Our School

Principal’s Message

It is an absolute honour and privilege to be the first principal of Karwan Primary School.

I am a Principal who cares for his staff whilst ensuring students are at the centre of everything we do. I have a strong belief in the connection between student health and well-being and academic growth, and decisions made will have this belief at the forefront. Our motto “growing as we learn, learning as we grow” further demonstrates our commitment.

Karwan Primary School provides a stimulating, creative and challenging learning environment where students achieve their personal best. They are supported to grow socially, emotionally and academically, to become respectful, responsible and resilient members of a global community. We offer a robust educational experience for all students through effective communication, strong collaboration and high-impact, research-based teaching.

Karwan Primary School has established an outstanding, comprehensive teaching and learning program in all curriculum areas. Additional programs include visual and performing arts, physical education, and science. Outside School Hours Care (OSHC), water experience, camps for years 2-6, lunchtime clubs, incursions, and excursions will be provided with the aim to “empower everyone to reach their full potential, today and into the future.”

We are privileged to have such culturally diverse students at our school. Our students are disciplined, intelligent, resilient, creative, imaginative, dedicated to lifelong learning, respectful and ethical. They will leave Karwan Primary School, with the skills, mindsets and qualities that will best equip them for success in the world of the future. They are the future leaders and role models of society.

Teachers plan collaboratively to provide a challenging and stimulating broad-based curriculum, which is grounded on a solid foundation of literacy and numeracy skills. We offer high-quality, strategic professional development, utilising expertise within and beyond the school.

The active participation of parents and carers within the school community will be a highly valued feature of our school. A strong partnership with parents will be developed and considered essential in our endeavours to ensure successful learning achievement for every child.

We will have state-of-the-art buildings and infrastructure, which will further support the high-quality experiences our students will receive.

Vision & Values

Motto

Growing as we learn, learning as we grow

Vision

Karwan Primary School’s vision is to empower everyone to reach their full potential, today and into the future.

Mission

At Karwan Primary School we:

  • provide a safe environment in which every person is equal, and everyone is known and valued,
  • deliver a stimulating learning program where differing needs are acknowledged, accepted and met,
  • develop confident, passionate, and curious learners who discover their interests and grow in their love of learning,
  • grow links with the local, wider and global communities, and
  • cultivate a sense of pride in our school.

Values

Karwan Primary School’s values are respect, responsibility and resilience.

Respect

We show care and concern for other people, property and the environment.

Responsibility

We show accountability for our actions and accept the consequences of our decisions.

Resilience

We show adaptability, optimism, and strength of character to cope with life’s difficulties and challenges.

Our Team

Principal Ashley Craig

Ashley has taught at Broadmeadows Primary School and Altona Primary School. Most recently, he was principal at Seaholme Primary School. Ashley is proud to be the founding principal of Karwan Primary School and is excited to begin establishing a community-centred school built to help students to grow into global citizens.

Assistant Principal – Head of Health and Wellbeing Christelle Haikal

I am delighted to be joining the Karwan Primary School community. I have spent the last 8 years at Tarneit P-9 College, where I was a classroom teacher and more recently a Maths and Engagement Learning Specialist. I’m looking forward to meeting and working with you all to build a strong and inclusive learning environment for our students.

Assistant Principal – Head of Teaching and Learning Robert Nikolic

I am excited to be part of the Karwan Primary School community. I have previously worked at Creekside K-9 College where I spent over 10 years, in roles as a Classroom Teacher and Leading Teacher. I also spent 12 months as an Acting Assistant Principal at Truganina P-9 College. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing sports and catching up with friends while having a coffee. I am looking forward to working closely with the community to create a welcoming and safe environment in which our students can excel.

Learning Specialist Teacher Tianna Baquero

My name is Tianna Baquero and I am so delighted to be a part of the Karwan Primary School community this year. For the past 5 years I have been a classroom teacher and PLC leader at Featherbrook P-9 College. This year I am very fortunate enough to be a Year 1 classroom teacher and learning specialist. I am dedicated to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment where students’ wellbeing and learning is at the centre. When I am not at work, I love spending time with my family, friends and my King Charles Cavalier called Oscar.

