Meet the 26 new principals at South Australians public and private schools for 2025
A leader determined to boost the reputation of her northern suburbs school is among the new crop of principals taking charge at SA campuses this year. See the list.
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Amanda Walsh is determined to make all students at Playford International College proud to come to school.
She only started her new role as principal of the northern suburbs school two weeks ago but already has big plans for change.
“Previously Playford has been that school that’s out north and it’s … talked about, occasionally negatively for something that may have happened here,” said Ms Walsh, who just celebrated 30 years in education.
“But I want to lift it up and talk about the awesome things that happen here.”
The principal is among the group of new leaders – listed below – beginning in 2025 at public and private schools.
Ms Walsh previously worked in leadership roles at Glenunga International High School and Norwood International High School, where she said “they were very proud of their school”.
In particular, she wants to work with Playford’s community and focus on upgrading infrastructure.
“Both of the sites I was previously at were leafy green … the infrastructure with ICT was incredible and new rooms, new furniture, airconditioning working well,” Ms Walsh said.
“Infrastructure is something we need to prioritise so that people walk into our place and they feel proud of it.”
The key to building pride in the school and making students want to attend is “building their own self agency about how they can add value to the school,” Ms Walsh said.
“The kids here, they want to learn, they want to be the best they can be and there’s a lot of energy and work that goes around working with young people around here.”
MEET 25 MORE NEW SA SCHOOL PRINCIPALS FOR 2025
St Agnes School – Nick Joyce, 33
Previous experience: Middle and upper primary teacher at several schools in Adelaide’s northeast. Most recently I’ve spent the past 5 years working in a curriculum leadership position as assistant principal at Settlers Farm Campus in Paralowie.
Looking forward to: Being part of the St Agnes School community and continuing the great work that is already happening. Building positive relationships with staff, students, and families and helping our students be the best learners that they can be.
Biggest challenge for 2025: I’m sure there will be many, along with a lot of new leanings, but the challenges are where you grow and learn.
Likes: Spending time with my kids, reading, playing golf – though I don’t get to do that as often as I’d like.
Dislikes/Pet hate: Negativity and closed off attitudes.
Mimili Anangu School – Will Kearvell, 35
Previous experience: I’ve worked as an SSO, boarding supervisor, teacher, learning co-ordinator, deputy principal and principal and have been living and working on the APY Lands since 2018.
Looking forward to: Building relationships with the Mimili community and working towards positive outcomes for children, families and staff in an enriching and inspiring environment. It is a privilege to live and work amid the oldest continuous culture in the world.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance while consistently striving to engage Anangu learners through innovative ways.
Likes: Visiting friends and family on breaks away from school. Chips and gravy from the roadhouse and listening to the cricket on long drives.
Dislikes/Pet hate: Ego and coriander.
Hendon Primary School – Reece Campbell, 31
Previous experience: Most recently, I had the privilege of serving as deputy principal at Hendon Primary School. Before this role, I taught junior primary students in northern Adelaide and held a senior leadership position where I managed and supported students with disabilities. My career began more than a decade ago in rural South Australia at Port Neill Primary School, where I taught a small mixed grade class that grew from four to more than 20 students. This experience provided me with invaluable skills ‘wearing many hats’, and a deep appreciation for rural education.
Looking forward to: I am incredibly excited to foster an exceptional culture at Hendon Primary School, leading evidence-based practices to achieve the best outcomes for our students. Collaborating with our dedicated staff, my aim is to support excellence in education and build strong relationships with the wider community to enhance opportunities for our students. Our school is revitalised with cutting-edge literacy programs and evidence-based teaching strategies, thanks to our passionate and committed team.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Continuing to find meaningful ways to connect and involve our most valuable assets – our parents and community – into the life of Hendon Primary School.
Likes: I am passionate about building a culture of collaboration, trust and continuous learning. I am an advocate for and value taking care of personal wellbeing. I enjoy going to the gym, walking, and spending time with my lively cocker spaniels, Toby and Harley.
