As we approach the end of the year, I would like to provide a summary of the staffing announcements previously shared across recent newsletters. This brings together all updates in one place and allows us to once again thank the staff who are completing their time at St Andrew’s.

Mrs Emma Strom

We farewell Mrs Emma Strom, our Deputy Principal and Religious Education Leader, who will be taking up a learning and teaching leader position at St Mary’s, Hastings. Emma has made a significant contribution to St Andrew’s through her strong leadership, commitment to student wellbeing, and deep care for families and staff. We thank her sincerely and wish her every blessing as she begins this new role.

Mrs Daniella Polites

At the end of this year, we also say goodbye to Mrs Daniella Polites, who will be moving to St Mary’s School in Hastings. Daniella has dedicated many years to St Andrew’s, consistently offering kindness, professionalism and genuine care for her students. We are deeply grateful for her longstanding service and wish her every success in her new chapter.

Mrs Holly Capomolla

We share in the joy of Mrs Holly Capomolla as she prepares to welcome her first baby. Holly will finish at the end of the year as she begins parental leave. Her leadership in Learning Diversity and Literacy has had a positive and lasting impact on student learning. We thank Holly for her dedication and wish her every blessing during this exciting time.

Ms Tahira Tannen

Ms Tahira Tannen will begin a 12-month leave of absence at the end of this year. Tahira has contributed greatly to the learning and wellbeing of the students she has worked with, and we hope that her leave is both refreshing and fulfilling. We look forward to welcoming her back in 2027.

Mr Martin Darcy

We farewell Mr Martin Darcy, who joined us mid-year to teach 5/6V. Martin will finish his contract at the end of the year as he embarks on travel back home to Ireland and new teaching opportunities overseas. We thank Martin for his positive contribution and wish him well in his future adventures.

Lisa Babiak

We also acknowledge and thank Lisa Babiak, who has now finished her time at St Andrew’s working as a leanring suppoort officer (LSO). Lisa has worked primarily in the junior years, where she has supported our youngest learners with patience, compassion and consistency. Her quiet dedication and the strong relationships she formed with students have been greatly appreciated. We wish Lisa all the best for the future and thank her for the care she has given to so many children.

Fiona McNally

We also farewell Fiona McNally, who has taught our Prep students this year. Fiona will be moving closer to home on the other side of the Westgate. Fiona has been a wonderful presence in our Prep classrooms, providing nurturing support and fostering a love of learning in our youngest students. We thank Fiona for her dedication and wish her every happiness as she continues her teaching journey.

Personal Thanks

I would like to personally extend my heartfelt thanks to Emma Strom for the incredible support she has provided throughout my first year as Principal. Emma has been a true mentor and partner in leadership, offering guidance, wisdom, and encouragement at every step. From navigating complex challenges to celebrating successes, she has been a steady and reassuring presence. Her generosity of spirit, deep care for students, and unwavering commitment to our school community have made a profound difference—not just to me, but to everyone at St Andrew’s. I feel truly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work so closely with her, and I am immensely grateful for all she has done to support our school this year. Emma, your leadership, kindness, and dedication will be greatly missed, and I wish you every success and happiness in your new role.

Each staff member mentioned—those departing or transitioning—has made a meaningful contribution to our school. We hold them all in our thoughts, gratitude and prayers as they begin new journeys. Thank you for your continued support as we move forward together as a community of faith and learning.

Regards

Brian Martin

Principal

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