Our principal and staff
Our school team is committed to every student’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging. We work together to create a supportive and inclusive school where every child is set up for success.
A message from our principal
Welcome to Willoughby Girls High School.
Founded in 1934, Willoughby Girls High School is recognised as a leader in girls’ education in one of the most competitive schooling areas in Australia.
The school enjoys a strong reputation for high academic standards, evident in the consistently outstanding HSC (Higher School Certificate) achievements and the vast majority of HSC (Higher School Certificate) graduates who progress to university studies. Students are focused on their learning in an environment of high expectations. The school’s excellent teachers are committed to the academic, social and emotional development of our students in order to prepare them for the future.
The school’s focus is on:
- supporting students to achieve individual excellence while developing and valuing collaborative practice
- enhancing an established culture of learning across the school
- encouraging independent, life long learners
- empowering young women to pursue their goals with confidence and skill
- celebrating the rich diversity of our school community
- developing capable, contributing citizens and leaders.
Strong values and an effective wellbeing system, responsive to student and parent needs, along with clear discipline policies and a defined uniform code, create a safe, caring and fair school environment. These systems and expectations are integral to the school’s standards and excellent reputation in the wider community.
The school provides a broad academic curriculum and many co-curricular opportunities including an extensive sporting program and music ensembles managed by the school's parents and citizens' association (P&C), dance, drama, the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, vocal ensembles, as well as debating and public speaking programs, and a range of student leadership programs.
Willoughby Girls High School is an integral part of the local landscape and enjoys outstanding support from parents and the broader local community. As a local high school, the majority of students live within a short distance from the school and are well placed to benefit from, and contribute to, the diverse social and cultural life of the community.
Mrs Adrienne Scalese
Principal
Our school leaders
Our school leaders, including our principal, deputy principals, teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.
- Mrs Adrienne Scalese - Principal
- Ms Janet Atchison - Deputy Principal
- Ms Emma Payne - Deputy Principal Years 7, 9 & 11
- Ms Kate Richards - Deputy Principal (rel.) years 8, 10 & 12
Our teaching staff
Your child’s school experience is shaped by the people around them. Our teachers bring experience, care and a passion for learning to every lesson. With a focus on success, they help every child reach their full potential.
- Ms Carren Allen - History
- Ms Suzanne Brown - English
- Mrs Cheryl Blomfield - Technology & Applied Studies
- Mrs Sandi Coffey - Mathematics
- Mr Elias Arsalah - Wellbeing (rel.)
- Ms Marina Guilline - Science
- Ms Ashleigh Hardes - Support
- Mr Franc Maltese - Languages, Music & Visual Arts
- Ms Emily McNamara - Teaching & Learning
- Mr Matthew Palmer - Social Science
- Ms Naomi Roberts - PDHPE (rel.)
- Ms Melanie Tutty - Admin
Wellbeing and support staff
Our wellbeing and support staff guide student wellbeing, learning needs and inclusion. They work with teachers to make personalised adjustments. This means each child can take part fully in school life. We make our school welcoming and accessible to every child.
- Mrs Caroline Jarvis - Year 7 Advisor
- Ms Anastasia Velevski - Year 8 Advisor
- Ms Adel Frames - Year 9 Advisor
- Ms Elizabeth Gilbane - Year 10 Advisor
- Ms Lucy Watson - Year 11 Advisor
- Mrs Karen Tilson - Year 12 Advisor
- Mr Elias Arsalah - HT Wellbeing (rel.)
- Ms Natasha Sekelja - Student Support Officer
- Ms Naomi Wells - School Psychologist
- Ms Elayne McGuffog - Senior Psychologist
- Ms Katie Strouthos - Wellbeing Nurse / Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Ms Fiona Mahl - Learning and Support Teacher (rel.)
Our teachers make the difference
Committed to your child’s success
Our teachers ensure every student can thrive. They use proven ways to teach and tailor learning support for their students
Expert, connected and accredited
Our teachers are part of a strong education network. They may hold advanced accreditation. This ensuring high-quality teaching for your child.
Teachers who never stop learning
Our teachers are lifelong learners. They stay current through regular training and keep improving how they teach students.
Teacher–family partnerships
Our teachers build trust through clear communication. Our families know that their child has support and is ready to learn.
Have a question for our principal or teachers?
Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.
Additional learning support
Find out how we support students with disability or additional learning needs.
Stories and highlights
Hear about stories, wins and proud moments from our staff and students.