RETIREMENTS

SUSAN BARHAM

Susan Barham has been a constant source of support and expertise, and an exemplar of collaboration in action since she joined the administration team as Staff Secretary in a job-sharing role in 2000.

With her background in education, corporate training and management consulting, and her wonderful knowledge of all things Microsoft, Susan has rescued many of us, so willingly, in our times of need.

A breath of fresh air each morning with every outfit colour coordinated, from magical earrings to “not so sensible” shoes, Susan will be greatly missed.

Susan is shortly expecting to become a grandmother. We are so happy knowing she has more time to spend with her adoring, growing family.

JILL KUITERS

After sixteen years at Loreto Kirribilli, Mathematics teacher and calculus wizard Jill Kuiters is turning off the calculator and preparing for a relaxing retirement. Jill has been the guru of the Mathematics Department since 2005, due to her extensive experience in teaching the calculusbased courses, especially Mathematics Extension 2.

As a colleague, Jill would always be there as the fountain of knowledge, not just about Maths, but about the students, or any other situation. She is someone who will always volunteer to take a class if someone is sick, or step up to support a colleague in need.

She has a very caring nature, and in her role as a Year Coordinator she created strong bonds with the girls, while still maintaining high expectations of them.

Thank you Jill, and we wish you the very best for your next chapter.

MICHAEL OATES

Bringing with him teaching rigour, kindness and a wicked sense of humour, Michael Oates joined the Mathematics Department from St Pius X College in 1997.

Respected and admired by colleagues and students alike, Michael was able to create a culture of absolute silence in the classroom, with his captivated audience hanging on his every word.

Michael has the enviable ability to bring mathematical concepts to life. His attention to detail is second to none and all his assessments, programs, registers, calendars and smartboard lessons are always produced with great care, on time and to an incredibly high standard.

Michael will be greatly missed here at Loreto Kirribilli. We wish him every happiness in his retirement.

DEB SIMPSON

In a career that spans more than four decades, Deborah Simpson has proven herself to be that most treasured of assets - the passionate English teacher.

Deborah joined us in 2013 from Abbotsleigh, where she had been Head of English. Stepping into her new role at Loreto Kirribilli, she quickly became a valued and respected member of the English Department.

Deborah was instrumental in the publication of a suite of well-regarded text books on teaching English and the Australian curriculum. Deb has also been an active member of the English Teachers’ Association, winning an Outstanding Professional Services Award for her significant and ongoing support of teachers and education.

We are indeed blessed to have had Deb’s amazing contribution, and wish her well in the next stage of her “brilliant career”.

Retirements

RAY STEEL

When Ray Steel joined Loreto Kirribilli in 2010, he brought with him many years of experience working as a chemist, laboratory technician and supervisor with Unilever’s quality assurance department.

With his skills, knowledge and expertise, Ray has been an integral member of the Science team, and appreciated by all members of staff for his incredible enthusiasm and dedication. From memorable rocket launches to chemistry demonstrations - no problem was ever too hard for the passionate scientist. Armed with goggles, lab coat and Bunsen burner, all the time keeping up a stream of informative, humorous commentary, students were always engaged and curious when Mr Steel was working his “magic”.

We wish Ray and his family well, and we very much hope that he will enjoy his much-deserved retirement.

JULIE WALKER

Julie Walker joined the Loreto Kirribilli community in 1998 from Masada, and held the role of Mathematics Coordinator until the end of 2014.

Julie has made an immense contribution to the Mathematics Department, not least because of her incredible knowledge of the content and syllabuses. One of the most significant impacts Julie had on the faculty was the introduction of a culture of collaboration, by ensuring all resources were shared. Through this she has built a professional sense of camaraderie which has developed into many lasting friendships.

Julie is someone who gets to know her fellow staff and students and shows genuine concern for all. She is very sensitive to the needs of others, and is often there offering help at the right time. Julie will be greatly missed and we wish her every happiness in her retirement.

LILY WANG

Lily Wang joined Loreto Kirribilli in 2013, taking responsibility for teaching Mandarin from Kindergarten to Year 8. She has become a much loved and admired member of staff in both the Junior and Senior schools. Lily’s teaching methods have brought out the best in her students. Every lesson is a demonstration of active teaching, from beautiful songs and games, to wonderful projects and serious conversations.

Highlights for the students were their performances at the Chinese Spectacular and excursions to the Chinese Gardens. Lily has truly inspired many girls to study Mandarin right through to the HSC. “Neha, Mrs Wang!” was the call from students in the corridors when Lily was passing by. Students and colleagues alike will all miss Lily’s warmth, enthusiasm, and outstanding pedagogy.

MICHELLE YOUNG

Michelle joined Loreto Kirribilli in 1997, fulfilling a number of roles until she found her niche in the Enrolments Office. During her many years in enrolments, Michelle was the friendly voice at the end of the phone for countless families, responding to every enquiry with patience and professionalism. She perfected the art of delivering disappointing news with empathy and lent a sympathetic ear to many.

Michelle has been a trusted colleague and friend with a sharp wit and caring nature - not to mention a love of all things canine!

Married to Bill for over 40 years, they are the proud parents of three sons and the whole family were thrilled to welcome grandson Tommy into the Young fold in March 2020.

We wish Michelle much happiness and enjoyment in her retirement!