School Board

REDCLIFFE PRIMARY SCHOOL BOARD

The School Board plays an important role within the school, taking part in establishing and reviewing the school’s priorities and general policy directions. The Board works with the school to strengthen its capacity to best meet the needs of students. The Board comprises of school staff, parents and community representatives.

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

The School Board meets twice per term, Wednesday 5:00pm in week 3 and week 8.

  • Unless otherwise advised, meetings are open to the public.
  • Persons other than Board members do not have speaking or voting rights.
  • Meeting agendas and minutes can be found on Compass.
Board Chair
Troy Laurin
Secretary
Maja Topping
Principal
Claire Backhouse
Parent Representative
Damon Syme
Helen Cumming
Hannah Johnston
Bernice Palmer
Kelly Pumphrey
Staff Representative
Lyn Clark
Laureen Harvey
Nerelle McKinely
Samantha Amson
Kirsten Sheard
  • troy laurin v2

    Troy Laurin

    School Board Chair

    Parent of two children at Redcliffe Primary School and Board Chair since 2025.

    My professional background is in software engineering, and I bring an analytical approach to supporting the school's long-term direction.

  • maja topping

    Maja Topping

    Secretary

    I am a geologist working for a gold company and I have been a member of the school board since 2019. I assumed the role of secretary in 2023. This will be my final year as my child is in year 6.

    I have loved my time on the school board. It's a great way to be involved and connected with the school community and help improve our kids' experiences and learning at school.

  • claire backhouse v2

    Claire Backhouse

    Principal

    I bring over 20 years of experience in education, across multiple systems and educational contexts. I am committed to high-quality leadership and continuous improvement, I champion innovative practices that create meaningful outcomes for students, staff, and school communities.

    My passion for high potential, twice exceptional and SAER learners sees me champion innovation, advocate for differentiation and critical and creative thinking. I believe in the power of strong relationships, collaborative culture, and future-focused thinking to drive student success.

  • damon syme

    Damon Syme

    Board Member

    Bio Pending

  • helen cumming

    Helen Cumming

    Board Member

    My name is Helen and I'm a parent at Redcliffe Primary School with my son William in his final year.

    I'm currently studying Commerce at university with a double major in Accounting and Business Law, while also running a small business.

  • hannah johnston

    Hannah Johnston

    Board Member

    With over 17 years experience working in accounting and public practice, I hope to bring my financial and analytical skills to the table.

    As a long-time Belmont local and parent at Redcliffe Primary School, I'm passionate about supporting the school community and contributing to its ongoing discussions.

  • bernice palmer

    Bernice Palmer

    Board Member

    I'm a parent of a Year 5 student. I enjoy being actively involved in the school community and P & C.

    I value the school's welcoming feel, and I'm committed to supporting its continued growth.

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    Kelly Pumphrey

    School Member

    I am an IT consultant with over 25 years' experience in IT including cyber security, cloud and infrastructure.

    I have previously held positions as secretary on the School Advisory Council at St Maria Goretti Catholic School (SMG) and in an IT advisory capacity on the CECWA Audit and Risk Committee.

    I have an 8 yr old neurodiverse son who attends the school in year 3.

  • lyn clark

    Lyn Clark

    Board Member

    I have worked for the Department of Education for 37 years and have been the Manager Corporate Services at Redcliffe Primary School for the past 20 years.

    I genuinely enjoy being part of the Redcliffe Primary School community, where every day brings new opportunities and challenges. My role is to ensure the school has the financial resources, staffing, and facilities needed to support our students' learning and success. I also oversee the maintenance and day-to-day operations of the school, helping to provide a safe, welcoming, and well-presented environment for students, staff, and families. It is a privilege to contribute to a school community that is committed to helping every child achieve their best.

  • laureen harvey

    Laureen Harvey

    Board Member

    My name is Mrs Laureen Harvey and I have been at Redcliffe Primary school for 26 years. In this time, I have seen children come and go and now they are bringing their own children here.

    I love working in the library, where I enjoy making up different display for all types of occasions. I believe that every child can succeed in life's challenges that come their way.

    I look forward to working with the staff and students for many more years to come.

  • nerelle mckinley

    Nerelle McKinley

    Board Member

    I am a proud Noongar woman. My position as ALO/AEIO provides the framework needed to build strong relationships with students and their families. It also assists me to liaise between students, their families with all our educators.

    In this role, I can liaise with the wider community as well. My aim is to ensure that all our students get access to the best education we can offer and to help our students to achieve all their goals and dreams.

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    Samantha Amson

    Board Member

    I have been an Early Childhood Education teacher since 2007, with experience teaching in remote, regional and metro schools, and am in my third year at Redcliffe Primary School.

    I value the opportunity to make a positive difference in students' lives and have taken on the challenge this year of working in Kindy, where I can scaffold learning, nurture confidence, and help shape young learners during their foundational years. Every day brings something new, and I am enjoying building relationships with new families and watching students grow in confidence, independence, and their love of learning.

  • kirsten sheard

    Kirsten Sheard

    Board Member

    I am the Deputy Principal at Redcliffe Primary School. I am committed to creating a positive and supportive school environment where every student feels valued and respected. I believe all students can succeed when they are encouraged, challenged and supported in their learning.

    I look forward to working with fellow Board members to support the ongoing success of Redcliffe Primary School and ensure the best possible outcomes for all students.

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