior school, she brought with her a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and passion. Most recently, Esther has been a classroom teacher in Year 3P every Friday passing on her competent skills to the students in her care.

Throughout her time here, Esther made a remarkable impact on student learning. Her expertise in early literacy significantly supported our young learners as they developed vital reading and writing skills. She thoughtfully planned and modelled effective teaching practices, lifting the quality of instruction across the team.

In addition to her classroom work, Esther generously mentored a graduate teacher, offering guidance, encouragement, and professional wisdom. Her willingness to share her experience strengthened our staff community and supported the growth of others.

A valued and enthusiastic member of our school, she embraced all aspects of school life with positivity and commitment. We will miss her warmth, professionalism, and collaborative spirit.

We thank Esther for her outstanding contributions and wish her every success in the next chapter of her career as a Junior teacher at Carlo Acutis in Wollert.

Mardeen Mikhael

Mardeen joined St Carlo Borromeo school at the beginning of 2025 to take on the position of Year 6 teacher.  From the moment she walked into our school community, it was evident that she possessed a love of teaching and an attitude for nurturing our young children to become the best possible students. She has such a passion for creating engaging and exciting activities in which the children collaborate and share in the fun. 

This year, Mardeen has participated and been involved in all our school events, supporting her colleagues and being a respected member of the team. She has contributed so much to the life of our school and we thank her for all her support. Mardeen has developed great relationships with students and parents and has maintained positive communication with families so that her students feel valued and ready to learn. 

We thank Mardeen for all the contributions she has made to our wonderful school. We will miss her and her amazing smile but know that many will keep in touch with her as strong friendships have formed during her time at our school. We pass on our congratulations to Mardeen as she takes on her new adventure of teaching and travelling overseas!  We wish her all the very best for the future.