Learning Specialist Teacher Erika Borinaga

My name is Erika, and I am thrilled to continue my teaching journey as one of the founding teachers at Karwan Primary School. I am passionate about building an inclusive learning environment and fostering strong relationships as the Disability Inclusion Learning Specialist and Year 2 Professional Learning Team leader. When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time at the beach and going out for brunch and dinner with friends. I also love going on spontaneous camping adventures with my husband. I look forward to continuing working within the community and ensuring that each student is in a positive environment where they can strive and excel.

Learning Specialist Teacher Hayley Brennan

My name is Hayley Brennan I am a classroom teacher and learning specialist at Karwan Primary School. I am fortunate enough to have worked in Wyndham for my entire teaching career and I love being a part of such a vibrant and diverse community. As a founding staff member of Karwan Primary School, I have loved the excitement that has come with building our positive school culture and setting up our own traditions. I am excited to continue to empower students to become lifelong learners who take positive risks in their learning. In my spare time, you will catch me with my dog Watson, travelling or supporting Collingwood Football Club. Go Pies!

Learning Specialist Teacher Olivia Burrow

My name is Olivia Burrow, I am a classroom teacher and learning specialist here at Karwan Primary school. I have been teaching in the Wyndham community for over 7 years. I am thrilled to be a founding member of Karwan Primary School. Being part of developing a new school provides such exciting opportunities to create new traditions, build strong relationships and foster a supportive and caring culture that allows everyone to strive. My passions outside of teaching include playing netball and football, going for runs, reading and spending time with my 2 sausage dogs. I am excited about establishing a safe and inclusive learning environment where we can achieve excellence together.

Learning Specialist Teacher Cass Elorza

Hi, I’m Mr. Elorza! I am excited to be a part of Karwan Primary School community and I look forward to meeting everyone within our school! I have previously taught at Creekside K-9 College and Tarneit Rise Primary School. I will be joining Karwan as a classroom teacher and learning specialist, where I look forward to supporting all learners on their educational journey. In my spare time, I am a cricket coach and I also work at a football club as a medical trainer. I love all types of sports, going to the beach, going camping, spending time with my family and having lots of fun! I cannot wait to meet everyone and have some fun whilst learning. See you soon!

Learning Specialist Teachert Chris Hennessy

After enjoying many great experiences teaching in the Western Suburbs for over a decade, I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the foundation team here at Karwan PS. I love the strong sense of support, professionalism and fun that exists within our staff and how this, combined with the support and enthusiasm from our families, has created a genuine community feel so quickly. When I am not teaching, I enjoy playing golf and spending time with my family and friends. I also dedicate much of my time to coaching and playing cricket, which I have done for many years. It has been a pleasure to see the start of the Karwan PS journey and I look forward to continuing to build a strong rapport with our students and families through a range of sports, physical activities and wellbeing programs.

Learning Specialist Teacher Kimberly Malloch

I am excited to take on my new teaching adventure as a learning specialist at Karwan Primary School. I have been a teacher for over 10 years. I have taught a variety of different year levels and have spent most of my career in the lower years of primary. Throughout my teaching career, I have built on my leadership experiences as a PLC leader for the cohorts. On a personal level, I am a wife, and a mother of two boys aged 6 years and 8 years who are sports-mad! Our weekends are taken up with swimming, basketball or footy so my hobbies revolve around the kids’ hobbies and being part of those community environments! I love great food and being around great company! I look forward to meeting everyone and working together as a partnership.

Learning Specialist Teacher Kirstin Molloy

It is a great privilege to be a part of the Karwan Primary School community and to be serving as one of the founding staff members during the school’s establishment in 2023. I have been teaching for many years, in schools in the west and also east of Melbourne. In my personal time, I enjoy reading, baking, hiking, lifting weights, spending time with friends and family and playing with my son. I have a profound love for the ocean and swimming and my favourite food is Mexican and seafood. Each year I am excited to welcome the students and families to our new school and to see them thrive in their learning journeys. Wominjeka!

