Meet our Teachers

Great teachers are more important than great facilities. Please click on the photos below for a brief introduction from each teacher.

Brendan Corr

Principal

Originally a Secondary Science Teacher, Brendan is a graduate of UTS, Deakin and Regent College, Canada. While Deputy Principal at Pacific Hills for 12 years, Brendan also led the NSW Christian Schools Australia registration system. Brendan’s faith is grounded in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a deep knowledge of God’s Word. Married for over 30 years, Brendan and Kim have 4 adult children. On the weekends, Brendan enjoys cycling (but he enjoys coffee with his mates afterwards slightly more).

Paulle Kwok

Assistant Principal People & Culture

Paulle plays an important role in shaping the spiritual and emotional culture of the school as Head of Student Services. She has been actively involved in education since the late 1970s. The hallmark of her role is her genuine love and care for students and the members of the school community. Originally from Sydney, Paulle, and her late husband Frank, have five adult children. On weekends, Paulle enjoys spending time with her growing tribe of grandchildren.

Ross Howard

Assistant Principal Campus Operations

Ross is originally from country NSW before completing a Bachelor of Education at Newcastle University. He has undertaken many roles in schools, including teaching Design & Technology, Head of Department, Head of Middle School and Deputy Principal. He has been teaching for over 30 years with his current responsibility being around the development of campus facilities and technology. Ross is married to Marivic and together they have eight adult children. Away from school, Ross enjoys spending time with his family and restoring classic cars.

Luke Reifler

Head of Distance Education

Luke has been a Primary School teacher in public and private schools for over 20 years and was Kids Pastor at his church for several years. He has three children with Roslyna, who he met on a mission trip. Luke has a Bachelor of Education (Primary), Master of Christian Studies (Pastoral Leadership) building on a unique childhood being raised at his family’s ministry centre and completed Primary school via distance education. He enjoys photography and is passionate about faith, identity and community.

Melanie Woods

Head of Primary

Melanie, as a little girl, always wanted to be a teacher and still says that she loves all things teaching. She has been fortunate enough to teach in different states and one of Melanie's desires as she teaches, is to instill in her students a love of learning. Melanie does remind her class that it's not what you want to be that's important but do you want to be. Melanie, her husband and four grown-up kids enjoy music, musicals and performing in them.

Su Temlett

Head of Teaching and Learning

Su has been teaching English for over 20 years and loves the uniqueness of teaching, each day bringing variety and purpose. Su loves creating meaningful relationships with students; aiming to grow in them a love for Jesus. Su’s most recent study was a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management. Su emigrated to Australia in 2007 with her husband and is delighted to have a young son. At weekends, she will often be at the ocean or out in the countryside. She enjoys reading, theatre, swimming, walking the dog, worshiping and being with loved ones.

Steve Grice

Head of Educational Operations

Steve has a Bachelor of Science, Masters of Education and Masters of Divinity and has been involved in Secondary Education for over 20 years. He is a Mathematics teacher but has spend the last 10 years serving in various leadership roles. Steve has been at ACC since 2021 and has greatly enjoyed serving as a member of this community. He is passionate about working with both staff and students and seeing them develop as people created in God's image. In his spare time Steve is a keen triathlete and cyclist who competes in numerous events each year.

Anji Smith

Science Faculty Leader

Anji came to teaching via working in research and living overseas. She is passionate about Science and exploring evidence! Anji particularly loves teaching Biology to Year 11 and 12, and learning more about the the human body and its marvellous systems. She and her husband are currently renovating an old house and enjoying the process, most of the time! They love getting together with their two adult children, their partners, and the family dog collection. Life is very full!

Daniel McGowan

HSIE Faculty Leader

Daniel completed his tertiary education at Macquarie University in 2013. He enjoys most sports, particularly surfing and diving, reading a great novel, eating good food all hopefully at the beach on a hot summer’s day. Daniel attends and serves at St Paul's Castle Hill, leading a young adults bible study. He enjoys witnessing students grow in Christ and personally encounter God, building relationships with the students and being part of the process of character development.

