2026 Term 2: Mon 20th Apr - Fri 26th June

Our Staff

Across teaching, support and administration, our staff bring knowledge, experience and care to the life of the School. Their collective wisdom and commitment help foster a culture of belonging, curiosity and meaningful learning.

Early Childhood
and the
Kindy Garden

A smiling educator embodying Kindlehills warm community spirit and a deep, nurturing connection to the living world.

Kirsty Edwards

Kindy Teacher
Kirsty has completed Studies of Anthroposophy and Rudolf Steiner Education (Early Childhood) at the Sydney Rudolf Steiner College, and a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) from James Cook University. She joined Kindlehill in 2008 as a Kindergarten assistant and has been Kindergarten Teacher since 2013.

“As the Kindergarten teacher, I nurture the young child as they begin their journey at Kindlehill. I enjoy creating an environment that is rich in imagination, beauty and wonder, supporting and guiding the development of the whole child”.
A smiling Kindlehill educator radiates the warmth and human connection vital to this organic, nature-centred learning community.

Meredith Mallin

After School Care Coordinator and
Playgroup Coordinator
Meredith is a trained and practised Early Childhood Teacher with a special interest in Art Education.
Meredith has been supporting the children in the school already through teaching relief work and relief in ASC in 2024.
Smiling Kindlehill educator amongst Blue Mountains greenery, embodying community warmth and a deep connection to nature and Country.

Anna Randall

Kindy Teacher
Through her children's experiences at Kindlehill, Anna saw how Steiner education nurtures the whole child and fosters a love of learning.

Anna has worked in early childhood her whole career and in the last six years, joined the Kindlehill Steiner School team. Anna has a Bachelor of Arts in English literature and brings her love of stories to the children.

It gives her so much pleasure to be part of this school and to kindle the light of learning on this ancient and beautiful land.

Primary School

A Kindlehill educator embodies community warmth, honouring a deep connection to nature and the Blue Mountains landscape.

John Higgins

Class 1-2 Teacher
John comes from a multifaceted background including education and hospitality management. He has worked for an independent English language teaching school in the Sydney CBD for 12 years.

He has travelled extensively, living and working in many countries enabling him to gain a deeper insight into the cultures he has visited. John has worked at Kindlehill as a learning support and After School Care educator.

“Throughout my life I have been very fortunate to have shown courage and follow my intuition. Courage is a trait I foster in my students.”
A Kindlehill educator wearing hand-spun wool, celebrating artistic expression and the warm spirit of this vibrant Steiner community.

Lynn Daniel

Class 5-6 Teacher
Originally a High School teacher in the public system, Lynn has also taught at TAFE and in community settings. In the Steiner context, she has previously been a Kindergarten and Primary School teacher. In addition to her roles as Chair and Assistant Principal, Lynn is High School Co-Ordinator, teaches Geography and History, and co-ordinates the Outdoor Education Programme. Lynn has a B. Arts (UWA) and a Dip. Ed. (WA Secondary Teachers College).

“In every lesson I seek to engage the students with inner world/outer world explorations. Every new topic is a lens for making sense of our lives whether through examining the past or by looking out into the richness and complexity of the world.”
A welcoming educator fosters community warmth amidst hand-crafted timber bookshelves, awakening imagination and curiosity through story.

Susanne Evans

Student Support
Susanne “Skye” Evans has been involved in Steiner Early Childhood classrooms at Blue Mountains Steiner School since 2004, first as a mother of 5, then playgroup leader, preschool teacher at Wattle Glow Preschool, and kindergarten assistant.

She has taught drama, music and literacy in the US, UK and Australia, specialising in connecting with neurodivergent students. Originally from Lincoln, Nebraska, USA, she holds a BA in communications and theatre arts from Nebraska Wesleyan University, and has completed professional development in Steiner Early Childhood from Sydney Rudolph Steiner College. Susanne is a professional performing artist and musician and also runs Nourishing Mountains, a local organic produce delivery service.
A smiling educator radiates warmth and trust, embodying the Kindlehill spirit of deep connection and compassionate community belonging.

Colette Patton

Student Support
Collette holds a Bachelor of Education (Primary) from the University of New England. She began her career as an educator at Kindlehill (2013–2016), before spending several years in Canberra where she gained further experience in a Reggio Emilia-inspired school, as well as working as a relief teacher in a large public school in Canberra’s progressive Inner North. After returning to the Blue Mountains with her young family, she joined Kindlehill's learning support team in 2022. Collette specialises in literacy intervention, using structured, evidence-based approaches to support reading development.