Dislikes/Pet hate: I prefer organised and calm environments, as clutter and overstimulating spaces can be distracting.
Keyneton Primary School – Emily Barr, 32
Previous experience: With 10 years of experience in education, I’ve had the privilege of working in a variety of teaching roles. My first permanent teaching position was at Angle Vale Primary School, where I had the opportunity to grow professionally, eventually progressing to the role of assistant principal. My work there was particularly focused on students with disabilities, a passion I continue to carry with me. Most recently I worked as an Inclusive Educator, supporting some incredible schools and preschools in Adelaide’s northern suburbs and in the second half of last year I had the honour of serving as co-principal at Robertstown Primary School.
Looking forward to: Getting to know our students, families and community and making our school environment the most fun and engaging place it can be.
Biggest challenge for 2025: This year marks an exciting milestone for Keyneton Primary school, as we celebrate our 100th anniversary! Planning this centenary celebration will undoubtedly be a massive undertaking, requiring the collaboration of staff, students, families, and the wider community. I’m looking forward to commemorating this incredible achievement and creating lasting memories for all involved.
Likes: Whether it’s dance, visual arts or craft related activities, I love exploring and expressing creativity. I’m also a huge fan of reading and the Star Wars universe. My favourite animal is the capybara, and I have enjoyed seeing them at Adelaide Zoo recently. Lastly, if you ever visit my office, you’ll notice a lot of pink – it’s my favourite colour.
Dislikes/Pet hate: Non-inclusive practices in schools. Every student deserves a learning environment where they feel valued and supported. I also can’t stand when the laminator gets jammed – it’s a small thing but all teachers will understand how frustrating this is!
East Marden Primary School – Phillipa Arbuckle, 41
Previous experience: I’ve had a range of teaching and leadership roles across a variety of school settings including country, northern and northeastern Adelaide.
Most looking forward to: Continuing to lead the vibrant and diverse East Marden Primary School community, collaboratively working with students, parents and our dedicated staff team to create highly successful academic and wellbeing outcomes for all our learners.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Challenges are all part of our work and support continuous learning, personal and professional growth.
Likes: Professionally – working alongside inspiring and enthusiastic educators who empower children to reach their potential. Personally – being in nature, meditation and spending time with family and friends.
Dislikes: Unkind behaviour.
Munno Para Primary School – Andrew Castenetto, 43
Previous experience: As a teacher, I worked at a range of schools in Adelaide as well as refining and developing my practice in the UK. I have an extensive leadership background ranging from roles as a wellbeing leader, curriculum co-ordinator and deputy principal.
Most looking forward to: Working closely with our amazing staff and students and continuing to strengthen our community relationships, which are vital for fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. A significant part of our journey this year will be enhancing the wellbeing outcomes of our students and ensuring they feel a sense of safety and belonging at our school.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Cultivating a climate where our school staff feel supported and fostering an environment of open communication, collaboration and professional growth. Day in, day out, our staff work tirelessly to improve the learning outcomes of our wonderful students; an important part of my work is to ensure they have the tools and resources to do this effectively.
Likes: Music, family time, travel, exercise, trips to the beach, podcasts, reading and delicious food.
Pet hate: Cold showers.
Bordertown Primary School – Kylie Staude, 51
Previous experience: Having lived in the Bordertown community all my life I am passionate about the families and students who attend our school. I began teaching at Bordertown Primary School in 2000, becoming the wellbeing teacher in 2015 and have taken on various deputy and assistant principal roles at the school since 2018.
Most looking forward to: Providing continuity of leadership to our school community, staff, students and families. Supporting our dedicated staff to provide our diverse students safe learning environments where every child can be successful.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Learning the relevant processes to ensure our school runs smoothly.
Likes: Long walks, gardening, relaxing in my egg chair and connecting with students.
Dislikes/Pet hate: Being late and snakes.
Ascot Park Primary School – Sam Kennedy, 43
Previous experience: Teacher and leader at Ascot Park Primary School. I have also worked in curriculum and lead roles within regional and head office.
