Principals' Page
Congratulations
We are excited to announce that Jean Maxwell will be stepping into the role of Assistant Principal alongside Melissa Roberts in 2026.
Jean has done amazing work supporting families, particularly in wellbeing and the disability space, and she will continue this important work while also helping in leading curriculum.
With her experience as a previous Assistant Principal, Jean brings expertise, dedication, and a strong sense of family to our school community.
We are so lucky to have her on our leadership team. Congratulations Jean.
Farewell Richard Bailey School Council President
It has been a privilege to work with Richard during my time at Great Ryrie Primary School.
Richard’s commitment to School Council over many years, including eight years as President, has been exceptional. He has led with care, integrity and a genuine focus on what is best for our students and our school community.
I am personally grateful to Richard for the trust and support he showed during the principal appointment process. His professionalism and belief in the future of the school meant a great deal to me.
As both a leader and a parent, Richard’s connection to the school has always been clear. He leaves the school in a strong place, and his contribution will be felt for many years to come.
On behalf of our students, staff and families, thank you Richard and we wish you and your family all the very best.
Richard Bailey
I joined School Council in 2016, taking on the role of Vice President under Terry Jenvey. With Terry’s departure in 2018, I was nominated for and accepted the role of President of School Council, a position I have held for 8 years.
During my time on School Council, I have seen the role of School Council evolve over time. It has been a privilege to have had a role in many changes that the school has seen -
• the demolition of the original annex through the planning and building of the new annex,
• the development of the school master plan,
• various building, development and improvement works,
• the school’s 20-year celebration,
• the retirement of former Principal Doug Elliott,
• the recruitment and hiring of the new school Principal, Karen Rouda,
• two school reviews,
• and various school reports, AIPs, and policy updates
I have learned a lot during my time on School Council, seeing behind the scenes into the running of the school and the multitude of decisions that need to be made.
I have also had the pleasure of seeing my three children pass through the school over the course of 14 years.
I leave the School and School Council in a great place. The school grounds look amazing, enrolments are up, as is the school's reputation, with the school performing well, as our most recent review will attest.
Again, I thank you for the opportunity to have had an impact on the school and wish the school all the very best for the future.
Farewell Elaine Burton
Elaine, thank you for your incredible 25 years at Great Ryrie Primary School.
You have been such an important part of our school, supporting students and helping them grow in confidence and love of learning.
From your early days working across all year levels, to your work in classrooms, EAL and intervention, and your support of literacy and spelling programs, you have always been there quietly making a difference.
Your kindness, patience and care have touched so many children and colleagues over the years. You have helped students feel safe, supported and encouraged, and your steady presence has meant a great deal to everyone at GRPS.
As you move into retirement, we want to say thank you. You will be greatly missed, and we wish you all the very best as you enjoy this next chapter of your life.
Elaine Burton
This year marks 25 years since I began working at GRPS, a milestone that has given me the privilege of seeing many changes and supporting generations of students.
When I first started here there were just four support personnel and together, we worked across all year levels providing assistance wherever it was needed. Over the years, my role has evolved alongside the school, allowing me to contribute in a variety of meaningful ways.
I have worked extensively in classroom support, EAL and intervention programs, helping children build confidence and skills in their learning. I have also been involved in supplying literacy resources particularly to support the school’s spelling program for both teachers and students.
What has remained consistent throughout these 25 years is the school’s commitment to student wellbeing and learning. It has been a privilege to be part of that journey and to support students as they grow, learn and succeed.
Babies Galore
Hold onto your hats, there must be something in the water at Great Ryrie,
maybe it is the Sensory Garden creek!
Five of our amazing staff members are expecting babies, and we couldn’t be more excited. Our school family is about to get a whole lot bubblier, fun and more chaotic in the best possible way. Baby bumps, teeny toes, and endless cuteness are on the way, and we can already imagine the coos, cuddles, and chaos taking over. The last count was three girls, one boy and one surprise.
Congratulations to our parents to be Melissa, Carly, Ash, Maddy and Meaghan xx
On behalf of Melissa and myself, I would like to thank you for your continued support throughout the year. We wish you all a lovely Christmas and a restful break. I am looking forward to some time away in Queensland with my family and daughters, and Melissa is happily watching her baby bump continue to grow.
As the year comes to a close, we encourage you to take care and enjoy the break.
Once again, to the families who are leaving us, thank you for entrusting us with the privilege and responsibility of educating and helping to raise your child.
Karen Rouda Principal & Melissa Roberts Assistant Principal