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
I am incredibly proud to lead a high-performing school at the heart of a vibrant, culturally and linguistically diverse community. Our students, families, and staff bring remarkable strengths, resilience, and stories that shape who we are—an inclusive community united by a belief in every child’s potential.
My commitment is simple: to give every student a strong start in learning, supported by dedicated teachers who care deeply about both academic growth and wellbeing. When students feel safe, valued, and connected, they achieve extraordinary things. That’s why we prioritise a nurturing environment where every child feels they belong and are encouraged to step forward with confidence.
With high-quality, evidence-based teaching and strong partnerships with families, we open doors to opportunity and empower every learner to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Our goal is to equip every young person with the knowledge, skills, and character to lead happy, fulfilling lives.
Thank you for your trust and partnership. Together, we build a community where every child can succeed.
Effie Niarchos, Principal of Canley Vale High School
Our school leaders
Our school leaders, including our principal, guide teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.
Ms B Dohnal - Deputy Principal, Year 10 and 12
Ms R Carniato - Deputy Principal, Year 8 and 11
Ms S Neferis - Deputy Principal, Diverse Learners (W-F)
Ms J Sulfaro - Relieving Deputy Principal, Diverse Learners (M-Tu)
Mr A Trumble - Deputy Principal, Year 7 and 9
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
- Administration - Ms S Pantelakis (Rel)
- Diverse Learners - Ms J Marcelo and Mr J Pingol (Relieving)
- English and EALD - Ms J Sulfaro and Dr Peta Hay
- History - Ms C Norton
- Home Economics and Computing - Ms M Wright
- Industrial Arts - Mr Al Rajab
- Languages and Performing Arts - Mr P Htoo
- Learning Support and Literacy - Ms H Skopelja (Rel)
- Mathematics - Mr V Nguyen
- PDHPE - Mr R Blanchard
- Science - Ms K Rogers
- Social Science - Mr A Browne
- Teaching and Learning - Staff - Mr J Sassine (Rel)
- Teaching and Learning - Curriculum - Ms G Condell
- Visual Arts - Ms A Stojanovski
- Vocational Education and Training (V.E.T) - Ms E Keranovic
- Wellbeing (Years 8, 10, 12) - Ms E Vallak
- Wellbeing (Years 7, 9, 11) - Ms J Nguyen
Other people you need to know
- Anti-Racism Contact Officer (ARCO) - Mr P Tran
- Careers Advisers - Ms F Patrizi and Ms B Huynh
- Community Liaison Officers - Ms R Abedine (Arabic) and Ms P Leiataua (Pasifika)
- Counsellors - Ms T Butler (Tues), Mr M McGrath (Mon & Wed) and Ms T Thompson (Thurs and Fri)
- International Student Coordinator - Ms M Le
- Sports Coordinator - Mr S Carroll
- Student Representative Council (SRC) Coordinator - Ms R Goundar and Ms K Robinson
- Year 6-7 Transition Coordinator -
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.
Head Teacher Wellbeing
- Ms E Vallak (Years 8, 10 & 12)
- Ms J Nguyen (Years 7, 9 & 11)
Counsellors
- Mr M McGrath (Mon & Wed)
- Ms T Butler (Tues)
- Ms T Thompson (Thurs and Fri)
Year Advisors
- Year 7 - Mr J Ta, Ms K Robinson and Ms R Kanno
- Year 8 - Mr P Nguyen, Ms J Nguyen and Mr D Lay
- Year 9 - Ms C Nguyen and Ms R Goundar
- Year 10 - Ms O Piccinin and Ms S Cognetta
- Year 11 - Ms S Kong, Ms C La and Mr A Hoang
- Year 12 - Ms K Cao, Ms T Phan and Mr P Tran
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.
- Business Manager - Ms M Buckley
- School Administration Manager - Ms M Holohan
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.