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.
Welcome from our principal
We are a very proud and dynamic secondary school in Newcastle. We have a strong tradition of academic excellence and student achievement across all domains of Highly Gifted and Performance Education and we have a rich and diverse curriculum that caters for all learners.
We support a community who values education and whose collective voice drives our strategic direction and priorities. It is a privilege as the lead learner, to provide an engaging educational environment with this support.
However, the most important aspect of our school is our students. The student culture of our school is unsurpassed in our region,
and this is why we are such a sort after setting with high numbers of applicants who apply to enrol as out of zone families, and we also have a high proportion of students who move from the private system and into Kotara High School. Again, welcome to Kotara High School. I look forward to getting to know you, and meeting your families' educational needs and priorities.
Mark Snedden, Principal of Kotara High School
Our school leaders
Our school leaders, including our principal, head teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.
- Principal: Mr Mark Snedden
- Deputy Principal - Year 7, Year 10 and Inclusion & support: Mr Daniel Garner
- Deputy Principal - Year 8 & Year 11: Mr Chris McCord
- Deputy Principal (Rel) - Year 9 & Year 12: Ms Nicole Bonar
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.
Head Teachers
- ALPACA: Mr Jason Foy
- English: Ms Rosanne Abbott
- HSIE: Ms Suzi Evans
- Mathematics: Ms Sarah Bailey
- PD/H/PE: Mr Peter Lister
- Science: Mr Bryce Blackmore (Rel)
- TAS: Ms Rebecca Murphy
- Inclusion & Support: Ms Kristi Devetak
- Teaching & Learning: Ms Allana Harding
- Secondary Studies: Mr Matthew Edwards
Year Advisers
- Year 7: Mr Justin Paterson
- Year 8: Mr Reece Fellas
- Year 9: Ms Renee Scarpinato
- Year 10: Ms Karen Johnson
- Year 11: Ms Alexandra Swarmy
- Year 12: Ms Jennifer Goldstein
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.
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.
- School Counsellor: Ms Dottie Naszaka
- School Counsellor: Mr Paul Agnew
- Head teacher Wellbeing: Ms Kerry Spicer-Worth
- Head Teacher Wellbeing: Ms Yolandi Shields
- Student Support Officer: Ms Samantha Lawler
- School Learning Support Officers
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.
- Finance Manager: Ms Mandy Wicks
- School Administration Manager: Ms Cathy O'Malley
- School Administration Officers
Have a question for our principal or teachers?
Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.
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.