Debbie Truman

TAS Faculty Leader

Debbie has been with Australian Christian College since its early days. She has a BA in Arts in Technology, Teaching (Secondary) and a Mast. Education in Pastoral Care Leadership. Debbie has been married for 33 years with 4 children and 4 grandchildren. Her passion is teaching students skills for life in the areas of Food and Textiles. In her spare time, she loves spending time with family, reading missionary biographies, and travelling, especially mission trips.

Ferry Tanoto

Maths Faculty Leader

Ferry is a passionate teacher. He completed a Bachelor of Computer Science but found his calling in education. His heart was longing to serve with a greater capacity which led him to study and acquire a Masters degree in Secondary Education. Ferry enjoys working with students who are curious about their potential in Mathematics. He looks forward to encouraging his students through stories of his life with God as well as his professional expertise as an educator.

Matt Woods

CAPA Faculty Leader

Matt graduated from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music in 1997 with a degree in Music Education. Since then he has been a Pastor & Creative Ministry Director, a member of the Australian Defence Force and of course a teacher, who is passionate about Christian Education. Matt & his wife Sal attend Hillsong Church with their 2 teenage daughters. Matt loves spending time with his family and their two giant puppies, Max & Finn.

Jonathan Brayshaw

Stage 5 Coordinator

Jonathan completed a Bachelor of Business at the University of Technology, Sydney. After initially working in marketing, Jonathan had a desire to engage with young people, completing his Bachelor of Education (Secondary) in 2013. After teaching at Pacific Hills for 5 years, Jonathan spent the past two years teaching in Canada, where he also learnt to snowboard! He is passionate about helping students discover their God-given gifts and grow in their confidence and identity. He enjoys sports, traveling, good food and coffee.

Kellie Mitton

Stage 2 Coordinator

Kellie completed her Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) in 2017. Before studying teaching, she was the women’s minister at Life Anglican Church Quakers Hill. Kellie feels privileged to be able to share her love for Jesus every day with her students. Kellie is a busy mum of 4 children, of which two who have already finished school. She attends Life Anglican Church, running a women’s Life Group on a weekly basis. In her spare time Kellie loves to read, travel, and spend time with family and friends.

Lara Dikha

Stage 1 Coordinator

Lara completed her teaching qualifications through Macquarie University and has engaged in further Biblical Studies at Morling College. She has spent many years teaching in both public and independent schools as well as providing training for teachers in Madagascar. Lara is deeply passionate about seeing all students everywhere have the opportunity to learn about Jesus, encounter his love and enjoy the precious gift of education. She attends Riverstone Baptist Church and enjoys being a part of the worship team there.

Lesley-Ann Hardy

10-12 Academic Coordinator

Lesley-Ann completed her Bachelor of Education (Physical & Health Education) in 2007. She enjoys a variety of sports including netball, athletics, touch footy and soccer. Lesley-Ann teaches years 7 to 12 PDHPE, CAFS and Sport at ACC Marsden Park. Lesley-Ann is passionate about equipping her students with the skills needed to make better informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. Other than sport, Lesley-Ann loves spending time with her husband and two children.

Shirley Lie

Early Stage 1 Coordinator

Shirley has been teaching infants for over 20 years in various early childhood settings. She enjoys teaching Kindergarten, preparing lessons and encouraging children to grow in their self-confidence through opportunities that foster creativity and critical thinking. Shirley is a keen traveller, enthusiastic about exploring different cultures, food and going on road trips. She feels blessed by the opportunities given to her, in sharing her life journey of faith to help others through their difficulties, and expressing her love for Jesus through worship.

Tiarne Tranter

Sports Coordinator

Tiarne completed her Bachelor of Human Movement and Bachelor of Secondary Education in PDHPE at UTS. She has taught PDHPE at the College since 2014. Tiarne attends St Pauls Castle Hill where she serves on the worship team and young adults ministry. On the weekends, you will find her playing AFL for Western Magic or embracing her inner chef in cooking a meal for her husband. Tiarne's role at ACC encompasses her three great passions; worshipping Jesus, playing sport and teaching young people.