Learning Specialist Teacher Jordyn Sacco

My name is Jordyn Sacco. I am a learning specialist and classroom teacher at Karwan Primary School. Throughout the last 8 years, I have been a classroom teacher and worked as a PLT leader in the younger years. I am passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive environment where students can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. As a founding staff member of Karwan Primary School, I have enjoyed working alongside the school community and my colleagues to help students achieve success in all aspects of their learning and development. I’m excited to continue this as our school and community grow. When I’m not at work I enjoy exercising, travelling, and finding new restaurants to visit.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Amanda Bancalari

Hi! My name is Amanda Bancalari, and I am very excited to have joined the Karwan Primary School community. I am originally from New York City where I started my studies in primary education, and I am now a graduate teacher from Deakin University. I am looking forward to building on my knowledge in primary education. I am passionate about creating a safe, inclusive, positive and fun environment for my students. Outside of teaching, I enjoy going to the beach, watching movies, walking my dog, and spending time with family and friends. I am looking forward to getting to know and grow with the students and families at Karwan Primary School!

Generalist Classroom Teacher Michaella Louise Belvez

Hi everyone! My name is Michaella Louise Belvez, and I am thrilled to be joining the Karwan Primary School community this year. I am a graduate teacher from RMIT University and have worked as a Kindergarten Teacher for almost two years in Altona Early Education Centre and One Early Education Truganina. This is my first-time teaching in a primary school setting, so I am extremely excited for what’s to come. I am passionate about creating an inclusive learning environment for the students as well as making sure their voices are heard. In my spare time, I enjoy reading books, going on road trips, and taking photos. I look forward to getting to know you all!

Generalist Classroom Teacher Lorna Beveridge

I am so excited to join the Karwan Primary School community. I am originally from Scotland where I began my teaching career, before moving to Melbourne over 12 years ago. I have taught across all year levels and have recently been working with students who are learning English. Outside of teaching I love visiting the zoo and discovering new parks with my two sons. I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know you all.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Chelsea Brennan

My name is Chelsea Brennan and I am thrilled to be a part of the Karwan team as a tutor. I am currently in my final year of studies at RMIT to become a teacher. In my spare time I enjoy watching the footy – I am a passionate Collingwood supporter. I also enjoy watching netball, listening to podcasts and spending time at the beach. I am looking forward to working in such a diverse and inclusive community.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Lis Bryce

Hi, my name is Lis Bryce, and I’ve been teaching for 15 years. I’m super excited to be joining Karwan Primary School in 2023 and being a part of working at a brand-new school for the second time in my teaching career. I’m grateful to be able to have had the opportunity to have taught in Australia and the UK, where I’ve worked across all year levels, in various roles and where I’ve gained invaluable experiences. Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, following sports, being at the beach and exercising. I pride myself on my ability to build strong connections with my students and all those involved in the school community. See you all soon!

Generalist Classroom Teacher Katherine Buenaventura

Hi, my name is Katherine and this will be my tenth year of teaching. I am excited to join Karwan Primary School this year. I have previously taught at Tarneit P-9 College, where I enjoyed working with the diverse community. I look forward to getting to know our students and the school community. Outside of school, I am often out and about with my family taking my two young kids to parks, playgrounds and going to the library. I enjoy spending time with my family, eating delicious desserts and travelling. I look forward to meeting you all!

Generalist Classroom Teacher Alexandra Buissink

My name is Alexandra Buissink, and I am excited to be part of the Karwan Primary School community. I am passionate about fostering an inclusive, engaging, and supportive environment, ensuring every student flourishes on their learning journey. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, exercising, going to the beach, and exploring new destinations through travel. I am excited to meet you all!

Generalist Classroom Teacher Adel Chami

‘Being apart of Karwan Primary School and the community from the beginning is so exciting. I have previously taught various year levels, and established leadership roles to further my teaching knowledge. Over the last two years I’ve been on maternity leave and have been blessed with two little boys. I’m an avid Arsenal FC and Collingwood FC supporter, you’ll most likely find me watching or listening to an EPL game in the mornings. I can’t wait to meet and grow with all the families at Karwan Primary School.’

