NMPS New and Returning Staff

Welcome New Staff

Lina McAlinden, 4C

Hi, my name is Lina, and this year I have the pleasure of teaching 4C! I’m beyond excited as this is my first year as a teacher, yet I have worked closely in education through Learning and Disability support. Outside of school, I love attending musicals, traveling, spending time with friends, and playing with my dogs. I’m looking forward to all that this year has to offer! 

Lilly Stevens, Prep B

Hello! My name is Lilly and I am a new Prep teacher at NMPS. I am very excited to be teaching Prep B and working with their families this year. I am originally from the Sunshine Coast in Queensland and following my undergraduate studies, relocated to Melbourne 3 years ago to begin my Master of Teaching (Primary). I love going to the beach, being outside, crafting and spending time with friends and family. This is my first year of teaching and I am already feeling so welcome and supported here at NMPS. I can’t wait for the year ahead and am looking forward to being a part of the NMPS community. 

Ferhan Dogan, 1D

Hello everyone! I am excited to join NMPS this year with 1D! I have previously worked as a classroom teacher and leading teacher in Maths. I am currently working to complete a PhD in Education. When I am not working, I love to spend time with my loved ones, spending time in nature, listening to music, watching movies, walking and doing Pilates. I hope to meet some of you throughout the year!

Jack Yorke, 2E

Hello! My name is Jack and I'm excited to be teaching in 2E this year. I’m a new arrival to Melbourne, having moved over from New Zealand at the beginning of the year, where I’ve been teaching for the past 4 years. In my spare time you can find me reading, watching a good movie, out on a walk in nature, or exploring the city. I’m looking forward to getting to know the NMPS community over the coming year. 

Returning Staff

Lizzie Wright, 3C

Hi, I'm Lizzie and I am so excited to be back at NMPS and teaching Year 3. Last year I had the amazing opportunity to travel to South America and teach English in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. I learnt so much about the various Latin American cultures, music, language and history while I was away. I did some amazing hiking (including on a live volcano), spent time swimming with sea turtles, visited Machu Picchu and explored the Amazon Rainforest. I can't wait to bring this incredible experience into the classroom and share some of the things I learnt. 

Rachel Dowe, Prep A

Hello there wonderful NMPS community! My name is Rachel and this year I have the pleasure of teaching Prep A. I have been teaching at NMPS for 3 years and absolutely love the school community and learning culture. I spent last year backpacking the world with my husband. We visited over 25 incredible countries! Hard to say which was the favourite but Nepal was an absolute gem - those mountains... I am very excited to be back in the classroom and can't wait for a fun-filled year ahead. 

Sarah Connors, Prep E

I'm originally from Sydney, and I've been teaching for 12 years, with a passion for both Maths and Art. I find joy in helping students discover the beauty of these subjects and guiding them through creative processes. Outside the classroom, I enjoy playing soccer, exploring Melbourne with my family, and tending to my garden. Listening to and watching live music also holds a special place in my life. I have a soft spot for Basque cheesecakes and can never resist a slice whenever I get the chance! I'm looking forward to being back at NMPS this year and teaching Prep! 

Risa Hammel, 2B

Hi NMPS Community! I am so excited to be back teaching Year 2 this year, after taking a break last year to have my son, Atlas. I have taught Year 6 and Year 3 at NMPS previously, and am looking forward to being on Molesworth Campus this year. I am originally from California in the USA, but I have lived in Melbourne for nearly eight years now. I cannot wait to reconnect and have a great year!