Our Principal and Team
At our school, we are dedicated to fostering each student's learning, wellbeing, and sense of belonging. together, we strive to create a safe, inclusive and respectful environment where every child is empowered to succeed.
Welcome from our Principal
“A very warm welcome to the students, parents and carers of Orara High School. We look forward to playing our part in ensuring that every student genuinely feels like they are a valued member of our school community.
Orara is a school of high expectations. Students and their families should expect great things from our staff just as our staff expect great things from each student.
As a staff we look forward to collaborating closely with parents and carers so as to provide the best possible learning pathway for every student.
Please look forward to the many opportunities we provide for you all to feel connected to our school and our staff.
It is together that we will continue to create a safe, caring, and challenging learning environment for everyone.
I invite you to explore our website to discover what makes our school special. We look forward to welcoming you into our community.”
Laura McRae,
Principal
Our school leaders
At Orara High School, our leadership team, including the Principal, Deputy Principals, Year Advisors, and Head Teachers for each faculty, work collaboratively to guide and support both teachers and students. Together, they foster a school culture that empowers every student to grow, succeed, and thrive.
Laura McRae
Principal
Angela Heath
Deputy Principal Year 7, 9, 11
Ellie Patterson
Deputy Principal Year 8, 10, 12
Rachael Webb
Deputy Principal Support & Inclusion
Our Executive 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.
- Ebony Proctor, HSIE & LOTE
- Tiarni Naylor, Wellbeing
- Holly Wedd, Mathematics
- Claire O'Halloran, Teaching and Learning
- Peter Denham, PDHPE
- Warwick Hatfield, Administration
- Dallas Smith, Science
- Kate Twigg, English
- Elise Prosser, CAPA
- Lacey Ogilvie, TAS
- Rachel Charnock, Inclusive Education Unit
- Nicole Laing, EAL/D
Year advisors
Our Year Advisors play a key role in supporting students throughout their school journey, offering guidance, encouragement, and care to help them succeed both in and out of the classroom.
- Year 7 Advisors, Alicia Spinelli & Sam McRae
- Year 8 Advisor, Rachel Charnock
- Year 9 Advisors, Tom Adams &
- Year 10 Advisor, Iggy Gasengayire
- Year 11 Year Advisors, Donna Gaston & Emma Barnes
- Year 12 Year Advisors, Dean Press & Lacey Ogilvie
Support staff
At Orara High, our support staff are an essential part of our school community. From running programs like Clontarf and NASCAR, to assisting on the farm, keeping our grounds safe and welcoming, and managing the day-to-day operations of the school, they bring care, expertise, and commitment that help every student thrive.
- Karly Morris, Aboriginal Education Officer
- Warwick Jones, Clontarf Academy
- Heather Duncan, NASCA
- Christopher Howard, General Assistant
- Allan Watson, Farm Assistant
- Jo Carter, Canteen
- Jon Buzza, Student Support Officer
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.
- Tiarni Naylor, Head Teacher Wellbeing
- Jon Buzza, Student Support Officer
- Cameron Schenk, Youth Worker
- Katie Percival, Youth Worker
- Alexandra Kelsall, Counsellor
- Fiona Spooner, Counsellor
- Christie Henderson, Counsellor
- Kylie Vesperman, Senior Psychologist
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.
- Kim Peveril-Guest, Business Manager
- Naomi Lakeman, School Administrative Manager
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. They may hold advanced accreditation. This ensuring high-quality teaching for your child.
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.