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

VOULA-POUNENDIS-PRINCIPAL-VIRGINIA2-PS

Meet our leadership staff

Meet our leadership staff

Thuy Tran Deputy Principal Virginia

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