Vivian Booker

Primary Ministry Coordinator

Vivian is a Primary Teacher and coordinates different ministries that occur in primary school. She completed her Bachelor of Primary Education at the University of Sydney. Vivian is passionate about sharing the gospel of Jesus with students in her care, equipping them to live faithfully and confidently in our world under God. She values providing opportunities for deep learning through the Creative Arts where all students are valued, heard and personally known. When she is not teaching, Vivian loves to go on road trips, camp at national parks and sing at her local church and at different events with her husband.

Deb Kwok

Primary Teacher

Deb grew up in Upstate New York and completed her Bachelors of Primary Education with Honours while studying in the States. She is happily married with two young children. On the weekends, you will find Deb attending and serving in her church as well as enjoying some of her favourite activities, including spending time with family, enjoying an aerobic workout and going out for a long breakfast. She has a love for working with children and inspiring them to love learning.

Alison Brayshaw

Primary Teacher

Alison has been a Primary teacher since 2016, living and teaching in Vancouver, Canada for two years prior to beginning at ACC in 2022. She enjoys being outdoors, exploring God’s incredible creation with her husband and puppy, Whistler. Alison is passionate about providing the opportunity for all students to feel loved, valued and cherished, utilising each individual’s God-given strengths and abilities to help them grow. On the weekends she enjoys going for a run and having coffee with friends, relaxing with a book, and going to church.

Andrew Wade

Secondary Teacher

Andrew completed his BA DipEd at Macquarie University, majoring in studies of History. He is also currently completing a Masters in Education through Morling College. Over the past two decades, Andrew has taught in a variety of subject areas. Andrew has a passion for students to know Jesus Christ and their life’s purpose through His plan for them. Areas of interest outside of school life for Andrew include jogging, golf and tennis. Andrew is married to Stephanie and together they have three small boys.

Ashleigh Green

Primary Teacher

Ashleigh completed her Bachelor’s degree at the University of New England in 2021. Prior to studying, she spent some years travelling and working in administration. Ashleigh also had the opportunity to work as a nanny in North London and looks forward to returning for a visit someday. She attends Dayspring Church in Castle Hill where she has the privilege of leading worship. In her downtime, Ashleigh loves having game nights with friends, reading novels and riding horses.

Bec Conway

Secondary Teacher

Bec completed her Bachelor of Education (Health and Physical Education) at the University of Sydney. She attends St Paul's Anglican Church Carlingford where she serves as a Youth Group Leader. Bec's passion is sharing the love of Christ with her students as well as seeing them enjoy learning and achieve their individual goals. She loves playing Netball, touch footy, Rugby 7s and Dance. On the weekend you will find her trying out new restaurants and hanging out with her friends.

Bianca Kleinig

Primary Teacher

Bianca completed her Bachelor of Primary Education at Swinburne University of Technology. She has a strong passion for teaching children within their early years and loves to form meaningful relationships with her students and their families. Bianca values providing enriching and authentic learning experiences that immerse her students within a world of creativity, new ways of thinking and problem solving. She aims to foster a love for learning in each student she teaches. In her spare time, you will find Bianca going on fun adventures with her German Shepherd, Duke, spending time with her family or playing soccer.

Billie Thorne

Primary Teacher

Billie completed her Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood (Birth to 12)) at Macquarie University in 2021. She is passionate about teaching Mathematics and the Creative Arts and loves to see her students reach their individual goals. Billie attends Elevation Church Castle Hill where she is involved in the Worship & Creative and Youth Ministries. When she is not teaching, she enjoys cooking, dancing, tending to her plants and spending time with friends on the weekends.

Di Kwok

TAA Coordinator

Di has been teaching at ACC since 2004, and over these years she has loved teaching maths to students in both on-campus and Distance Education. Working with high school students from a wide range of cultures and ability levels has led Di into her current role as a Learning Support Teacher, and she is passionate to help students thrive in their learning. Di enjoys coffee breaks and cooking for her joyful household with ten children.

Emily Peisley

Primary Teacher

Emily has a Bachelor of Theology and Masters of Primary teaching. She has been teaching at ACC since 2017 where she loves kids and sharing the gospel with them. The classroom is full of so many personalities, talents and imaginations, and as the teacher she loves the opportunity to be able to help and guide students to strive to be who God has created them to be. In her spare time, she like to play team sports, go on adventures and do some baking.

