OUR STAFF

Bernadette McKenna

I have been principal at Chewton since April 2020. I love the school's emphasis on Indigenous perspectives, community and sustainability. I love the way all staff know every child and work together to nurture them, supporting them academically, socially and emotionally. I love the way the whole community is so heavily involved in the life of the school and the stunning bush setting makes it a joy to come to every day. Chewton Primary really is "the best little school in Victoria."

Class TeacherGrade 2-3-4

Renee Maddams

I feel truly blessed to have the privilege of working in a small school and one that has such a diverse and active community. My colleagues and I are all passionate about education and student wellbeing and strive to nurture each and every child in our care as a team. Chewton Primary School is a unique and wonderful school and I love being a part of such a special place that is constantly growing to provide for the children in our community.

Class TeacherGrade 5-6

Catherine Barry

Chewton Primary values a curious mind, the pursuit of excellence in learning engagements whilst building self-efficacy through a broad range of skills and experiences. Formerly working across many primary, secondary and tertiary settings both here and overseas, I feel very lucky to contribute to this unique place. I will endeavour to enrich every learning experience with an awareness of the complexity of nature, a respect for our collective participation whilst preparing students to navigate an exciting digital future.

Class TeacherGrade 2-3-4

Meg Shaw

I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the Chewton Primary School community. Over the years, I’ve worked across a range of educational settings in regional Victoria and Melbourne, in both mainstream and alternative settings. Each experience has shaped my approach to teaching and deepened my commitment to inclusive, student-centred learning. What makes Chewton so special is its strong sense of connection — to each other, to the environment, country, and to learning itself. Here, curiosity is nurtured and every child is seen and supported. I’m passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that foster confidence, creativity, and a genuine love of learning.

First Nations Ways:Country and Place

Kath Coff

Kath Coff is a proud Yorta Yorta woman who is also the CEO of Nalderun Aboriginal Education Corporation. Kath has worked closely with staff and students at Chewton Primary over a number of years. We are very privileged to have Kath teaching First Nations Ways: country and place this year.

Sue Pearson

My name is Sue Pearson and I have been a teacher here at Chewton Primary for 3 years now. I have taught in many schools over the years and I can say without hesitation, that Chewton is the most caring and compassionate school of all. I feel at home here where likeminded staff are truly dedicated to the wellbeing and education of all students. I strive to embed a love of learning in all my students, so that everyone feels part of our wonderful school community. The bush environment that surrounds us is truly unique making learning opportunities here remarkable.

Wellbeing and Mental Health Leader and Hands-on Learning Artisan Teacher

Margot Feast

As a local, I feel privileged to walk the track to school and to a workplace that encapsulates so much beauty. Being able to breathe in and gain strength from nature is something I take into both my roles as Hands-on Learning Artisan/Teacher and the Wellbeing and Mental Health Leader. In both roles, my focus is on developing students social and emotional skills. I support students to recognise and express their feelings, build healthy friendships and treat everyone, including themselves, with respect. Through my extensive background in visual arts education, I also use creativity to build a sense of pride, purpose and belonging at Chewton Primary School.

Art SpecialistGrades P-6

Kate Meade

As the Art teacher at Chewton Primary School, I love exploring the world of creativity and art making with students. I have a focus on nurturing the individual creativity of each child as well as teaching artistic behaviours. In the art room we are inspired by the beautiful bush that surrounds the school and often make art outside or bring these natural elements into the art room. We are also lucky to live in a vibrant arts community where we source many ideas and opportunities for arts participation.

Education SupportYears 2-3-4

Eloise Pengelly

I love coming to school every day to be embraced by the wonderful students, staff and families I work with at Chewton Primary School. I'm entrusted with the care of the Prep/One students and thrive on nurturing their specific learning, social and emotional needs. I get such a thrill from watching students adopt an "I can" attitude in the classroom. I enjoy shooting hoops and kicking the footy with students at break times.

Business ManagerAdministation

Kitty Ward

I am lucky to be the Business Manager at Chewton Primary. I love coming to work in the beautiful building and grounds and I’m proud to work at a school with a strong focus on sustainability and wellbeing. The staff, students and families are welcoming and supportive, giving Chewton Primary School a lot of heart.

Education SupportYears 5-6

Patsy Braybrook

My name is Patsy and I've been helping students at Chewton Primary School for longer than any other member of the team! It's a great place for children to come to school.
Patsy is running Family Day Care after school on Tuesday and Thursday.

Tutor, SPAIDES (speech) support

Kahu Patira

I am so lucky to be a part of Chewton Primary. I am fortunate to come to school every day and and enjoy the friendly people, both staff and students, and natural environment upon which the school is situated. I love the team spirit of the school and the community atmosphere which is a pleasure to be part of.

Class Teacher Prep/1

Erin Cook

I am excited to join the Chewton Primary School community as one of the Prep/1 teachers. I believe that learning should be both fun and meaningful and I strive to make every lesson an enjoyable and rewarding experience for students of all abilities. Whether it's through creative activities, hands-on experiences, or tailored support, I want to ensure that each student feels supported, safe, valued, and inspired to learn. I look forward to working with the students, families, and staff at Chewton Primary School to create an inclusive, supportive, and fun learning space for all.

Education Support

2-3-4

Al Coff

Sustainability Teacher

P-6

Serena Everill

Music Tutor

Years P-6

Scott Sanders

I've been fortunate enough to have been a member of the Chewton PS community for over ten years now, firstly as a parent of a student from grade prep to six - then as a volunteer helping out with various music and performing arts duties, and the last four years as music teacher and instrumental tutor. I've seen kids grow, develop and flourish with the strong values of effort, sharing and support that make being part of Chewton PS more like being part of an extended family. It feels great to be a Chewtonian :)

Education Support

P-1

Luke Anderson

Page updated

Report abuse