Inclusion News

Role/Title: Karen Halket - Assistant Principal - Wellbeing

What I do at Cranbourne South Primary:

My job at Cranbourne South PS involves making sure everyone is safe and happy whilst at school. This includes being part of the Wellbeing, Inclusion and OHS teams and overseeing various wellbeing programs.  I work with students, staff and families to ensure that everyone is able to work and learn to the best of their ability in a safe and inclusive environment.

What I enjoy most about working in the Inclusion Team:

I enjoy working with a team of people who are as passionate as I am about providing an inclusive environment where everyone can work and thrive. 

Families might contact me if:

Families might contact me with queries about wellbeing issues, both at home and at school.  Some examples could include - anxiety, school refusal, behaviour issues, questions about outside school supports available and to organise meetings to discuss behaviour plans for yard and classroom. I am available to meet with families throughout the week.

How families can contact me:

Families can contact me via email, karen.halket@education.vic.gov.au or via phone through the office.

Something students might not know about me:

I have worked at Cranbourne South PS for a VERY long time. I started here in 1999 and taught some students' parents!  I love working here and enjoy my job very much.

Favourite thing to do outside of school:

My favorite thing to do outside of school will not be a surprise to anyone - go to the footy!  Whether it is supporting the greatest team out there - Collingwood or Pearcedale Football Netball Club, I am all about AFL. Go Pies! #UptheDales!

Name: Joe Meade

Role: Disability Inclusion Learning Specialist

What I do at Cranbourne South Primary: 

I work with teachers, students, and families to support inclusive learning across the school. My role focuses on helping students with additional learning needs access the curriculum through appropriate adjustments and support. I also collaborate with Allied Health teams to develop plans and support Disability Inclusion Profiles, ensuring our school receives the appropriate levels of support.

What I enjoy most about working in the Inclusion Team: 

I enjoy working alongside teachers and families to help students build confidence, develop their skills, and experience success in their learning.

Families might contact me if… 

They have questions about learning support, classroom adjustments, Individual Education Plans (IEPs), or the Disability Inclusion Profile process.

How families can contact me: 

Families can reach me through Compass, by calling the school office to arrange a time, or by emailing me at joseph.meade@education.vic.gov.au.

Something students might not know about me: 

I enjoy working on cars and motorcycles and fixing mechanical things in my spare time. I have a few old motorcycles and an old Commodore that keep me busy!

Favourite thing to do outside of school: 

Spending time with my family and playing golf.

Name:  Hayley van Roest   (Mrs V)

Role:  Education Support Leader. 

What I do at Cranbourne South Primary: 

As an Education Support Leader  I play a key role in helping all students access learning and feel included, supported, and successful at school. My role usually combines leadership, collaboration, and direct support for both students and staff.  

What I enjoy most about working in the Inclusion Team: 

I find it especially rewarding to collaborate with others who are passionate about creating positive change, whether through initiatives, conversations, or small actions that add up over time. The work challenges me to keep learning, stay empathetic, and think critically about how we can continuously improve inclusion for everyone.

Something students might not know about me... 

Is that I love ballroom dancing, and I also play both the piano and the flute. Music and dance are a big part of my life, and I really enjoy the creativity and expression they bring. I also have a Siberian Husky and two Ragdoll cats, who definitely keep me busy and entertained!

Favourite thing to do outside of school: 

I like to spend time with my family and go for walks. I also have a passion for gardening, so I love to spend time in my garden. I enjoy playing the piano and flute, and I also love cooking.

Name: Nichola Allen

Role: Inclusion Leader

What I do at Cranbourne South Primary:

I have been employed at CSPS for nearly 16 years in Education Support. During this time, I have provided direct classroom support to students, assisted families in SSG meetings, coordinated PSD funding, and led the implementation of the new Disability Inclusion model. I work hard to be a strong advocate for these students, ensuring their needs are understood and supported in every aspect of their learning journey.

What I enjoy most about working in the Inclusion Team:

I enjoy supporting students to reach their full potential, collaborating with families and staff to create meaningful learning experiences, and advocating for the individual needs of each student. Being part of a team that values inclusion, equity, and positive outcomes for all learners is deeply rewarding.

Families might contact me if:

They have enquiries regarding their SSG meetings, or assessments with our departmental professionals, or any documentation regarding their child.

How families can contact me:

Via email or phone through the school office.

Something students might not know about me:

I love going to concerts and the footy (Go Pies!).

Favourite things to do outside of school:

I enjoy making art, spending time with my family and friends, cooking, and watching the kangaroos that visit my backyard—especially the joeys, who are so cute!

Name: Sharon Cattanach

Role/Title:Inclusion Coach

What I do at Cranbourne South Primary: 

As part of the Inclusion Team, I support both students and staff to help create inclusive learning environments where all students can feel safe, supported, and able to thrive. I’m involved in the Student Wellbeing Lounge, Lego Therapy Club, and Outdoor Oasis Club, and I also work alongside our ES staff, coaching and sharing strategies to support them in working with students.

What I enjoy most about working in the Inclusion Team: 

I love building positive relationships with students and helping them feel confident and supported at school. Having fun with the kids while supporting their growth is the best part of my job, and I’m very lucky to be part of such an amazing Inclusion Team.

Something students might not know about me: 

When I went to primary school in the country, there were only 12 students in the whole school!

Favourite thing to do outside of school: 

Spending time with my family and enjoying the outdoors.