Our Boarding Team

Kristen Armitage

Deputy Principal - Students (Day & Boarding)

Kristen joins our College community as the new Director of Students, bringing extensive leadership experience and a passion for student wellbeing. With a Master of Education in Guidance and Counselling and a strong pastoral leadership background since 2016, Kristen excels in creating supportive environments for students. She is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and recently received the 2024 Professor Gerry Tehan Psychology Teaching Award for Excellence.

As part of the College Leadership Team, Kristen will oversee Pastoral Care and Wellbeing, collaborating with key staff to ensure all students thrive. Outside of work, she has coached athletics for 20 years and supports the creative industries. Kristen is also a proud mother of two daughters in creative fields and shares her home with two Labradors. We are excited to welcome Kristen in 2025 and look forward to the positive impact she will bring.

Paula Henderson

Dean of Boarding

Jo Gilmore

Assistant Dean of Boarding - Academic

Joanne Gilmore is an experienced educational leader with more than 30 years of teaching and leadership experience across Australia and the United Kingdom. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Special Honours) in History and Economic and Social History and a Master of Educational Leadership, with extensive expertise in literacy, curriculum development, academic achievement, and middle years education.

Joanne currently serves as Assistant Director of Boarding - Academics, where she supports the academic progress, wellbeing, and personal growth of boarding students. Working closely with students, families, and staff, she helps create a structured and supportive boarding environment that promotes resilience, independence, strong study habits, and academic success.

Previously working as a Literacy Coach and Director of Teaching and Learning, Joanne has led whole-school literacy and curriculum initiatives designed to improve student outcomes and build confident, capable learners. She understands the importance families place on educational excellence and values strong partnerships between home and school.

Known for her caring and approachable nature, Joanne believes literacy is the foundation of success and that every student’s pathway is unique. She is passionate about helping young people grow in confidence, character, and achievement as they prepare for life beyond school.

Gemma Stevens

Assistant Dean of Boarding - Formation & Wellbeing

Gemma's journey through education has been a global adventure, driven by her passion for fostering learning and growth in young minds. With a wealth of experience spanning state, private, and independent schools across the UK, South Korea, and Australia, she brings a unique perspective shaped by diverse cultural landscapes. Gemma has a Bachelor in Sport and Physical Education and having held leadership roles including Head of Year, Second in Department, Director of Boarding, and Housemistress, Gemma's commitment to student welfare and development is at the core of her professional ethos.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Gemma's interests are as varied as the countries she's called home. She loves all sport, travelling, cooking, volunteering, reading, and gardening.

Sarah Silinju

Coordinator of Logistics, Activities & Administration - Boarding

Alex O'Neil

Years 7 - 9 Residential Leader

Nicole Brady

Years 7 - 9 Residential Leader

Talitha Smith

Years 10 - 12 Residential Leader