Principal's

Message

What a wonderful 2024 it's been, filled with countless memorable moments! I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to my amazing staff for their unwavering professionalism. They are truly a unique group of educators, and I am incredibly fortunate to work alongside them. To our families, thank you for your continued support throughout the year. I know we've experienced some changes, and I deeply appreciate your encouragement as we continue to shape the learning, wellbeing, and environment of this wonderful school. A special thank you to those exceptional humans who have gone above and beyond to ensure our community thrives. I am truly grateful for your selfless contributions.

I am thrilled with all that we’ve accomplished at SMPPS thus far and am so excited for what’s next! 

Wishing you all a joyful festive season filled with love, family, and friends, and a safe and restful break.

FAREWELL TO TRISH WAN

As we say farewell to Assistant Principal, Trish Wan, I would like to acknowledge the incredible work she has done over the last 2 and a bit years. Trish absolutely has ‘kids at the heart’. She has been a staunch supporter of students and families who may need some extra support or care and has changed the lives of many. We wish Trish all the best as she commences a new role at Avenues Education, supporting vulnerable children and their families. Thank you, Trish, for your dedication and care, from all at South Melbourne Park Primary School. 

NEW STAFF

EMMA WHITBY 2C

My name is Emma Whitby and I will be teaching 2C next year. I am from Nottingham, England but have been living in Melbourne for the last 12 years with my partner. I have been teaching at Carnegie Primary where I taught in Grade 2. I have a love of all things performing arts and love to read. I am looking forward to getting to know the whole South Melbourne Park community. 

VICTORIA FEAR 5C

I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the new 5C teacher for 2025. This is my first year at

 South Melbourne Park Primary School and I’m looking forward to getting to know both the students and the families as we embark on this exciting year together.

I’m originally from England where I taught for two years, and I have been living and teaching in Australia for the past five years. Outside of school I enjoy reading, going on hikes and camping and soaking up the sunshine with my friends. 

I’m excited to be part of the South Melbourne Park Primary School community and can’t wait to get to know everyone!

CLARE FENSLING 6C

Hello South Melbourne Park Primary School community,

My name is Clare Fensling and I’m excited to be 6C’s teacher in 2025. I look forward to getting to know everyone and a great year of learning.

I have been teaching for over 20 years and have a passion for learning. Melbourne is my favourite city in the world, and I’ve lived here my whole life. I love living close to the city so I can go for interesting walks, watch my beloved Bombers play and spend time with friends and family. I also love to travel, with my most recent highlight visiting the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt last year. My two tuxedo cats Coco and Lexi keep me entertained and on my toes at home! Have a wonderful holiday and see you in 2025!

SIAN BAYARD

My name is Sian Bayard, and I am so excited to be joining the teaching team at SMPPS next year in Year 5. I have previously worked at Caulfield Grammar and Wesley College where I have worked across all year levels as well as in learning support. I have a master’s degree in teaching from The University of Melbourne and I am so passionate about sharing my love of learning with my students. I’m really looking forward to getting to know the wonderful community at South Melbourne Park, I already feel so welcomed by the incredible staff. Bring on 2025!

CONSTANCE XANTHOS

My name is Constance Xanthos and I am super excited to be teaching 4C next year! I have been casual relief teaching at SMPPS for the past two years and have had the pleasure of working across all year levels. This year I finally achieved my lifelong dream to travel overseas where I experienced amazing adventures and created unforgettable memories. I now look forward to forming new memories with my students and incorporating all the skills I have learnt throughout my teaching experience into my own classroom. I must admit, some of my greatest learnings have come from the students themselves who have shared their creative ideas with me or shown me fantastic leadership skills as the “teacher’s helper.” I look forward to further collaborating with my students and taking on their inspiring ideas to create the best learning experience for them. 

SARAH HOBSON

I am excited to begin my teaching journey at SMPPS, where I’ll be working part-time with Ms Davis teaching Grade 2. After an eight-year break from teaching, during which I worked in the corporate world and gained valuable skills, I returned to the classroom in 2024 with a fresh perspective and I am absolutely loving it. Before my break, I spent six years as a teacher, and I’m now enjoying the balance of teaching and raising my young family. Outside of work, we love exploring the local community, going on road trips, and visiting family. I’m looking forward to becoming a part of the vibrant South Melbourne community and starting this new chapter at SMPPS.

SEAN BLYTHE

My name is Sean Blythe and I am excited to be joining the Education Support team at SMPPS. I’ve worked at Yarra Primary School for three years as an ES and look forward to getting to know and support the students at SMPPS. I recently moved and am eager to work closer to home in such a wonderful school so close to the beautiful Albert Park Lake. I’m confident that my calm, understanding nature will be well at home at South Melbourne Park Primary School. 

Regards,

Nicole Arnold

Principal