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
Welcome to The Hospital School at Westmead, and thank you for visiting our website. I hope you enjoy learning about our school and gain a true sense of our core values, passion, and commitment to providing the very best education and care for our students.
I am honoured to serve as the Principal of such a unique and special school, leading an exceptional team of staff who work tirelessly to ensure the best outcomes for every student in our care.
The Hospital School at Westmead provides a high-quality education within a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for students who are receiving medical treatment at Westmead Hospital. Although our school comprises several different provisions, including hospital-based and outreach programs, we work closely together and share the same core beliefs and values. Teamwork is a strong feature across the school, and we maintain excellent partnerships with hospital staff and other professionals who support us in delivering holistic care and education tailored to each student’s needs.
We have developed strong partnerships locally, across NSW, and nationally as we continually seek to improve our practice and support the learning and wellbeing of our students. Our vision is ambitious: to remain an outstanding, innovative, and outward-looking school dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of our students and their families.
We hope you find all the information you need on our website. If you require any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the school to speak with a member of our team or to arrange a visit.
Mercedes Wilkinson, Principal of The Childrens Hospital School
Our classroom 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.
-
Primary Staff:
- Dorothy Tan, Early Childhood Teacher
- Adam Rodriguez, K-2 Teacher
- Kaela Eady, 3-6 Teacher
- Sarah Hickey, 3-6 Teacher
- Jane Patterson, SLSO
- Peter McShane, SLSO
- Alison Wivell, SLSO
- Kavitha Karottepurackal Gopi, SLSO
Secondary Staff:
- Francesca Fuccilli, Teacher
- Anjum Newman, Teacher
- Joy Sanyal-Gomes, Teacher
- Leah Troldahl, Teacher
- Swetha Amaresh, Health SLSO
- Faye Kekatos, Health SLSO
- Beatrice Neylan, SLSO
Ward Staff:
- Megan Vella, Teacher
- Lynn Mackenzie, Teacher
- Georgia Patching, Teacher
- Colin Ross, Teacher
Contact our school to learn about our teaching team
Administrative staff and School Counsellor Support
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.
- Karyn Moran, School Administration Manager (SAM)
- Rachel Young, School Administrative Officer (SAO)
- Alanna Casey, Community Liaison Officer (CLO)
- Kathryn Beck, School Counsellor
- Sarah Cooper, Senior Psychologist
Contact our school to learn about our administrative and operations staff
Our 2025 Staff
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.
Teacher–family partnerships
Our teachers build trust through clear communication. Our families know that their child has support and is ready to learn.
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.