Leadership Team

Principal: Noel Creece

Dear SMPS Community:

My name is Noel Creece and I am the proud principal of this wonderful school. I have been involved in the school since before its construction. I started when there were no enrolments and spent part of my first year visiting over 40 Kindergartens door-knocking to find enrolments. 

I am in my 41st year of teaching and my 26th year of being a principal. I have taught in primary schools, secondary schools, middle schools, in the city, in the country, internationally, in small and super-large schools. I have worked across many socio-economic areas and have an unending passion for this profession.

I have two adult children (Adrian and Alexandra) who have completed university and are working in their chosen field. They are the love of my life and I couldn't be prouder of them.  

I want the best for every human associated with SMPS, especially the students and staff who are just fantastic. I am grateful for finding teaching and the gifts it has given me over many years. I look forward to helping make our school its best.

Assistant Principal: Callum Freel

Hi SMPS Families,

My name is Callum and I have been at SMPS since its foundation year in 2018!

I used to teach Maths in High School back home in the UK but SMPS convinced me to teach in a Primary School. SMPS is largely the reason I continued to stay living in Australia.  I am now an Australian Citizen!

In my time at SMPS I have had first-hand experience in a number of different roles. From being a Learning Support Officer in classes, teaching Years 4-6 in the classroom, being a PE teacher and the Specialist Team Leader. For the last 3 and a half years, I have been helping organise everything at school and trying to make it as easy as possible for all our incredible staff to focus on wellbeing and learning! I am excited to continue at the best school in the universe!

In my spare time I love watching/playing sport (basketball and soccer are my favourites), playing board games and visiting new places. My team back home is West Ham United.

I look forward to getting to know more of our wonderful community throughout 2026.

Assistant Principal: Maddy Morrison (Curriculum and Learning)

Hi SMPS Community,

My name is Maddy. I have been at SMPS since 2019, first as a classroom teacher, then as a Learning Specialist and now in an acting Assistant Principal role. I have been leading some of our whole-school work including curriculum development, student learning programs, assessment, reporting and more. 

In 2026, I will be continuing to focus on our curriculum. I will be designing units of work for Prep – Year 6 with a particular focus on Science and Humanities. I am really excited to delve into these subjects and ensure that they are brought to life.

I grew up in Melbourne, in a suburb across the bay called Williamstown. When I’m not at school, I like riding my bike and listening to music. I have a beautiful cat called Shepherd and labrador called Clover. They bring me great joy.

I can’t wait to get to know even more of our SMPS families in 2026. It is going to be a great year!

Leading Teacher: Ciona Cox (Wellbeing, Disabilities and Inclusion)

Hello wonderful SMPS community, 

My name is Miss Ciona and in 2026 I am excited to be stepping into the role of Leading Teacher: Wellbeing, Disabilities and Inclusion. After over ten years teaching and six wonderful years at South Melbourne Primary School, I feel incredibly proud to continue my journey here in this new capacity. 

I am really looking forward to getting to know more students and families across the school and continuing to support inclusive, safe and thriving learning environments. 

I grew up in Scotland with my mum, dad and two older brothers, and spent much of my childhood outdoors exploring the countryside, from castles and snow-covered mountains to always keeping an eye out for the Loch Ness Monster! That love of adventure has stayed with me into adulthood. 

Outside of school, you will often find me exploring the outdoors or enjoying Melbourne’s amazing food scene. I also have a beautiful Australian Shepherd dog named Juniper and I am always happy to share a photo (or five) if you ask! 

I am truly looking forward to another fantastic year at SMPS and to working closely with our students, families and staff in 2026. 

Learning Specialist: Jen Davies (Mental Health in Primary Schools)

Hello Families and Friends of SMPS, 

My name is Miss Jenny. I’ve worked at SMPS since we opened in 2018. I taught Prep for 2 years before changing levels to Year 3/4, and most recently Year 5. I am now out of the classroom in a non-teaching position supporting staff to reach their potential.  I have a daughter called Addy and have just given birth to a son called Percy. They keep me busy!

I am originally from the UK and I am half Welsh. I enjoy running and exercise because it helps me to feel energised. I also like to try out new recipes and try tasty things. Finally, I love the theatre/any kind of show. 

Learning Specialist: Orlaith Kenny (Coaching and Development)

Hello! You met me on the Year 1 page but I will also be part of the Leadership Team in 2026 undertaking tasks in mentoring all staff with pedagogy, routines and classroom management. I am excited to join the leadership team to help improve our already wonderful school.

School Dog: Clover

Hi everyone! I’m Clover, your School Dog.

I’m a 1½-year-old black Labrador. I love coming to school. My favourite things are getting gentle pats, watching kids learn and seeing proud student faces when they show me their work. I also love playing on the forecourt and saying hello to people. 

If you see me around the school, feel free to give me a wave – or a pat if you ask first. 

I can’t wait to share lots of happy days with you. 

Woof for now!

Clover 🐾