Emily Tranter

Secondary Teacher

Emily completed her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education (Secondary) in 2021. She is extremely passionate about the subjects of English and History and desires to see all students succeed in all that God has planned for their lives. Emily attends St Paul’s Castle Hill where she leads in the Youth Ministry, and is involved in worship leading at Sunday services. Emily has done plenty of travel in her time, and loves everything to do with food and cooking. She lives with 5 of her best friends (including her dog).

Emma Ruffin

Secondary Teacher

Emma has completed a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary teaching (English and French) and went on to complete a Masters degree of Special Education. Emma enjoys making the curriculum accessible to all students and giving them opportunities to be challenged in a way that enriches their lives and allows them to see the world through God's lens. Emma is her happiest self when spending time with family and four legged friends, particularly horse riding and walking her dog anywhere in nature that has been untouched by mankind.

Esther Ganta

Secondary Teacher

Esther has her Master’s in Engineering from United States and teaching accreditations from state of Texas in Mathematics. Esther is blessed with three children and a loving husband. Interests include travelling, collecting currencies, souvenir’s, cooking, spending time with my children and being involved in their activities. Some of things on her bucket list involve riding a hot air balloon, travelling across great barrier reef, experiencing a night at a bio luminous beach.

George Aydin

Primary Teacher

George completed his Bachelor of Primary Education Online through Curtin University. He attends St Pauls Castle Hill and over the years has been involved in various ministries, including running a young adults bible study. George enjoys most sports, good food and cooking. He has a love for Brazilian Jiujitsu which he has been training in for many years and where he is often found when away from his lovely wife and two kids.

Grace Kwong

Primary Teacher

Grace completed her Masters of Primary Teaching at the University of Sydney. She grew to love children after working at an after school care centre while she was still completing her Psychology degree. Grace attends Northern District Chinese Christian Church Sydney (NDCCCS) and enjoys going to weekly bible study groups where she gets to dig deep into God’s Word. Grace has a passion for digital art and embroidery and on the weekends she enjoys catching up with friends for coffee.

Jacqueline Donaldson

Secondary Teacher

Jacqueline Donaldson is new in 2022 to the school but has been teaching since 1998. She teaches mainly HSIE and English, and particularly enjoys Studies of Religion and Biblical Studies. Jacqueline has been a Christian since 1972 and has been walking with the Lord ever since. She lives with her son, daughter-in-law and grandson, and attends a Filipino church, where she feels very loved and appreciated and she has the privilege of preaching once a month. In her spare time, Jacqueline loves reading and being involved with the local Historical Society. Her photo is from a trip to Israel.

John Picart

Secondary Teacher

John received his Bachelor of Arts and Graduate Diploma of Education in 1998 and 1999, respectively, from Western Sydney University. Since then, he has run with God’s call on his life: teaching young people English and History from a biblical perspective. His passion lies in seeing the message of the Gospel redeem and transform every area of life. John loves reading novels, poetry, and Christian literature. He enjoys travelling, hiking, playing chess, and spending time with family and friends. He has been part of the leadership team at C3 Ryde for many years now and leads a Connect Group.

Kaylie Neave

Secondary Teacher

Kaylie began her teaching career teaching private music tuition. She completed a Bachelor of Music and a Masters of Education (Secondary) so that she could bring her passion for music education to High School students. In her time outside of school Kaylie enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, playing piano and singing in church. When she gets the chance you can often find her deep beneath the water scuba diving.

Kiah Cavens

Secondary Teacher

Kiah obtained a Bachelor of Arts (English) and a Bachelor of Education at Macquarie University. She loves seeing her students embrace their God-given talents and thrive in the classroom. Kiah feels extremely privileged to be able to minister to students both inside and outside the classroom. She is passionate about fostering critical thinking skills, confidence and excitement for learning in her students. Outside of school, Kiah loves to cook, read and serve at her Church.

Kirsten Northwood

Primary Teacher

Kirsten completed a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth - 12 Years) at Macquarie University. She is grateful to be able to share God's love with her students in all circumstances. Kirsten has three beautiful children who keep her busy and on her toes. She worships at Pitt Town Anglican Church and enjoys helping out at the church cafe. Kirsten enjoys finding a good brunch spot and spending time with friends.

