Our principal and staff

Our school team is committed to every student’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging. We work together to create a supportive and inclusive school where every child is set up for success.

I am proud to be the Principal of Waterfall Public School and to work alongside our wonderful students, staff, and families. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about creating learning environments where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to achieve their personal best.

With experience teaching across multi-stage classrooms, I understand the importance of tailoring learning to meet the needs of all students. I am committed to providing engaging, high-quality teaching and learning that ensures every child can grow and thrive.

I believe strongly in the value of positive relationships, student voice, and community partnerships. At Waterfall Public School, I strive to build a culture of inclusion, respect, and opportunity, where students develop strong academic skills and the confidence and resilience they need for the future.

In our unique bushland setting, I combine my role as teacher and leader to offer rich learning opportunities and guide our school’s improvement journey. It is a privilege to lead Waterfall Public School and to see our students flourish every day.

Yvette Hopper

Principal of Waterfall Public School

Contact our school to learn about our teaching team

Our teaching staff

Your child’s school experience is shaped by the people around them. Our teachers bring experience, care and a passion for learning to every lesson. With a focus on success, they help every child reach their full potential.

I’m proud to be part of the caring and supportive community at Waterfall Public School. Teaching in our small, multi-stage classrooms gives me the opportunity to get to know every student and create meaningful learning experiences that build their confidence and inspire a love of learning.

I enjoy designing hands-on, engaging lessons that encourage students to explore, problem-solve, and work collaboratively. Seeing students grow, celebrate their achievements, and develop resilience is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.

It’s a privilege to teach in such a beautiful bushland setting and to work alongside our wonderful students, families, and staff each day.

Lauren Elton

I’m proud to be part of the Waterfall Public School community, working alongside our amazing students, families, and staff. I’m passionate about supporting student engagement and wellbeing, and I believe every student can achieve their personal best when given the right encouragement and high expectations.

With a focus on creating a positive and supportive learning environment, I’m committed to helping every student grow and succeed. I value the friendly and professional atmosphere our WPS staff work hard to maintain, where students and families always feel welcomed and supported.

Being part of this community is truly rewarding, and I look forward to continuing to help our students thrive both academically and personally.

Michael Breen

I am proud to be part of the Waterfall Public School community. Through our Outdoor Education program, I aim to inspire a lifelong love of nature and encourage students to care for the environment.

Through the lens of history and geography, I foster engagement and promote a positive sense of wellbeing, helping students connect with their learning in meaningful ways. Working with our wonderful students and staff on Dharawal land in the beautiful Royal National Park is a privilege, and I value the opportunity to learn and grow alongside them in such a unique setting.

David Houghton

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Our teachers make the difference

Committed to your child’s success

Our teachers ensure every student can thrive. They use proven ways to teach and tailor learning support for their students

Expert, connected and accredited

Our teachers are part of a strong education network and many have received awards and recognition for outstanding leadership, teaching and community engagement. This reflects their commitment to professional excellence and improvement, and ensures your child receives the highest quality teaching and learning every day.

 Teachers who never stop learning

Our teachers are lifelong learners. They stay current through regular training and keep improving how they teach students.

Teacher–family partnerships

Our teachers build trust through clear communication. Our families know that their child has support and is ready to learn.

Wellbeing and support staff

Our wellbeing and support staff guide student wellbeing, learning needs and inclusion. They work with teachers to make personalised adjustments. This means each child can take part fully in school life. We make our school welcoming and accessible to every child.

Tamara Mulquiny

I’m proud to be a School Learning Support Officer at Waterfall Public School. I’m especially passionate about supporting students’ mental health and wellbeing, and I love providing individualised support that helps every child feel safe, valued, and confident in their learning.

For me, the best part of my role is working alongside our amazing students and seeing them grow not only academically, but also emotionally and socially. Creating a positive and supportive environment where every child can thrive is what inspires me every day.

Beth Hobden

My name is Beth Hobden, and I am an SLSO at Waterfall Public School. I am passionate about supporting students in their learning journey, encouraging physical activity, and fostering the values of respect and resilience.

The most rewarding part of my role is seeing students achieve their goals and experiencing the joy and confidence that comes with their success.

Olivia Browning

Hi, I’m Olivia Browning, and I’m one of the School Learning Support Officers at Waterfall Public School. I’m currently studying to become a primary school teacher, and working in this role has been an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience while supporting our amazing students each day.

I absolutely love working with children and feel lucky to be part of such a caring and inclusive school community. My role allows me to provide individual and small-group support, assist in classrooms, and help students feel confident and capable in both their learning and themselves. It’s especially rewarding to see their growth and celebrate their achievements—big and small.

Being part of Waterfall Public School has strengthened my passion for education, and I’m excited to continue learning and growing alongside our students and staff as I work toward becoming a qualified teacher.

Administrative and operations staff

Our administrative and operations staff keep our school running smoothly. They support students, teachers and families every day. You can find them in our front office or on the school grounds.

Louise Dorsman

I love being part of the Waterfall Public School community and serving as a welcoming face in the office, supporting our students and families each day. Whether it’s signing in students when they arrive late, helping during Tuesday morning reading, or having a chat in the playground, I enjoy being involved in school life.

I’m always happy to assist families with their questions, whether about excursions, fees, or the school canteen. I take pride in being approachable, helpful, and friendly, and I value being part of such a caring school community.

My goal is to ensure that students and parents feel comfortable, supported, and welcome every time they visit the office.

Terry Bruce

I’m the General Assistant at Waterfall Public School, where I’ve proudly worked for over three years. I look after the school grounds and carry out a wide range of maintenance tasks to help keep our environment safe, clean, and running smoothly. I take great pride in supporting our staff and students behind the scenes, and I enjoy both the variety of the job and being part of such a friendly, close-knit school community.

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

Additional learning support

At Waterfall Public School, we recognise that some students may need extra help to reach their full potential. Our teachers and Student Learning Support Officers (SLSOs) work closely with families to provide tailored strategies, adjustments, and targeted programs that meet each child’s individual needs. This may include support in literacy and numeracy, social and emotional development, or assistance with classroom engagement. We are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where every student is supported, valued, and able to succeed.

Stories and highlights

Every day at Waterfall Public School brings new achievements and memorable experiences. From classroom learning and creative projects to excursions, cultural programs, and community events, our students are always engaged in meaningful opportunities to grow and succeed. We proudly share these moments to celebrate the accomplishments of our students and showcase the vibrant life of our school.

Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram to see our latest stories, photos, and highlights.