Generalist Classroom Teacher Elena Souphanh Chan

My name is Elena Souphanh Chan and I am excited to be a part of the Karwan Primary School community. I am passionate about creating a learning environment where students feel appreciated and valued. In my spare time, I enjoy travelling, cooking and eating at new restaurants. I look forward to meeting you all and working in collaboration along this learning journey.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Lauren Crack

My name is Lauren Crack, and I am super excited to be part of the Karwan Primary School community. I have been teaching for 10 years! For the past 9 years, I have been at Broadmeadows Primary School as a Learning Specialist in Literacy, PLC Leader and Team Leader. I am extremely passionate about writing, and exploring all the different text types and their language features. In my spare time, I enjoy snuggling up with a good book with my gorgeous dog Camber and camping in the outback. I can’t wait to meet all the students and families at Karwan Primary School, and to continue our learning journey together.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Jenny Doan

Hi, I am Jenny Doan, and I am enthusiastic about being a part of the Karwan Primary School Community. I am a graduate teacher from Melbourne University, and I am very excited to embark on my teaching journey in our newly established school. I am dedicated to establishing an inclusive and captivating learning environment that embraces and supports all students. In my spare time, you’ll find me delved in some arts and crafts, painting, drawing, listening to music or watching a TV show. I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know you all!

Generalist Classroom Teacher Montana Dumesny

Hi! My name is Montana Dumesny, and I am super excited to begin my teaching career at Karwan Primary School whilst completing my Bachelor of Education at Victoria University in 2024! I have thoroughly enjoyed my teaching during placement work over the past few years and am very eager to use my newfound skills at KPS! Outside of school I play a variety of sports including netball, footy and cricket. I also enjoy listening to music and trying my hand at the ukulele here and there! I also have a little dachshund named Archie!

Generalist Classroom Teacher Jess Else

Hello, my name is Jess Else and I am very excited to be joining the Karwan Primary School community. I am currently completing my Masters of Primary Teaching at Melbourne University and feel very privileged to be starting my teaching journey in our brand-new school. I am passionate about creating an environment where each student is supported to grow and thrive as learners and individuals in a way that best suits their needs. In my spare time I enjoy reading, listening to music and spending time with my family and friends.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Christina Grasso

Hello, my name is Christina, and I’m excited to be joining the Karwan Primary school community. I am very passionate about watching children learn and grow in their schooling years and have a strong background in early childhood education.  I can’t wait to watch the future generations thrive in their educational journey and work alongside my colleagues and the wonderful Tarneit community. In my spare time I enjoy exploring as many new series as I can, and new innovative ways to enjoy coffee.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Ayda Haouchar

Hi, I’m Ayda Haouchar (the kids call me Mrs H) and I am delighted to be part of the Karwan Primary School community! I have previously taught at Truganina P-9 College for four years. This year is my fifth-year teaching and I absolutely love it. I am passionate about supporting students in their journey of learning and growth. I have four beautiful children, a wonderful husband and the most beautiful grandson. I am also the owner of a grumpy cat, whom I adore and five chickens. I enjoy travelling with my husband, reading and going for long walks. My favourite food is Thai and I speak two languages – English and Arabic. I am so happy to be teaching at Karwan Primary and to foster new relationships with the students, staff and the wider community. I look forward to meeting all the families and getting to know the students even more.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Madeline Hodgson

My name is Madeline Hodgson, I am excited to be a part of the Karwan Primary School community in 2024. I have previously taught in the Tarneit area where I have enjoyed working with diverse cultures and communities. I am passionate about helping students learn, grow, and achieve their best. Outside of teaching, I enjoy going to the beach, hiking and I am trying to grow a vegetable garden. I am looking forward to welcoming all the students and families to the Karwan community.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Ryan Hudson

Hi, my name is Ryan Hudson, and I am very excited to be a part of the Karwan Primary School community. I am passionate about developing inclusive and supportive learning environments where children can grow and thrive. In my spare time, I like to swim, travel, visit cafes and spend time with family. I can’t wait to meet and get to know you all.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Martina Le