Kristin Turner

Primary Teacher

Having completed music and then primary teaching degrees, Kristin began teaching in 2004. Over the years, she has had four children who are now all school age. She is an active member of the Salvation Army at Rouse Hill and has the honour of leading worship there. Another exciting ministry she is involved in is an inclusive church service, AccessABLE church, that welcomes people of all abilities. In this space, everyone's unique gifts and abilities are celebrated and championed and everyone is recognised as fearfully and wonderfully made by God. She is a musician and adores any time spent singing, conducting, arranging, playing trumpet, ukulele or piano.

Liam Tomalaris

Secondary Teacher

Liam completed a Bachelor of Secondary Education and a Bachelor of Arts at Sydney University where he specialised in History and Drama. Liam loves helping students to grow in their understanding of the world and also their relationship with Jesus. He is passionate about his subject areas and loves to see his students share that same enthusiasm. On weekends he loves to pop into a cafe to catch up with friends or find some quiet time to read God's word.

Luke Turner-Mann

Secondary Teacher

Luke is a mathematics teacher with teaching experience in the United Kingdom and Asia. He is passionate about classical music and studying the bible. His other interests include football, cycling, trekking, language learning, and time spent with family. Luke is blessed to have a beautiful wife Puja, and one son Matthew. They attend Rouse Hill Bible Church. Luke has started a new ACC club for guitar enthusiasts, and welcomes new participants.

Lynette Garth

Secondary Teacher

After studying an Applied Science degree and working in the Food Industry for a time, Lynette decided to become a teacher, investing in the lives of young people. She then obtained a Bachelor of Education at Christian Heritage College and has been teaching Mathematics since 2008. Her passion is to help young people grow and thrive, both in their educational journey and in their relationship with Jesus. She wants to help her students reach their potential, being equipped and ready for whatever purpose God plans for their lives.

Matthew Thomson

Secondary Teacher

Matthew has a Bachelor of Education and has throughly enjoys enjoys working at ACC. He is married to a beautiful wife with two young children that keep him busy. In his spare time he enjoys watching sport and going out for runs. He loves that he gets to help students grow and develop into the people God wants them to be through curriculum and pastoral care. He currently attends Blacktown Anglican Church where he serves in Children's Ministry and plays drums in the church band.

Meghan Flood

Secondary Teacher

Meghan completed her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education (Secondary) at Macquarie University in 2021 where she majored in Ancient History and English. She attends St Paul’s Castle Hill where she serves in both the kids and youth ministries. Meghan is passionate about seeing young people challenge themselves and develop a love of learning as they grow in their knowledge and love of Christ. On the weekends, she enjoys playing and umpiring netball, playing music, reading, and catching up with friends and family.

Miah Perry

Secondary Teacher

Miah completed her Bachelor of Education (Health and Physical education) at the University of Sydney and her second teaching area is Aboriginal Studies. Miah loves that teaching PDHPE allows her to combine both her passions of sport and supporting the wellbeing of students. On the weekends you'll find Miah at the beach, playing with her puppy Billy, camping or watching the mighty panthers (hopefully) win. Miah is keen to see the lives of her students be shaped by God's plan.

Michael Alldis

Primary Teacher

Michael completed his Bachelor of Arts at The University of Sydney and a Graduate Diploma of Education at Excelsia College. He is passionate about helping students become life-long learners and critical thinkers. Michael is married with two young children. He is a keen musician and an avid cook, always looking for an opportunity to get into the kitchen and try something new. Michael attends Northmead Anglican Church.

Murray Garth

Secondary Teacher

After completing his B.Science and B.Engineering at the University of Sydney, Murray followed his passion for all things technological to work in the fields of hardware and software engineering. After ten years working in industry, the call came to have a more direct impact on the lives of young people. He completed his B.Education and has been teaching in Christian schools since 1997. Murray loves reading, programming, bushwalking and solving logic puzzles.