Most looking forward to: Working with our students, staff and families to keep building on to the great things that are happening at the school.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Managing time and prioritising the workload.
Likes: At work – learning and improving alongside our staff. Personally – I enjoy spending time outside with my wife, kids and dogs.
Lenswood Primary School – Sokhan Greenwood, 43
Previous experience: I have worked in many different schools in the northern suburbs and Adelaide Hills as a teacher before taking on leadership roles. I was deputy principal at Angaston Primary for a number of years. Previous to this, I was assistant principal at Ingle Farm Primary.
Most looking forward to: Working alongside the staff, students and families at Lenswood. They are a dedicated and collaborative community who give so much to ensure their small school has the resources and opportunities to support and challenge learning. The Public Education Strategy is an exciting time to be a school leader as we can really highlight the assets of our local context. And the views are pretty special!
Biggest challenge for 2025: Being a sole leader is a new experience for me. I will need to ensure that I use my local and broader networks to keep connected. Having a few experienced principals in my personal network as well as the local education team will support me with this new challenge.
Likes: I love anything outdoors – beach, camping, hiking, running. I love spending time with my family, travelling and seeing new things together.
Dislikes/Pet hate: I avoid negative people and situations as much as possible.
Seaview High School – Craig Duguid, 47
Previous experience: Deputy principal at Hallett Cove School and Aberfoyle Park High School, principal consultant for year 7 to high school at the Department for Education, and assistant principal at Blackwood High School.
Most looking forward to: Leading the committed and caring team at Seaview High School to consolidate and amplify the awesome positive school and learning culture for the benefit of all members of the school community.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Finding the right balance between the status quo and opportunities for improvement.
Likes: Challenging and rewarding work and the opportunity to make a positive difference with and for others in my professional life. Spending time with family and friends, running, gardening, camping, the outback and the beach/ocean in my personal life. Having a positive attitude and smiling in all aspects of my life!
Dislikes/Pet hate: Closed mindsets, negative attitudes and my mates having a better lawn than me!
Auburn Primary School – Skye Irwin
Previous experience: Before stepping into the role of principal, I had a range of experiences across various school settings, both rural and metropolitan. My passion for early years learning, literacy, and inclusion for students with disabilities opened leadership opportunities. These experiences have been instrumental in developing my capacity to lead, allowing me to develop inclusive and supportive educational environments that prioritise the needs and potential of every student.
Most looking forward to: This is an especially exciting time to work and lead in education as we delve into our strategy for public education, develop our site learning plan, and explore the new South Australian curriculum. I am enthusiastic about strengthening relationships with families, collaborating with our local community to foster new initiatives, and welcoming new families to our thriving community. Together, we will create an enriching and supportive environment for all of our students.
Biggest challenge for 2025: My challenge as principal is to ensure that students at Auburn Primary School, along with our wider community, have access to the necessary services and facilities to guarantee a high-quality education.
Likes: Creating cherished memories with friends and family is invaluable.
Clare High School – Natasha Dunn, 53
Previous experience: Assistant principal of senior school at Golden Grove High School, assistant principal of pedagogy at Henley High School, R-12 English and literacy leader at Kadina Memorial School and an AITSL certified lead teacher 2015 – current.
Most looking forward to: Working with my teachers to build belonging and connection with each other, the students and the wider community.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Implementing and educating the community about changes to pedagogy and learning with the Public Education Strategy and the SACE Renewal agenda.
Likes: I love teaching, and I am very passionate about working with leaders to greaten their capacity as leaders.
Dislikes/Pet hate: Negativity.
Wallaroo Mines Primary School – Adele Keleher, 44
Previous experience: Various leadership and corporate roles. I was actually principal of Wallaroo Mines Primary School before taking on the curriculum lead role. I am very excited to be back!
Most looking forward to: Bringing back all the learning I have done in the various roles and improving on what I achieved last time I was here. I also can’t wait to work with the staff, students and families – they are the best.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Remembering all the processes that take place within the site.
