2026 Year 3

3A: Jess Hobbs (Team Leader)

Hello SMPS Families,  

My name is Jess Hobbs. I have been teaching at SMPS since it opened in 2018. It is a pleasure to come to work every day and be immersed in the wonderful culture of SMPS. 

I absolutely adore my Cockatiel named Rafa. He loves to play with his toys, munch on his bird food and tweet away at the sounds in the environment. I also have a cat. Her name is Mistie. She enjoys taking long naps and scratches under the chin. 

I enjoy going to the gym, reading books and eating lots of yummy food, especially pizza and anything made with Nutella! Sometimes, those two foods can be combined to make a delicious Nutella pizza!

I hope you have a wonderful holiday and I look forward to seeing you all next year.

3B: Orlaith Flanagan

Hello SMPS Students and Families,

My name is Miss Orlaith, and I am thrilled to be your child’s teacher at South Melbourne Primary School in 2026. This will be my 6th year in teaching, and my first full year in SMPS. I have been working at SMPS as a casual relief teacher since July, and since my first day here, it has been such a lovely place to be. I am really looking forward to getting to know each and every one of you and your families. 

I grew up on the west coast of Ireland in Sligo, surrounded by beaches and traditional Irish music. I am the eldest of four, with three younger brothers – one living in Dubai and two at home in Ireland. I began my teaching career in Ireland before moving to Melbourne in 2024.

Outside of school, my favourite thing to do is discovering new coffee spots with friends. I also love running, exploring Victoria’s hiking trails, and attending Pilates classes. 

I hope you have a wonderful summer, and I can’t wait to see you in 2026.

Warmest regards,

Miss Orlaith

3C: Lauren Lowe

Hello SMPS students and parents/carers!

My name is Miss Lauren and I am so thrilled to continue teaching at SMPS in 2026! I will be teaching Year 3 and this will be my fourth year of teaching. I can’t wait to get started and I am looking forward to getting to know all of the wonderful students and families.

I have come all the way from London where I was born and raised, so I know a thing or two about growing up in a big city! I enjoy spending time exploring new places, such as visiting museums and local landmarks. I also love cooking and trying out new recipes, but I never say no to a trip to a new restaurant! I have lived in Melbourne for a little over a year now and I absolutely love it here. 

Although I love teaching all subjects, my favourite is Geography. I enjoy learning about the world and landscapes around us and thinking about how we can make our planet happier.

I’m looking forward to a fabulous second year at SMPS - I hope you all have an amazing break!

3D: Angela Murphy

Hello SMPS Community,

My name is Miss Angela, and I’m excited to be joining South Melbourne Primary School as a graduate teacher in 2026. I’ve recently completed my studies at Monash University, and I’m looking forward to teaching Year 3 and getting to know all the wonderful students and families.

I grew up in South Africa, where I was a Girl Guide, spending lots of time outdoors camping, hiking, and exploring nature, which I still love today. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, sewing, embroidery, and crochet - creative hobbies that help me relax and recharge!

Before moving to Melbourne, I spent two years teaching English in South Korea. That experience sparked my passion for education and inspired me to pursue teaching as a career.

I’m truly looking forward to becoming part of the SMPS community and beginning this exciting journey with you all in the new year.

Warm regards,

Miss Angela