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.

Principal’s Welcome

Welcome to Summer Hill Public School, a school with a proud history and a strong sense of community, located in the heart of Sydney’s inner west.

Summer Hill Public School stands on the lands of the Wangal people of the Eora Nation. We honour the enduring connection Aboriginal people have to this Country, its stories and its learning, and recognise that this place has always been a place of education.

For generations, Summer Hill Public School has been a place where children from a wide range of cultural, linguistic and family backgrounds have come together to learn, grow and belong. Today, our school continues this tradition as a thriving community of around 650 students, supported by dedicated staff and engaged families who share a commitment to inclusion, respect and high expectations.

At Summer Hill Public School, learning is purposeful, engaging and responsive. Our teachers work collaboratively to deliver high-quality teaching that recognises each child’s strengths, interests and learning needs. Through thoughtful differentiation, rich learning experiences and a focus on student voice, we support students to develop confidence, curiosity and a genuine love of learning.

We are proud of the breadth of opportunities available to our students. Alongside strong academic foundations, including our Opportunity Classes in Years 5 and 6, students are encouraged to explore their interests through a wide range of enrichment programs including music, drama, debating, chess and sport. These experiences help shape well-rounded, resilient learners who are prepared for future challenges.

As an inner-west school, we value connection between students, families, staff and our local community. Our active and supportive P&C, along with the many partnerships we share beyond the school gates, plays an important role in fostering the warm, welcoming atmosphere for which Summer Hill Public School is known.

Our vision is to create a learning environment where every child feels known, valued and inspired.  A place where students are supported to set meaningful goals, take pride in their achievements and grow into thoughtful, responsible citizens.

I warmly invite you to be part of the Summer Hill Public School community.

Warm regards,

Fiona Dixon
Principal
Summer Hill Public School

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.

Role (50%)
Staff (50%)
Vanessa Freiinger
Learning and Support Teacher (LAST)
Vera Valente-Spina
English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)
Jacqueline Biffin
Music
Constantine Stamocostas
Drama
Melanie Oxley
High Potential and Gifted Education Specialist (HPGE)

Our school leaders

Our school leaders, including our principal, guide teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.

Role (50%)
Staff (50%)
Director
Zena Dabaja
Principal
Fiona Dixon
Deputy Principal
Jane Williams
Assistant Principal Early Stage 1
Katherine Butler
Assistant Principal Stage 1

Nikki Logan (Monday-Wednesday)

Melissa Stafford (Thursday-Friday)

Assistant Principal Stage 2

Vanessa Freiinger (Monday-Tuesday)

Melanie Wilkinson (Wednesday)

Assistant Principal Stage 3
Melanie Oxley (Monday-Wednesday)
Assistant Principal Curriculum & Instruction
Jessica Hughes

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.

Role (50%)
Staff (50%)
Kindergarten

Katherine Butler

Ingrid Johnson

Effie Lekkas

Fotini Loukis

Vanessa White

Year 1

Fiona Donnelly

Kristina Keppars

Juliana Ma

Alyssa Matthews

Melissa Stafford

Vera Valente

Year 2

Georgia Bone

Emily Della Marta

Jessica Hughes

Nikki Logan

Corinna Sweetman

Year 3

Emily Della Marta

Teresa Duggan

Cherie Flusk

Charles Horton

Melanie Wilkinson

Year 4

Annissa Chan

Anneliese Dennis

Charles Horton

Stephanie Hughes

Harry O'Connor

Year 5

Chloe Barber-Hancock

Lachlan Moss

Elena Schumacher

Emily Stathis

Adam Williams

Year 6

Melanie Oxley

Lachlan Moss

Elena Schumacher

Emily Stathis

Adam Williams

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.

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.

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

Additional learning support

Find out how we support students with disability or additional learning needs.

Stories and highlights

Hear about stories, wins and proud moments from our staff and students.