Our principal and staff
Welcome from our Principal
Mrs Voula Pounendis, School Principal
Welcome to Virginia Primary School, our vibrant and inclusive learning community, where values of Respect, Caring, Fairness, Diversity, and Achievement are not just words but the foundation of our school culture. As the proud Principal of VPS, it is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all students, families, and staff. I feel privileged to be in a role whereby I can make a difference in the lives of our students, staff and families.
At Virginia Primary School, our mission is to inspire a love for learning, empower students to reach their full potential, and cultivate a strong sense of community. We strive to create an inclusive and supportive educational environment that values all student’s unique strengths and abilities, and that fosters personal growth and development.
At the heart of our mission are the values of wellbeing and high-quality education. We understand the importance of creating a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes not only academic excellence but also the holistic development of each student. Our committed and dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
We celebrate our rich tapestry of cultures, making our school a true melting pot of diversity. We firmly believe that embracing our differences and similarities, enhance the learning experience for everyone. Our commitment to being an inclusive and multicultural organisation is unwavering, creating an environment where every individual feels valued and respected.
As part of our commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students, we offer a range of support services to cater to the diverse needs of our students, including special education programs, counselling services, and English language support. Our team of caring professionals work collaboratively to ensure that every student receives the necessary support to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
We are dedicated to providing opportunities that extend beyond the classroom, encouraging our students to become lifelong learners. By nurturing a love for knowledge and curiosity, we aim to equip them with the skills and mindset necessary for success in an ever-changing world.
Virginia Primary School recognises that the partnership between families and the school community is crucial in providing students with the best opportunity to thrive. Together, we can create a strong foundation for our students’ success, fostering a sense of belonging and a love for learning.
I thoroughly love my job and am excited about the journey ahead. I look forward to witnessing the growth and achievements of each and every member of our VPS family.
Thank you for entrusting us with the education and well-being of your children.
Warm regards,
Voula Pounendis
Meet our leadership staff
Meet our leadership staff
Ms Thuy Tran
Deputy Principal
Thuy Tran, our Deputy Principal, is a passionate and dedicated leader who upholds our school values and high quality expectations. She has a strong connection with the community and is committed to further supporting our children and families.
Ms Thuy Tran, Deputy Principal
Thuy Tran, our Deputy Principal, is a passionate and dedicated leader who upholds our school values and high quality expectations. She has a strong connection with the community and is committed to further supporting our children and families.
Miss Jess Nguyen
Wellbeing Leader
Miss Jess focuses on our school wellbeing. With a background in psychology & counselling, she supports students with social, emotional, & behavioural challenges. Miss Jess gives students & families a safe space to talk & problem solve so students can continue their learning journey with confidence.
Miss Jess Nguyen, Wellbeing Leader
Miss Jess focuses on our school wellbeing. With a background in psychology & counselling, she supports students with social, emotional, & behavioural challenges. Miss Jess gives students & families a safe space to talk & problem solve so students can continue their learning journey with confidence.
Mrs Michelle Gray
Assistant Principal/Curriculum
Michelle Gray, our Assistant Principal, focuses on curriculum, teaching and learning. She will work closely with staff to ensure they are supported to implement Statements of Practice in classrooms and priorities on our site improvement plan are enacted.
Mrs Michelle Gray, Assistant Principal/Curriculum
Michelle Gray, our Assistant Principal, focuses on curriculum, teaching and learning. She will work closely with staff to ensure they are supported to implement Statements of Practice in classrooms and priorities on our site improvement plan are enacted.
Teaching staff
Reception teacher
Miss Catherine Macdonald
Reception teacher
Miss Nicole Woortman
Reception/Year 1 teacher
Miss Juno Holbert
Year 1 teacher
Miss Christina Tsonis
Year 1 teacher
Mrs Mary Spencer & Mrs Rachele Bexis
Year 2 teacher
Miss Jessica Luckman & Mrs Tahnee Hunt
Year 2 teacher
Miss Katerina Skoumbros
Year 2/Year 3 teacher
Mrs Sabrina Sliskovic & Mrs Thuy Nguyen
Year 3 teacher
Mrs Belinda Haley
Year 3 teacher
Mrs Breanna Slater
Year 4 teacher
Mr Jarred Page
Year 4/Year 5 teacher
Mr Andrew Romeo
Year 5 teacher
Miss Rachael Pitt
Year 5 teacher
Ms Cathy Lock
Year 6 teacher
Mrs Nicole Gogoll & Mrs Michelle Gray
Year 6 teacher
Mr Ryan Humphreys
Support staff
Principal Assistant/Front Office
Ms Deborah Smith
Front Office
Mrs Rebecca Mickel
Finance
Mrs Donna Richards
Librarian
Ms Leonie Watts
SSO
Mrs Mimi Azzurro
SSO Intervention
Mrs Hayley Klose
SSO
Ms Lia Jurkovic
SSO
Mrs Shirley Moros
SSO
Ms Jacqui Rowe
SSO
Mr Simon Wills-Jones
SSO
Mrs Bernadette Van-der Walt
SSO
Mr Trent Robinson
Canteen Manager
Karen McKeon
OSHC Director
Nisha Ahrens
Kitchen Garden/Groundsman
Brenton Spencer
Groundsman
Simon Costello
Executive Facilitator
Jodie Spano