“I’m passionate about making literacy accessible to all students, while building trusting relationships where children feel safe to have a go. Education is a powerful force for social justice - it empowers, builds confidence, creates opportunities, and contributes to a fairer world. I love being part of this work.”
A smiling woman embodies the Kindlehill spirit of belonging and a deep, earth-centred connection to nature.

S’haila Bernard

Class 3-4 Teacher
With a B. Arts (Social Ecology) and a Master of Teaching (UWS), S’haila has been at Kindlehill since 2001 when she came to a Spring Open Day with her children - and stayed! Since then, she has variously been Playgroup leader, Kindy assistant, member of the Village people, Craft coordinator, Gymnastic and sport coach, Music program coordinator, SEA delegate, Gardener and Gardening coordinator, Class Teacher and College member.

“I do what I love, I love what I do”.
Radiant warmth and belonging at Kindlehill Steiner School, embodying a joyful spirit of community and deep connection.

Bec Tyson

Primary School Teacher
Bec holds a Bachelor of Arts from Macquarie University and a Master of Teaching (Primary) from UNE. Since 2020, Bec has taught in both the public and Steiner education systems, bringing a neuro-affirming approach informed by lived experience. With 12 years of homeschooling experience, a strong background in child protection, and years spent coordinating volunteers at the Blue Mountains Food Co-op, Bec brings a deep commitment to community, inclusivity, and holistic education.

"I am passionate about weaving cross-curricular learning with real-world connections, fostering curiosity and a sense of purpose in my students."
Kindlehill community member plays music, fostering deep connection and celebrating the schools heart-centred spirit through song.

Sue Totterdell

Student Support
Sue has had a varied career in administration, teaching, music and acting. She worked for several Steiner Schools in NSW before joining Kindlehill in 2011 where she has been Administration and Class Assistant, Music Tutor (ukulele and voice) and High School Choir leader. Sue is currently studying a Bachelor of Music at Western Sydney University.

“Sometimes I think you believe in me more than I do,” said the boy. “You’ll catch up,” said the horse.

Kindlehill mentor radiates warmth and creativity, nurturing a heart-centred village connection through compassion and artistic expression.

Eliza Logan

Student Support
Eliza holds a BA (Performance) from Theatre Nepean, UWS and is a professional actor in theatre, film, television, and voiceover, and has worked in those fields both in Australia and internationally.

Alongside her acting career, Eliza has enjoyed teaching and directing for numerous acting institutions, universities, and schools across the nation. For nine years Eliza was Head of Co-Curricular Drama at St Catherine’s School, Waverley (both junior and high school) and is now one of the three Principal Tutors with Blue Mountains Drama. Eliza has written work for Milk Crate Theatre, the National Maritime Museum, and Bananas in Pajamas for the ABC and is delighted to bring her passion for language to the Literacy Program!

"I love helping people realise and exercise their potential!"
Smiling Kindlehill educator radiating warmth and authenticity, embodying the courage to walk an individual path against an earthy backdrop.

Victoria Sand Petersen

Student Support
Victoria is a Danish citizen and immigrated in 2021 to Australia with her family. She has been working with children since 2008 and in 2016 she completed a Bachelor Degree in Social Education in her native Copenhagen, Denmark. She has extensive experience in working with children that have been diagnosed, developed behaviour issues and other challenges.

Victoria uses her passions and experiences in her teaching methods to help foster a warm and inviting environment. Victoria’s formulative years was within the Royal Danish Ballet School, which helped her to integrate movement into her learning environments.

"I love helping people realise and exercise their potential!"

High School

A welcoming mentor embodying Kindlehills culture of warmth and trust, honouring the deep connection between families and school.

Curt Stocksiek

Science Teacher
Curt has extensive experience and qualifications in both management and in teaching. His teaching qualifications include a Dip. T., Bach. Ed. and Grad. Dip. Env. Stud. Since beginning as a Science Teacher at Salisbury High School (SA) in 1984, Curt has taught at the University of Western Sydney and various schools in western Sydney before joining Kindlehill in 2019.

“After over 30 years of teaching at Secondary and Tertiary levels it is a joy to be in a learning environment where a teacher can connect with students. I became a teacher to make a difference to lives and here, given the values and environment engendered at Kindlehill, I can.”

Kindlehill educator radiates the heart-led community spirit central to building the schools organic performance space and nurturing children.

