Meet the Team

Welcome to the team at Advance College! Our bios tell you a little bit about who we are and what we do both at work and in our spare time – we are always open for a chat and a catchup whenever you need.

James Doble

Principal

As the Principal of the school my job is to ensure that you are supported, engaged, grow and learn from your experiences with us! In my spare time I scuba dive, bike ride, cook and love to read!

Kris Helisma

Assistant Principal

I am in charge of making sure that all students have a positive learning experience at Advance.

My office is to the right of reception. I love receiving feedback from students about things that are working well and not working so well so please drop in and have a chat.

Clare Andrews

Student Management Coordinator

My main role is student support. I’m here to assist you with anything that may help you reach your full potential.

When I’m not working you’ll find me renovating or cooking.

Roney Weaver

Assistant Principal

I’m here to support all things teaching and learning. I enjoy reading, spending time outdoors, and trivia. My office is located near reception, and my door is always open, feel free to come by with any questions or fun facts!

Bridgette Slavin

Teacher
Hi, I’m Bridge 🙂I’m a teacher and I’ll be floating around the Rosebud campus.
I love a chat so let me know if I can help you with anything this year.
You might even get a chance to meet Mustang, my golden retriever who loves
to drop in!

James Oakley

Student Support-Wellbeing

I’m one of the student support officers at Rosebud. I’m always ready for a chat, especially if it involves discussing the merits of guacamole .

Del Preston

Student Support-Pathways

I provide support to help students choose a VET course, work experience opportunities and assist with employment and  pathways.

When I am not at work I enjoy camping with my family and being outdoors.

Erin Bourke

Student Support

I work in a VET Student Support Role at Rosebud (Wed) and Hastings (Thurs).

Outside of work, I love to spend time with my family travelling and enjoying outdoor activities.

Kylie McGowan

Student Support-Wellbeing

I’m one of the Wellbeing team members here at Advance. I’m always available for a chat and love to listen, especially if you’re having “one of those days”. I love music, dance and theatre and having a laugh 😊

Mitch Wood

Teacher

One of the home teachers for VPC Wilson at Rosebud. I enjoy getting outside and playing sports, as well as winning blookets and card games.

Ali Biggs

Teacher

I work in the best workplace and have awesome colleagues. Outside of school I enjoy spending time in the garden, hiking, being at the beach, and hanging out with my 2 poochies, Fred and Ted.

Jake Smith

Teacher

One of the home teachers for VPC Henry at Rosebud. I love getting outside and playing games, followed by filling my stomach with whatever food I can find.

Ash Fathers

Teacher

I’m a teacher at Advance, where I’m passionate about supporting students and creating a positive learning environment. When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy taking nature walks, spending time with my kids and in my garden.

Darryn O’Connor

Teacher

I love creating projects that stretch students and encourage personal growth. When I’m not at Advance, I like surfing, staying fit and healthy, and spending time in the outdoors with my family.

Jenna Keogh

Teacher

Hi, I’m Jenna, I’m a home teacher at Hastings and spend some time at Rosebud.   I’m a Thalassophile (and no that’s not a dinosaur!) I enjoy assisting you with your school work and other life admin. Chat soon.

Cassie Black

Teacher

Hi I’m Cassie, I am one of the teachers at Rosebud. I love the outdoors and spend my down time surfing, hiking and growing vegetables in my garden. I am excited to be at Advance and look forward to getting to know you all.

Ace

Wellbeing Dog

Hi, I’m Ace!

I’m here to make everyone’s day a little brighter and a lot more relaxed. I love snacks and naps.

Tash

Occupational Therapist

I help students to strengthen the skills that help them learn, connect, and participate in ways that feel authentic to who they are.

I can provide support with sensory regulation, executive functioning, and functional life skills through a neuro affirming, collaborative approach. When I’m not at work I enjoy going camping in the bush and skiing at the snow in winter.

Zoe

Psychologist

I am at Rosebud campus every Monday and fortnightly Tuesdays. On the alternate Tuesday I am at the Hastings campus.  provide mental health support and counselling whilst at school, to help you stay engaged in your learning.

When I’m not at school I love walking my dog Sadie and searching for sea glass at the beach.