Introducing our School Council Members 

Nuray Tasci, School Council Parent Member

After joining the School Council in 2020, I have had the pleasure to take part in excelling North Melbourne Primary School’s vision to a higher level of achievement. In essence, our role as councillors is to assist long term future developments by building the school’s strategic plan to reflect, not only our school and all its students but to also involve our diverse community in making this happen.

Having a son, Eren in Year 3, a daughter in Year 9 and being a teacher myself, I also take part in the Education sub-committee of the school council and understand the educational needs of children of all ages as I am a qualified Kindergarten, Primary and Secondary School teacher. I love learning, listening and engaging in helping others to achieve their desired goals. This helps me meet people of various ages and backgrounds to apply my knowledge to my teaching.

I am also currently undertaking further studies in Psychology to broaden and further delve into the understanding of the various learning developments throughout the stages of life. I take part in putting forward my knowledge and experience while also representing the wider community.

Being part of this great community, I have seen the amazing efforts everyone has put towards NMPS. We welcome those who would love to jump on board in taking part by supporting this growth. Hence, feel free to reach out when you see me pick up Eren as I am generally around gate 5, ready for a chat or I can be contacted via email through nuray@tasci.com.au.

Simeon Branca, School Council Parent Member & PFA Convenor

I’m Simeon Branca - I grew up on the northern fringe of Melbourne, and now live in North Melbourne where I work in the world of construction. Jessica and I have two kids at NMPS: Anders and Sofia, who love the school, its teachers, and students.

I’m the Convenor of the Parents and Friends Association (PFA). The PFA organises and holds events that bring the NMPS community together, helps new parents get involved with the community, and raises funds for the school along the way. Unusual and quiet as the last year or so has been, the PFA is dedicated to getting more events happening; things might get postponed but they will not disappear. Our planned Cultural Workshops might have been slowed down a bit, but they won’t be stopped – watch this space, and tell us what events you want to see happening, whether you want to get involved yourself, or simply want to make a suggestion.

A couple of my parent's generation went to NMPS (they all affectionately call it Errol Street) as their first school, from the 1950s. This introduction taught them English, tree-climbing, and all about Australia. It is fantastic to see this tradition continuing with NMPS’s very diverse base of languages and backgrounds today. 

The PFA is very enthusiastic about being as inclusive as we can be to everyone. 

The PFA is also very keen to hear from you; please get in touch with us at north.melbourne.ps.committee@gmail.com.

Sarah Nightingale, School Council Executive Officer

My name is Sarah Nightingale, and I am the Principal of North Melbourne Primary School. My role on the school council is the council’s executive officer. Part of this role is to work closely with the school council president and other members, acting as a team, to enhance the educational opportunities for all our students.

I enjoy our school council meetings as it gives me a chance to hear the views from the community via the school council members as well as focus on efficient governance of the school and work towards our vision.

As I have mentioned before, I believe the relationships between families and the school are vital to the success of our students, so I encourage all members of our community to contribute through conversation and positive input. Speaking to our school council members is one avenue in which families can do this, so please feel free to reach out at any time.

Hilary Guymer, School Council Employee Member 

I’m Hilary Guymer. I have been fortunate to work at NMPS for the past three years, in Year 4 and 5. Living and working in North Melbourne, I love the strong sense of community. This year, I’ve really enjoyed working with Year five students and teachers. I’m most looking forward to taking the Year 5 ski camp, and starting cooking in Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program next term. 

If you see me around North Melbourne, walking my dog Luna, feel free to say hello! 

Gabi Panozzo, School Council Employee Member 

My name is Gabi Panozzo and I am Acting Assistant Principal at NMPS. I have felt thoroughly welcomed by the students and their families since I joined the NMPS team in 2019. Greeting families at the Flex gate each morning last year, was such a joyful way to start each day, and remains one of my NMPS highlights.

Literacy is my area of interest and expertise. I recently completed a Master of Literacy Education (2020) and a Master of Education (2016) at The University of Melbourne. Throughout both of these degrees, I have maintained a focus on both literacy and curriculum leadership in a Primary School setting. 

I have worked predominately as an Early Year’s teacher  (Prep to Year 2) at various schools, but have also led whole school curriculum development and professional learning. My favorite thing about being a teacher is witnessing that moment when a student realises that they understand a new concept or idea. Seeing the pride and joy on their faces is nothing short of a privilege.

As a new member of the NMPS School Council, I am looking forward to building strong partnerships between the school and the community to enhance the educational opportunities for all of our students. One of my roles is to convene the Education Sub-Committee. Through this forum, we will communicate our school’s curriculum, assessment, and teaching approach with families, to support us in achieving improved outcomes for all students.