Sarah Daniel

Geography and History Teacher
Sarah has a B. Arts (UN) and a Master of Teaching (UNE). She works both as a teacher and as student support throughout the school.

“One of the most exciting things when working to support students, is when they find something that they are passionate about, that they really connect to. Finding ways to support their engagement and the depth of their learning is incredibly rewarding.

As a teacher, it is a pleasure to be working in an environment where creativity, critical thinking and a real sense of love for the world is valued and imbues all you do”.
An expressive storyteller awakens imagination, fostering heart-centred connection and a culture of growth within the Kindlehill community.

Georgia Adamson

Drama Teacher
Georgia is a professional actor who has worked extensively across theatre, film and tv. Most recently, she played Sal Thornhill in Sydney Theatre Company’s production of The Secret River at the 2019 Edinburgh International Festival and the National Theatre in London. Georgia is a passionate teacher and has taught for Sydney Theatre Company and Bell Shakespeare Company, in juvenile justice centres and through her own business, Blue Mountains Drama.

A woman in a blue woollen jumper radiates Kindlehills warmth, heart-centred connection, and compassionate community spirit.

Stephanie Dawes

English Teacher
Stephanie has completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts (COFA, UNSW), a Bachelor of Communications (UTS) and a Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education (Monash). She has a pre-teaching background in the arts, public affairs and publishing, and taught in London and Sydney before joining Kindlehill in 2017.

“I love the creativity and freedom that Kindlehill affords both teachers and students, and how this allows us to engage in meaningful and relevant learning experiences in an exciting, engaging and empathic way”.
A smiling woman embodies the warm Kindlehill spirit and the creative vision behind the schools evolutionary building projects.

Libby Gahl

High School Learning Support
After graduating from NIDA, Libby worked as a Production/Stage Manager/SD designer in theatres around Sydney and Melbourne. Following that, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Communications (UTS) and a Grad. Dip. Ed in Literacy/Numeracy Education (UTS). Since 2007, she has worked as an English Language Literacy Teacher at Ultimo TAFE in Sydney and has been the Literacy Support Teacher at Kindlehill since 2013.

“A ridiculously beautiful school, in the most sparkly place on earth; I’m grateful to teach and learn from equally sparkly children”.

Radiant Kindlehill staff member embodies warmth and earth centredness, cultivating connection to others and the living world.

Leanne Clark

Maths Teacher
Leanne completed her undergraduate, Bachelor of Science, focusing on pure and applied mathematics. Following this with a Graduate Diploma in Education, then commenced teaching, working in state and Catholic schools for some years, eventually completing her Masters of Education.
Leanne then completed the 3 year teacher certificate through Steiner House in Sydney, at the same time commencing teaching at a Steiner School, and has been a Steiner teacher for over 20 years, predominantly in high school mathematics. Leanne has been a Class Guardian multiple times, and on occasions over those years has been a member of the Board, as well as a member of the College of Teachers. Leanne commenced at Kindlehill in 2022.

"I have continued to enjoy teaching mathematics and to develop ideas through concrete examples, through colour and imagery. I enjoy delving into the worlds of geometry and algebra in particular and sharing this with students."

Music Tutors

A Kindlehill teacher smiles warmly holding a cello, embodying artistic expression and the rhythmic community breath of music.

Elizabeth Cooney

Violin Tutor
Elizabeth began violin studies at the age of four and completed a Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Arts at UNSW graduating in 2010.

Elizabeth enjoys contributing musically to the Blue Mountains community through collaboration with local musicians, choirs, BMMS and leading local string orchestra Orpheus Strings. Elizabeth is a member of the Kanimbla Quartet who perform regularly in the Blue Mountains and greater Sydney area. Elizabeth has been teaching the violin for fifteen years and is passionate about providing individualised lessons for each student. She strives to encourage and motivate her students to achieve and instill in them a life-long love of music.

A Kindlehill educator wearing a green pendant embodies our schools grounded spirit and deep connection to nature.

Bronwyn Kirkpatrick

Clarinet and Shakuhachi Tutor
After receiving her Bachelor of Music degree in clarinet performance from the Canberra School of Music with distinction, Bronwyn pursued her interest in the shakuhachi flute and was awarded a Churchill Fellowship to study in Japan with Japanese masters. She has taught clarinet in the Blue Mountains for over twenty years both privately and in schools.