Likes: Spending time with family and friends. I love doing experiences with my children.
Dislikes/Pet hate: People who don’t have manners.
Marryatville Primary School – David Muldoon, 35
Previous experience: I have been fortunate to work in a variety of schools and roles throughout my career in education. My journey began at Linden Park Primary School, where I transitioned from teaching early years physical education and year 5 into leadership positions. This led to a secondment with the Department for Education, where I served as the data and performance lead in the Review, Improvement, and Accountability Directorate. My first role as a principal was at Salisbury Heights Primary School, after which I embraced an exciting opportunity to lead an international school in Mexico. This was an incredible and enriching experience, but I am thrilled to return to South Australia and begin my next chapter.
Most looking forward to: Starting at a new school is always an exciting experience and this year is no exception. I’m most looking forward to building meaningful relationships with students, staff, and the wider community, and getting to know everyone on a personal level. It’s going to be a rewarding journey.
Biggest challenge for 2025: My biggest challenge for 2025 is also the one I’m most excited about — welcoming our first child in early April. It’s a life-changing experience outside of education and I’m looking forward to embracing both the joys and challenges of parenthood.
Likes: A range of sports, reading and being active.
Dislikes/Pet hate: When my coffee goes cold.
Athelstone School – Michael Cain, 49
Previous experience: Assistant principal, education director support leader.
Most looking forward to: Working with new staff, students and families at a new site and being a curious learner.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Exploring the SA curriculum and how we can further support students to develop their capabilities as learners.
Likes: Being outdoors, walking at Linear Park, reading.
Dislikes/Pet hate: When people stand too close to the luggage carousel at the airport.
Valley View Secondary School – Nathan Cini, 39
Previous experience: I was the deputy principal, including 18 months as principal at Mitcham Girls High School. Prior to this, I was an executive leader at Playford International College.
Most looking forward to: Joining the team at Valley View Secondary School. I am excited to learn about our school and meet the people that make up our vibrant and diverse community.
Biggest challenge for 2025: I look forward to the opportunity to partner with our students and their families, as well as collaborate with staff in our relentless pursuit of improved learning and wellbeing outcomes for all our students.
Likes: Hiking, travelling.
Dislikes/Pet hate: Being late.
Morphett Vale Primary School – Melissa Mundy, 49
Previous experience: 2025 will be my 25th year of working in education. I worked in England when I first graduated and then worked in independent, Catholic and public schools.
Most looking forward to: Continuing to build Morphett Vale Primary School’s connection with the community and strengthening our volunteer base to positively support our students. I am excited to work closely with the leadership team, teachers and SSOs to ensure every student thrives both academically and personally.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Navigating the responsibilities of the new role while maintaining strong connections with students, families and staff.
Likes: Spending time with family and friends, bush walking and playing netball (although a recent injury is preventing this).
Dislikes/Pet hate: Meanness and negativity.
Orroroo Area School – Pete Usher, 43
Previous experience: I have spent the past 17 years working in a variety of teaching and leadership roles in the Catholic and public sectors. My most recent position was working at the Whyalla Secondary College as an assistant principal.
Most looking forward to: Being a part of the school and wider Orroroo community. Working with an amazing team to continuously improve and develop learning opportunities for all our students to achieve their dreams and future pathways.
Biggest challenge for 2025: I have no doubt working within a new site will be my biggest challenge. Also ensuring I balance my work with family life, as the position has created some challenges with distance.
Likes: Outside of work I love spending time with my family, and I am a sports fanatic. Go the Swans!
Dislikes/Pet hate: Being late, I would rather be really early than really late. I also dislike quiet space – background noise allows me to concentrate.
Willsden Primary School – Lexia Fullerton
Previous experience: Educator at Willsden Primary School for more than 12 years working in many roles across the school.
Most looking forward to: Working with our great team of staff at Willsden Primary School to support students to achieve their learning goals, along with building strong relationships with the community to enhance opportunities for our students.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Creating the right conditions and support for all of our staff to perform at their best, particularly our classroom teachers who put their heart and soul into their work and students on a daily basis.