My name is Martina Le, and I am stoked to be joining Karwan Primary School in 2024. I am in my second year of teaching and am grateful for this opportunity to be a part of a thriving, new school. I cannot wait to create and build a supportive and engaging environment where all students can grow

to become the best versions of themselves. When I am not at school, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. I also enjoy cooking, Pilates, and playing Switch games.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Leah Mackie

Hi, my name is Leah and I feel so happy to have joined the Karwan Community. I have 6 years of teaching experience and have taught at schools in Melton and Tarneit in a range of different grades. I am excited to learn and grow with my students, staff and families. When I am not at work I like to read, listen to music, watch movies and spend time with family, friends and pets.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Christine Marriott

Hi, I’m Christine Marriott and I am delighted to be joining Karwan Primary School in 2024! Over the last six years I have been a French teacher at Tarneit P-9 College and have enjoyed leading my team and creating many fun lessons to engage in language learning for a diverse range of students. You won’t be surprised to hear I love travelling and learning languages, but I also enjoy playing tennis, going to exhibitions and shows, getting arty and crafty, seeing live music, going on nature walks with friends and hanging out with my family and pets. I’m really looking forward to having my own class, getting to know you all and watching you learn and grow!

Generalist Classroom Teacher Dhillaira Mandiringana

Hello, my name is Dhillaira Mandiringana. I am excited to have been appointed a teacher at Karwan Primary School. I’ve had the privilege to teach in the Northern Territory as well as in South Africa, working across different year levels ranging from preschool to Year 7. My ideal classroom is one that fosters collaborative learning, as well as one that celebrates all learners’ abilities and achievements. In my spare time, you’ll find me exploring new places, reading books, and practising some sketching or painting. I’m looking forward to getting to know you all!

Generalist Classroom Teacher Melissa Masutti

I am passionate about creating an inclusive, positive, and supportive student-centred environment, where everyone can socially, emotionally, and academically excel. My goal is to support the Karwan community through heart, connection, and empowering others to reach their potential and follow their dreams. Before I was a Classroom Teacher, I worked in Marketing and Communications for 10 years in Melbourne and London. In my spare time, I enjoy spending quality time with my partner, family, friends and pet greyhound, reading, being outside in nature, and volunteering which has been part of my life since 2013. I have also travelled to 30 countries (and counting!) and love exploring and learning about new places and cultures.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Tanika Oles

Hi, my name is Tanika Oles and I am excited to start a new journey with the team at Karwan Primary School. I have had the pleasure of working with children at different stages over the last 16 years including being an educator in childcare, a teacher in sessional kindergartens and in primary schools. My dream was to work with children to make a difference which is what I will do by providing a safe and nurturing environment where each child can learn and flourish to their full potential. In my spare time, I love spending time with my husband, my kids, extended family, and friends as well as helping the community through voluntary work. I look forward to building a rapport with my students and families through their primary school journey.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Kelly Peterson

Hi, my name is Kelly Peterson and I am very excited to be a founding staff member at Karwan Primary School. I started my teaching journey in 2005 at Parkwood Green Primary School and worked in roles as a Classroom Teacher and Leading Teacher for 8 years. I also spent the next few years working at a number of different schools in the Western Suburbs as a Casual Relief Teacher. After a break from my teaching career, I am thrilled to be returning to the classroom and to share my passion for learning with our amazing new school community. In my spare time I enjoy going to the gym, watching AFL (Go Bombers), walking my dog Rex, having a coffee with friends and most importantly spending time with my family in particular my nieces and nephews. I am excited to welcome students and families into the school and look forward to meeting you all and continuing our journey together.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Rini Roy

I am super excited to be a part of the Karwan Primary School community. I have been a Classroom Teacher for 5 years at Truganina P-9 College. I’m passionate about helping students learn, grow and achieve their best. Outside of teaching, I enjoy going to the gym, hiking, travelling and playing badminton. I’m stoked to be a part of the opening of a brand new school and I look forward to welcoming all students and families at the start of the new school year.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Clarissa Wilson

I am so excited to join the Karwan Primary School community in its second year as a classroom teacher. My teaching career began five years ago at Seaholme Primary School. With a passion for teaching and a dedication to fostering inclusive learning environments, I can’t wait to jump in and contribute to the growth and success of our students. Outside of the classroom, I love going on brunch dates with friends, watching the footy (Go Bombers!) and creating precious memories with my family. I look forward to learning and growing with the Karwan community..

