New Staff 2023

I am looking forward to joining and working in such a fantastic school environment. I have been working in London for the last few years and can't wait to be back in Australia.

I believe that as an educator it is my role to create an environment where the children feel comfortable learning.

I will always support and create a safe place for students to share, learn, and grow as individuals.

I enjoy all sports and music, and I am always on the lookout for an excellent new book.

I look forward to meeting everyone in 2023.

Jordan Paul

I am a passionate teacher who loves working with children. I am so eager to start at St Columba’s in 2023 and get to know the school community.

I have been teaching for some time now and am excited for this coming school year to begin. I have taught in both private and government schools and have loved getting to know each of the children in each of the classes.

I studied at Deakin University and then went on to do some professional development at Monash University. I have certificates in the Extending Mathematical Understanding courses and in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

I have a passion for numeracy and STEM education and am a believer of authentic teaching and learning experiences.

I can’t wait to get started!

Ashleigh Klooger

Hello, I’m Colin McDonnell and I am extremely proud to be joining St Columba’s school community, Elwood.

I look forward to the opportunity of working with you and getting to know you over the course of the year. I strongly believe that together as a whole, we will make a positive difference.

Twenty something years’ experience in education both abroad and in Australia, together with open communication and creating both a passion and love for learning, academically and socially, is our ultimate gift we can facilitate in our children in an everchanging environment that is conducive to each child’s individual learning needs.

Family, a strong love of travel, interest in various sports and just commencing a new hobby of rowing keeps me busy!

Colin McDonnell

Hello! My name is Amanda and I’m really excited to be starting at St Columba’s in 2023.

I am currently in my second year and am teaching year 5 at Galilee Regional Catholic Primary School in South Melbourne.

I have a passion for student wellbeing and making learning meaningful and enjoyable!

Prior to teaching, I worked in the aviation industry for 8 years. Whilst flying was lots of fun, I have absolutely loved the change and challenge of primary teaching!

I have a love of travel, going for long walks, and enjoying the Melbourne food scene.

Amanda Reardon

Hi everyone! My name is Angela and I am so excited to be one of the Prep teachers at St Columba's next year.

This is my 2nd year teaching and prior to joining the team here, I have been teaching at St Anthony’s in Glen Huntly.

I was lucky enough to attend St Columbas myself and work as a member of Andy’s before and after school care through High School and University.

I’m so excited to be back as part of this wonderful school community!

I love going for walks on the beach with my dog Patchy, creating fun crafts, and spending time with my friends and family.

I am looking forward to meeting you all for what I’m sure will be a fun and exciting year of learning!

Angela Rush

I am excited to begin at St Columba's Primary School in 2023.

The school's culture, beliefs and values align with my approach to learning and teaching.

I have worked in IB schools for the past 14 years and am passionate and dedicated to the PYP philosophy.

I am originally from a small town in Michigan, USA. For the past 15 years, I have been living in Bayside with my Australian-born husband, our two children, Zoe and Oscar and our bulldog Buddy.

I currently coach Oscar's U16 basketball team. I recently began two new hobbies, golf and surfing, reminding me of what it is like to be a learner.

I look forward to meeting you all and becoming a member of the St Columba's community.

Nicole Spence

In the blink of an eye, 16 years have passed since my first day in education.

I can still remember the 25 little sets of eyes looking up at me that morning. My career has been filled with rich and profound teaching experiences. I have worked in a range of educational settings, public and private, single-sex and coeducational.

I have had the privilege of working here at home, and abroad in New York and London. This diversity of contexts has allowed me to stretch and grow as an educator, and as a person. I have developed a passion for inquiry-based learning that develops student agency, action and a call to service.

On a personal level, I love being around other people. I enjoy art, reading, listening to live music, eating out, thrift shopping, being active and getting to the beach. I have a goal to learn to surf this summer!

I am feeling inspired by all I have heard about ‘the little school with a big heart’ and am incredibly excited to be joining the St Columba’s team in 2023.

Meaghan Payne