Likes: Everything outdoors – sports, gardening, the beach, camping.
Dislikes/Pet hate: Negative behaviours and mindsets.
Raukkan Aboriginal School – Ceri Price, 52
Previous experience: I started my career in the Adelaide Hills working at both large and small primary schools, mainly teaching upper primary. In 2017 I went to Raukkan as a teacher and fell in love with the school, community and land. In 2018 I became permanent at Keith Area School, and while there I started my Masters in Special and Inclusive Education and was lucky enough to win the role of autism inclusion teacher. I was always highly involved in the education of our Aboriginal students, as well as a passionate advocate for students with disabilities.
Most looking forward to: Forging close, strong and trusting relationships with the school and wider community. I can’t wait to meet the students and spend time with them, both in and out the classroom.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Leading the learning for the students while establishing strong relationships and navigating my way around a new role.
Likes: I love spending time with family and friends as well as reading, crocheting, bike riding, and walking. Living on the Coorong, I look forward to sitting and watching the birds on the lake.
Dislikes/Pet hate: Being late.
Melrose Primary School – Michelle Fay, 49
Previous experience: Deputy principal at Whyalla Special Education Centre (three years), inclusion leader for Whyalla Secondary College, wellbeing leader at Whyalla Special Education Centre (one year), director of Whyalla Town Primary School OSHC (two-and-a-half years).
Most looking forward to: Getting more involved with the Melrose community.
Biggest challenge for 2025: Being away from my family.
Likes: Cups of tea, and anything crafty.
Dislikes/Pet hate: Spiders EEEEK!
FULL LIST: SA’S MOST EXPENSIVE SCHOOL RANKINGS
St Paul’s College – Patrick Harmer
Former Cardijn College deputy principal Patrick Harmer took over from Paul Belton at St Paul’s College at the start of the 2025 school year.
Immanuel College – John Thompson
Immanuel College, in Novar Gardens, appointed John Thompson as its new principal to replace interim Paul Wright at the start of the year.
It comes after John Tiver was due to begin a five-year term as principal of the independent school when students returned to campus at the end of January 2024 but resigned in December 2023.
Mr Thompson was most recently in the top job at Victory Lutheran College in Victoria, a post he held since 2015.
Prior to that, Mr Thompson was deputy principal at Faith Lutheran College in the Barossa Valley.
Mr Thompson said he joined Immanuel College with “excitement”.
“I feel very humbled by the opportunity entrusted by the College Council to continue building on the strong foundations of those who have come before me,” Mr Thompson said.
Mr Thompson’s wife Laura is an old scholar at the school and his father-in-law, Stephen Rudolph, is a past principal of Immanuel Primary School.
Mr Thompson has two children who started at Immanuel College from 2025.
Pulteney Grammar – Greg Atterton
Greg Atterton, who was Pulteney’s deputy principal from 2015 to 2020, spent the past three years as deputy headmaster and head of secondary school at Prince Alfred College.
Prior to that, he also served as head of middle school at Walford Anglican School for Girls for eight years.
All three of Mr Atterton and his wife Lisa’s children had attended Pulteney.
Mr Atterton took over the top job from Cameron Bacholer, who resigned in 2023 after an independent review of the leadership at the top private institution.
Since Mr Bacholer’s departure, deputy principal Deb Dalwood has acted as the school’s interim leader.
St John’s Grammar – Ben Manifold
Wilderness School deputy principal Ben Manifold will begin at St John’s from term three this year after current head Richard Anderson formally retires.
Mr Manifold said he was “thrilled and humbled” to join St John’s.
“Exceptional educational outcomes occur when students, staff, families and the broader community come together to create a place where everyone feels valued, empowered and connected,” Mr Manifold said.
Mr Manifold holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Education.
The incoming principal will engage in a handover process over multiple weeks in term two in which he will work closely with Mr Anderson and members of the school leadership team.
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Originally published as Meet the 26 new principals at South Australians public and private schools for 2025
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