Generalist Classroom Teacher Scott Wilson

My name is Scott Wilson, and I’m excited to be joining the Karwan Primary School community in 2023. I have worked at Tarneit P-9 College for the past 2 and half years, where I have enjoyed working with such a diverse community. I am passionate about creating an engaging and supportive environment that allows all students the best opportunity to develop and grow as both learners and people. In my personal time, I love watching sports, in particular football and soccer, as well as spending quality time with friends and family over a nice meal.

Generalist Classroom Teacher Charlene Yeung

Hello! My name is Charlene Yeung, and I am very excited to be part of the Karwan Primary School community. I am a graduate teacher from Monash University and I am passionate about creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment where all students are welcomed and supported in their learning journey. Outside of teaching, I enjoy cooking, reading, traveling, and weight training. A fun fact about me is that I can speak 3 languages – English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. I look forward to meeting you all and I believe that we are going to have an awesome school!

Science Specialist Robbie Cairns

I am looking forward to an exciting new teaching adventure at Karwan Primary School. I have loved teaching STEM at Fitzroy Primary School for the last year and a half and prior to that enjoyed teaching Environmental Science and Science at Point Cook College P-9 for 11 years. I am passionate about connecting students to the wonders of science and their natural local environments. Outside of school, I enjoy camping and kayaking with my family, bike riding, swimming, birdwatching, and playing my clarinet.

Performing Arts & Physical Education Specialist Chantelle De Girolamo

My name is Chantelle De Girolamo and I am overjoyed to be a part of the team at Karwan Primary School team. I will be one of the Physical Education and Performing Arts teachers. For the past two years I have been teaching at Featherbrook P-9 College as a PE teacher and I am thrilled to continue growing as a teacher. When I am not at work, I am running around with my puppy and playing with my kitten. I love spending time with my family and friends, going to the beach and watching the mighty Hawks play footy. I am so excited to meet you all next year and continue to see our school community grow.

Performing Arts Specialist Monica Simmons

Hey there Karwan Primary School! I’m your Performing Arts Specialist. If you are not sure what Performing Arts is, here is a little song to help you know what you’ll do in the classroom:

“Let’s give Performing Arts a chance,

Drama, music, singing and dance.”

I have been a Performing Art Specialist for 3 years, and before that, I was a grade 1/2 Generalist teacher for 3 years. I can’t wait to build your knowledge on the many different types of performance art, for example, I perform on an apparatus called aerial silk. It’s a circus-based performance art where you perform tricks on two long strands of material that hang from the ceiling. I can’t wait to have fun discovering your favourite performance art together.

Visual Arts Specialist Adrianna Kassavetis

My name is Adrianna and I’m so excited to be joining the Karwan Primary School community as the Visual Arts teacher! I have been teaching for 5 years in the Northern Suburbs at two schools, where I led Student Voice and Agency, as well as Inquiry. Before I became a teacher, I was a Visual Merchandiser. I cannot wait to share my passion for students to be critical and creative thinkers with agency for their learning. When I’m not at school, I enjoy going to Pilates and having dinner parties with friends. I am obsessed with my fur baby Daisy and enjoy taking her on walks along the beach. I’m looking forward to meeting you all and getting creative in the art room!

Physical Education, Science, & Visual Arts Specialist Geethu Menon

Hi, my name is Geethu Menon and I’m thrilled to be a part of the Karwan Primary School. I am a graduate teacher from Victoria University. I am passionate about creating an experiential learning environment for our students. Outside of school, I like gardening, cooking and going to the gym. On weekends, I enjoy spending time with my son playing board games. I am looking forward to working with my colleagues, students and their families.

Tutor Alice Maguire

Hi, my name is Alice Maguire. As a mum of two wonderful children and two boisterous dogs, I bring compassion, enthusiasm, and dedication to the Karwan community. Outside of the classroom, I love holidaying in Echuca, indulging in water sports, relaxing by the river, and hitting the gym before school. I look forward to getting to know every student and building lasting relationships.