“I love teaching at Kindlehill. The energy is positive and dynamic, and the students are engaged and enthusiastic. I always walk in and out with a spring in my step.”

Administration

A smiling community member radiates warmth, embodying Kindlehills focus on deep human connection and cultivating whole humans.

Erica Chaperlin

Principal
“I am excited to be Principal of Kindlehill Steiner School.
It is my profound privilege to guide and support the School community in the important work of preparing children and young people for the future.

Alongside the wonderful staff at Kindlehill Steiner School and the fantastic family community that exists at Kindlehill, we are working towards and building a more socially just, healthier future for our planet and all who find their home there.

It’s both humbling and deeply inspiring and my depth of gratitude runs deep.”
A Kindlehill mentor radiates warmth and authentic presence, fostering the spirit of community and connection for every family.

Andrew Robertson

Business Manager
Andrew holds an Advanced Diploma in Accounting, a Bachelor of Business (UTS) and has completed the CPA program. He has financial experience working in a diverse array of industries including IT, women’s cosmetics, shipping and table-top gaming. Prior to Kindlehill, Andrew was working in the Early Child Care sector with a focus on governance, management, compliance, business support and workplace relations.

“Kindlehill provides me with the opportunity not only working on the financial/ business side of its organisation, but also to develop on a personal level, as the school, the children and all the staff develop and be a part of the wonderful Kindlehill community”.

Kindlehill staff member fostering warmth and heart-centred connection while honouring the developmental journey of every whole human.

Lisa Parragi

Compliance Officer
Lisa studied music in Sydney and worked in the arts before finding her way to the Blue Mountains and Kindlehill. She has two children, the older of whom has now started at Kindlehill. As Compliance Officer Lisa manages many of the school’s government reporting, policy review and other regulatory requirements.

“At Kindlehill Steiner School I am fortunate to feel that my own work, in whatever small way, contributes towards the wonderful work of the school.”

A Kindlehill educator wearing hand-spun wool, celebrating artistic expression and the warm spirit of this vibrant Steiner community.

Lynn Daniel

Assistant Principal
Lynn, as a founding teacher, has accompanied Kindlehill Steiner School through its growth and transformations. As Chair of the Board and as a member of the teaching executive, Lynn sees her role as co-custodianship; both privilege and responsibility to the evolving being of Kindlehill Steiner School.

In 2024, Lynn extended her role as High School Coordinator into Lead Teacher in the innovative and exciting Senior School program, Buran Nalgarra. Cultivating a reciprocal relationship with the wider community and with the beautiful Blue Mountains WHA, sits at the heart of Lynn’s vision for Schooling at Kindlehill.
A Kindlehill educator honours Country and First Peoples, fostering community connection through vibrant storytelling and shared purpose.

Rebecca Cornish

Administration Assistant
A mother of four children Rebecca joined Kindlehill Steiner School in 2018. Rebecca manages all enquiries, including enrolments, and is responsible for supporting the teaching and administration staff, including booking camps, organising school events, purchasing, performance space bookings, and first aid.

"I love supporting the staff, students and families of Kindlehill. It is wonderful to be a part of such a supportive community”.
A teacher stands amidst the Blue Mountains, honouring a profound connection with the land and the spirit of community.

Derek Johnston

IT Support, Maintenance & Workshop Coordinator
Derek is a Mechanical Engineer previously working in the Rail industry in design, manufacturing, maintenance and management. Derek has one child at Kindlehill, has been an active supporter of school activities, and now tutors woodworking and is responsible for maintenance and IT at the school.

"I’m finding many fun and exciting opportunities with Kindlehill Steiner School, working with the kids is a joy, the staff are warm and friendly and the environment is an inspiration."

Follow Our Journey

Acknowledgement of Country

Kindlehill Steiner School is situated on Dharug and Gundungurra land; we pay respects to the traditional custodians whose cultures and customs continue to nurture this land. We support the Uluru Statement from the Heart, Truth telling about the impact and legacy of colonisation, a Voice to Parliament enshrined in the Australian Constitution and a process of Treaty making.

2026 Term Dates

Term 1
Tues 27th Jan – Wed 1st April
Term 2
Mon 20th Apr – Fri 26th June
Term 3
Mon 20th July – Fri 18th Sept
Term 4
Mon 12th Oct – Fri 11 Dec

Find Us At

Kindlehill Steiner School logo depicting a dragonfly atop native architecture, honouring growth through a sacred connection with Country.
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Wentworth Falls, Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia
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