Meet our Leaders

Aoife McCarthy | Principal

Hello Everyone, my name is Aoife and I’m proud to be the Principal here at Saint Francis de Sales. I joined the team in November 2024 and have loved getting to know our warm and welcoming community. I have a passion for learning and am on a continuous quest to find out more about the conditions we can create to ensure children are engaged and supported.
I grew up in Ireland, all of my family live over there so my favourite thing to do is go back home and spend time with my five nephews and little niece. I love reading, spending time with friends and taking my two highly energetic dogs to the park to burn off some steam. When we get the chance my husband Cameron and I like to head off on long drives and check out all that this beautiful country has to offer.

Penny Sutton | Deputy Principal, Learning Diversity Leader

Hi, I’m Penny and I am embarking on a new role at St Francis as Learning Diversity Leader, which allows me to integrate my passion for student individual needs with playing a key role in shaping a school culture as Deputy Principal.

With a deep commitment to educational equity, I work closely with staff, students, and families to ensure that all learners, regardless of their needs or backgrounds, receive the support and resources necessary for success. 

I have been at St Francis de Sales for over five years now and feel that our school is setting high standards for education. We are a team who are constantly working to improve ourselves and never give up on supporting our students.

Simon Maltese | Education in Faith Leader

Hi I am Simon, I am a passionate and dedicated Religious Education Leader and Art Teacher here at St Francis de Sales.

It is great to be able to work in such a great nurturing and engaging learning environment where every child can reach their full potential. Our school allows our students to be curious and creative, which makes learning both fun and meaningful. Our school community is welcoming and here at St Francis de Sales we really are a family!

Amelia Morse | Learning and Teaching and Literacy Leader

I am a passionate educator, with over 25 years teaching and leadership experience. St. Francis de Sales is a place that makes you feel welcomed, challenged and valued. I love getting to know the students across all year levels and seeing them grow in their learning. Outside of work I love going to the gym, cooking, travelling and spending time with my family and friends.

Belynda Horne | Wellbeing Leader

Hi everyone, I’m Belynda! I’ve worn a few different hats in my time at St Francis since joining the community in 2019, and I have loved and learned from them all. This year, after returning from parental leave, it is my great privilege to be leading Wellbeing at our school. I completed my Master’s in this area in 2019, and I am deeply passionate about working to create the conditions for our young people to thrive. For me, this work is hinged on my favourite quote from St Francis, “Be who you are and be that well.”

Outside of school, I love to spend time with my friends and family, which now includes a sweet little son of my own. Hobbies like reading, cooking, visiting a new place, and seeing live music spark joy for me.

Kerry Dougherty | Numeracy and Intervention Leader

Hi I am Kerry

I am a passionate and dedicated mathematics teacher and leader who strives to make math exciting and meaningful for every student. My goal is to help students build confidence and a positive attitude toward math by encouraging problem-solving, curiosity, and perseverance. I also work closely with other teachers to ensure the best possible learning experience for all students. My greatest joy comes from helping students discover their own abilities and watching them have those “ahha” moments when they realise they really can do it!
In my spare time I enjoy being active in the great outdoors, hiking, swimming, camping and exercising. My favourite place to be is the beach.

Emily Pereira | Learning Technologies Leader

I am so fortunate to teach Years 3 and 4 at St Francis de Sales. I joined the school in 2020 after completing my final teaching placement here in 2019. I am passionate about creating a welcoming classroom community where students feel excited to learn. I strive to make learning engaging and meaningful by combining my passion for literacy with the use of digital technologies. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, reading, and spending time with my family and my beloved puppy, Benji.