Integration Aide Daniela Abrego

Hello! My name is Daniela Abrego and I am very excited for my new journey here at Karwan Primary School. I have just graduated with a bachelor of psychological science and can’t wait to showcase some of my skills at work. As an integration aide, I am a passionate and a dedicated individual that aims to encourage and promote effective learning amongst the students that I work with. My main goal at Karwan will always be to make a positive impact towards any student I interact with. In my free time, I enjoy reading, spending time with my family and my dog, as well as hanging out with my friends at music events or a nice dinner.

Integration Aide Zeenat Ajani

With over 15 years of dedicated experience in the Children’s Services industry, I am thrilled to embark on a new chapter in my professional journey by transitioning to the realm of schools. My unwavering passion for children and their holistic development, coupled with a deep commitment to fostering a safe and conducive learning environment, has been the cornerstone of my career. I am enthusiastic about contributing to the core values of this school and playing a pivotal role in the continued growth and flourishing education of the children I work with. This transition marks not just a change in my professional path but a continuation of my commitment to nurturing young minds and shaping the future generation.

Integration Aide Shaveta Bhanot

Hi, my name is Shaveta Bhanot and I am grateful to be a part of the wonderful team here at Karwan Public school. I have been working as education support/integration aide for the last two years and find this job very satisfying and rewarding. I work in collaboration with classroom teachers to assist students to learn, develop and thrive at school. I have always enjoyed working with children and like to build a good relation and connection with them, so they are always comfortable and find me easy to approach. While not at work, I love to travel with family and friends, to discover and explore new places around Victoria.

Integration Aide Prudence Fleming

Hi, my name is Prudence Fleming and I am so happy to be a part of the Karwan Primary School team having recently gained my Certificate III in Education Support. I love working alongside the classroom teachers to help students achieve their learning goals in a warm, positive and encouraging environment. I am so excited to build upon their skills and consolidate their achievements. I have found working with students both rewarding and fulfilling. In my spare time, I love to participate in my children’s busy sporting activities, encouraging and supporting their endeavours. We love family holidays together most of all, especially a road trip! I also like to read, cook, swim and catching up with friends.

Integration Aide Sarah Hetherton

I am honoured to be part of the Karwan community and working with the Integration Team, collaborating with the teachers to ensure all students reach their potential in all aspects of learning and growth. While I have been a stay-at-home mum with my 2 children, I volunteered my time with various services including the The Werribee Zoo. I have Aboriginal heritage within my family, and we enjoy exploring and learning all that we can about our culture. I have always had a love for animals and nature which led me to complete a Nature Based Therapy course. Before I had my eldest child, I worked in Early Childhood Education for 12 years in various centres from the CBD to Tarneit. My passions are spending time with my family, connecting to country, swimming and visiting markets on the weekends.

Integration Aide Akot Mashot

Hi, my name is Akut Mashot. I’m so happy to be a part of the incredible community at Karwan Primary School. Their values resonate with me, and I am eager to contribute as an integration aide. As an integration aide, I look forward to collaborating closely with the dedicated teachers here. My goal is to support Karwan students to be the best learners and achievers they can be, and I strive to create a supportive environment where students can thrive. When I’m not at school, I’m spending time with friends and family, exploring new places.

Integration Aide Stephanie Messatesta

Hi, my name is Stephanie Mezzatesta and I am delighted to be part of the team at Karwan Primary School. I have been an Integration Aide for the past 5 years at Kororoit Creek Primary School. As an Integration Aide, I work closely and collaborate with teachers to ensure students reach their academic and personal goals. In my spare time, I love spending time with my husband, family and friends and going out for a nice meal. I look forward to meeting you all soon and getting to know the students of KPS.

Integration Aide Colleen Smith

Hi, my name is Colleen Smith and I am grateful to be part of the team at Karwan Primary School. I have been an Integration Aide for the past 3 years at Tarneit P-9. As an Integration Aide, I work closely with teachers to ensure students reach their learning and personal goals. Outside of work, I love spending time reading and taking my dogs to the beach. I look forward to meeting you all soon and getting to know the students of KPS.

