Introducing our New Staff
Sarah Doyle
My name is Sarah Doyle and I have gained a position as an additional Learning Support Teacher at St Joseph’s, Catholic College, Aberdeen. This is my first appointment in the Diocese, however, I am bringing eleven years experience across both PDHPE and in an Inclusive Education setting. I completed a Bachelor of Education (Secondary)/Bachelor of Health and Physical Education, specialising in Special Education at the University of Newcastle. I am a local person who grew up in Muswellbrook and have always had a strong connection to my community. In my spare time, my three children keep me busy with their afternoon sports and activities. I have already been made to feel so welcome by the staff at St Joseph’s Catholic College, Aberdeen and I am beginning to meet the incredible students. I am looking forward to supporting the students in 2025 to achieve their goals and aspirations.
Robert Matulewicz
Hello, St Joseph’s Aberdeen!
I’m Robert Matulewicz, your new on-site casual teacher—and after 24 years in the classroom, I still can’t get enough of it! I’ve had the privilege of teaching students from Kindergarten to Year 12 (and beyond) across Australia and overseas. Since moving from Sydney to The Hunter in 2022, I’ve been part of the diocese initially as in Gifted Education as a Virtual Academy teacher, however, most recently I’ve been teaching English at St Joseph’s Lochinvar.
Words are my thing—I love the quirks, history, and power of language. Stories shape how we see the world, and that’s why you’ll often find me buried in a book or watching a great film.
The Aberdeen community has already been incredibly welcoming, and I can’t wait to get to know you all. I look forward to hearing your stories, inside and outside the classroom and the journey we will be on together.
Tim Burgess
Hi! My name is Tim Burgess and this is my first teaching job in the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese. As someone who has two parents as teachers in the diocese, I have found a lot of comfort in my new home here at St. Joseph’s Catholic College. I attended St Pius X Adamstown and St Francis Xavier’s Hamilton, so I am very familiar with and passionate about being a teacher in the CSO. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Education in Mathematics at the University of Newcastle and teaching Years 7-10 Mathematics. I look forward to developing positive relationships with my classes and helping each student achieve to the highest of their abilities.
Olivia Knight
My name is Olivia Knight, and I am honoured to join the St. Joseph’s Catholic College community as a new member of staff. I teach Computing Science and have already been warmly welcomed by both students and colleagues. I completed my Bachelor of Secondary Education at the University of Newcastle, where I developed a strong passion forteaching through my selected courses and working in the Architecture and Built Environment Workshop as a workshop supervisor. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working as a coding instructor for Engineers Australia and working in industry specific roles for computing technology which have shaped my approach to education. I have always been committed to fostering student success and personal growth, and I take great pride in extracurricular involvement and fostering students’ interests. Beyond the classroom, I have been actively involved in the community through my role as a representative netball coach. Coaching at this level has allowed me to mentor young athletes, instil teamwork and discipline, and foster personal growth — values I also bring into my teaching. I believe in the importance of developing well-rounded individuals, both academically and personally, and I strive to create an engaging and supportive learning environment.
Nigel Richardson
Hello, St Joseph’s Community. I am Nigel Richardson, the newly appointed Gifted Education Mentor Project Officer (Upper Hunter K-12). I love the bush and the beach, I spend my time outdoors as much as possible. I love dogs, I’ve got two Golden Retrievers that also love the beach. I’m a qualified K-12 teacher, I have taught K-12 Music, HSC 1,2 and Extension Music for many years and also Primary for the past ten + years. I love to learn, I have a Post Graduate qualifications in: Master of Teaching (Primary), Master of Educational Studies (Leadership and Management), Bachelor of Music, and Post Graduate qualifications in Gifted Education and Religion. Thank you for the warm welcome to St Joseph’s. I look forward to working with the High Performance and Gifted Education students at our college this year.
Shaun Monro
My name is Shaun Monro and I am excited to be teaching woodwork and VET Construction at St Joseph’s. Being an ex-student, it has very much felt like coming home. I have come to teaching later in life after completing my trade and then a career in the military. I bring this range of experience to the classroom and look forward to working with the community in continuing to produce independent, resilient and well-rounded students.
Julie Edwards
Hi my name is Julie Edwards and I have taken up the position of Visual Arts Teacher. I am very excited to be back teaching the subject I love. I have studied a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours and spent a number of years teaching this subject while living overseas. The best part of living overseas was the opportunity to visit a selection of famous Art galleries and view in person my favourite artworks.
I live in the Upper Hunter and have called this area home for the last 20 years. I have a close association with St Joseph's Aberdeen, as my children have all been students at the school. I value the community spirit and high standards the school holds for staff and students. I look forward to the creative learning journey ahead.
Sharney Gilchrist
I am a mother of 2, Madison (9) and Cashden (7) who keep me on my toes outside of work. I’m a school Learning Support Assistant and I am extremely proud to work with an amazing team here at SJCC. I truly believe every student deserves a quality education, and I’m dedicated to helping make that happen. Whether it’s supporting their learning needs or guiding them through their educational journey, I’m here to ensure they thrive.
Outside of work, I’m passionate about triathlons and all things sport! Physical activity is such an important part of life, and I love helping kids enjoy it as much as I do. Whether it’s a race, a game, or just staying active, I’m all about getting kids involved, motivated, and excited to move.
Leah Ollerton
Hi, my name is Leah Ollerton and I have recently joined the Learning Support team as an LSA at St Joseph’s Catholic College. I have worked over the past 2 years casually as an LSA at St Joseph's and look forward to continuing to work with the students and supporting their learning. Outside of my work I enjoy being involved in sports, coaching junior teams, and giving back to my community. I am super excited to work with the new students and staff in creating a positive learning environment in 2025!