Olivia Gonzales

Secondary Teacher

Liv hails from a small town in the South Island of New Zealand surrounded by lots of beaches, lakes, mountains and forests. She trained as a concert pianist at the University of Otago before becoming a teacher, and now she loves playing as a part of a worship team and writing music. Liv has been at ACC since the beginning of 2020, and loves the culture of the school and the opportunity to bring the best out of others. She loves travelling and coffee - you can find her exploring various cafes and scenic spots in and around the city.

Rachel Law

DE Administrator

Rachel grew up in Auckland as the oldest of three girls. She moved to Australia in 2001 and has loved getting to know the Sydney-siders she considers family through church, university and work. Rachel is a passionate teacher who genuinely loves children. She completed a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education at the University of New South Wales and appreciates time with her husband. On the weekends, you’ll find her reading God’s word and playing with her baby.

Ralph Hearsey

Secondary Teacher

Ralph has been teaching at ACC since 2007 and graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Primary) specialising in PDHPE. Ralph is a graduate of ACC Marsden Park and has returned after university. Ralph is the year 7 team leader, he also teaches PDHPE & Wood Technology. When not at school Ralph enjoys spending time cooking, bush walking, building and renovating, playing sports and being involved in ministry at Riverstone Community Church.

Rebekah Wallace

Primary Teacher

Rebekah completed her Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) in 2003. She has a passion for young children, which led to the call of teaching. Rebekah is a busy mum of 3 children who also attend the college. She feels extremely blessed to be teaching in the primary school at the Australian Christian College. In her spare time Rebekah relaxes by reading, watching movies, taking long walks, coaching and playing netball and socialising with friends.

Saloom Aslam

Secondary Teacher

Saloom is a trained Ofsted School Evaluator, and has worked as a Curriculum Developer, School Evaluator, and IB PYP/MYP teacher in Pakistan. He has earned a Masters Degree in Education from Macquarie University. Completed an MPhil in ELM and Bachelors (double majors) in Education and Biotechnology. Saloom has a passion for Education and has presented at Idea-Exchange Sessions at International Conferences. His work on Blended Learning has been accepted and published in Italy, Thailand, Spain, Turkey and Pakistan. He is passionate about cricket, bushwalks and serving the Lord Jesus.

Shelley Tan

Primary Teacher

Shelley began as an Early Childhood Teacher where she fell in love with teaching young children. She has travelled to over twenty destinations around the world with a fond interest in culture, history and language. Shelley is a passionate and enthusiastic teacher who aims to create a classroom environment that encourages all learners to ‘have a go’ and challenge themselves. In her spare time, Shelley enjoys gardening, baking and spending time in nature.

Shellie Pratt

Primary Teacher

Shellie Pratt Is an experienced and enthusiastic teacher who loves to develop strong relationships with each individual child. She has a Bachelor degrees in Arts (Psychology), Teaching (Primary) and has recently completed her Masters of Education (Teacher Librarianship). The classroom routines, structure and Mrs Pratt’s high expectations encourages students to become the best versions of themselves. Mrs Pratt attends her local church, has been happily married for over 15 years and has three children plus a puppy named Disney.

Tom Ng

Secondary Teacher

Tom graduated from the University of Sydney in 2013 with a Bachelor of Arts and Education. He has worked in schools in Broken Hill and has taught English and HSIE. Tom enjoys drawing, analysing films and collecting armour to use in medieval-based combat. He attends West Sydney Chinese Christian Church in Strathfield where he is involved in various ministries including training others to connect the gospel to cultural texts. He also writes children’s picture books.

Werner Vlok

Primary Teacher

Werner is a Primary Teacher with over 20 years of experience on three continents. He gained his teaching qualifications in South Africa, then moved to the UK where he taught in a variety of schools before emigrating to Australia. He loves to see children grow in confidence and does this by reminding them of who they are in Christ. Werner enjoys teaching sport and is a keen mountain bike rider and camper. He attends a local church and serves as a connect group leader.

William Tay

DE Administrator

Will has been teaching for over a decade as a secondary teacher in various roles, most recently as a Distance Education teacher. He has come from a corporate background working as a software analyst and has a Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering. Will loves being part of such a vibrant, growing, christian community. Outside of school, Will enjoys exploring The Australian landscape with his growing family (3 boys under 4 y.o, 1 on the way!)