Integration Aide Nici Thornton

I am excited to be a part of the team at Karwan Primary School. I am an experienced integration aide and speech therapist assistant. I have a genuine passion for supporting children in all aspects of their school life and watching the students grow and achieve their goals is very rewarding. In my spare time I love to hang out with my family, two dogs, cook, read and travel. I have a passion for health and wellbeing and you will often see me participating in long distance walking events.

Business Manager Angie Gergis

My name is Angie Gergis and I will be the Business Manager at Karwan Primary School. I am so excited to be part of such a diverse and cultural community. I have worked within the Department of Education for nearly 4 years now and am looking forward to continuing my career at KPS. My favourite meal of the day is brunch, especially with friends, I also love a little bit of reality TV. Can’t wait to meet you all!

Office Administration Assistant Melissa Dumesny

Hi, my name is Melissa Dumesny and I am very excited to be joining the Karwan team. I have been in school office admin and first aid for nearly 5 years. In my spare time I enjoy playing cricket, reading and also watching football and netball with my 2 children. I am looking forward to getting to know the school community.

Office Administration Assistant Fin I

My name is Fin, and you’ll likely see me on a Friday in the front office! I am delighted to be a part of Karwan Primary School and serve the local community of Tarneit, which I have personally been a part of for the last 8 years. Although the Education sector is new to me, I have a strong background in Admin/Retail, and I am thrilled to be part of this journey with Karwan Primary School, our students, and their families. On a personal note, I am a super creative person, and I love to travel the globe to experience other cultures! I look forward to seeing you in the office and assisting you with your enquiries.

Facilities Manager Alek Gesovski

Hi, my name is Alek Gesovski and I am a Facilities Manager at Karwan Primary School. I have been running my own painting business for the last 20 years and also in the last 3 years I also have been doing maintenance. I am very excited to come on board for the next chapter of my career. When I am not working I love spending time with my family and also I am a supporter of AFL (Go Bombers), EPL (The Toffees) and cricket. Can’t wait until I meet you all.

School Name

Karwan Primary School was chosen as the new school name following community consultation. ‘Karwan’ (pronounced kar-wan) is a Bunurong word referring to the nankeen kestrel. We used Riverdale East Primary School as an interim name while the school was being built and established. In August, the name of Riverdale East Primary School (interim name) was announced as Tarneit Primary School. Throughout the 2023 school naming process, the department consulted with local traditional owner groups to identify indigenous names that better reflected the local area and surroundings. The name ‘Karwan’ ensures the school has a clear and distinct identity from the other schools in Tarneit and acknowledges the importance of Aboriginal histories and cultures.

Facilities

When the school opens in Term 1, 2023, it will include:

  • an administration building with a library, staff offices and amenities,
  • 2 learning neighbourhood buildings with general-purpose classrooms, and flexible and collaborative teaching spaces,
  • a specialist learning neighbourhood for subjects such as food technology and science,
  • a community hub with a competition-grade gymnasium, canteen, music and drama space,
  • 2 outdoor hardcourts,
  • a sports field, and
  • a bike shed.

Documents & Policies

Child safety and wellbeing at Karwan Primary School: information for families and the school community

Karwan Primary School is committed to providing a child safe and child friendly environment, where students are safe and feel safe.

Our child safety and wellbeing policies outline the measures and strategies we have in place to support, promote and maintain the safety and wellbeing of our students:

 

Child Safety And Wellbeing Policy

Child Safety Code Of Conduct

Child Safety Responding And Reporting Obligations Policy And Procedures

Complaints Policy

Student Wellbeing And Engagement Policy

Bullying Prevention Policy

Volunteers Policy

Visitors Policy

Digital Learning (Internet, Social Media And Digital Devices) Policy

 

As valuable partners in promoting and maintaining child safety and wellbeing at Karwan Primary School we welcome and encourage your feedback.

If you have any suggestions, comments or questions in relation to our child safe policies and practices, please contact the school at Karwan.PS@education.vic.gov.au.