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

Welcome to Colo High School, where we are renowned for our commitment to academic excellence and creating a community where at Colo we CARE. We foster excellence and ensure that all students are known, valued, and cared for in a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Our outstanding teachers are dedicated to empowering students to become engaged, respectful learners. We take pride in our exceptional transition programs, which support our students as they grow and thrive, preparing them for the challenges ahead. Through collaboration with our community, we offer diverse opportunities for academic and personal growth, helping each student to develop into a motivated learner ready for the wider world.

At Colo High School, we strive for excellence in all that we do. Our vision is to ensure that every student finishes school prepared to succeed in their chosen pathway, becoming informed and responsible citizens. Together, we cultivate resilience and responsibility, empowering our students to reach their full potential.

I invite you to explore our school and join us on this exciting journey of growth and learning.

Mrs Tara Cullen, Principal of Colo 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.

Our Head Teachers

Our Head Teachers lead specific departments, supporting teachers and students to achieve their best and contribute to a positive school environment.

Our Head Teachers
  • Ms Kristin Smith, English
  • Ms Deb Bridge, Mathematics
  • Mr Damien Geerling, Science
  • Mr Dennis Lendon, HSIE
  • Ms Lynn Collet, PDHPE
  • Mr Scott Willoughby-Green, TAS
  • Mrs Sharron Mountain & Mr Tegan Bilbija, CAPA
  • Mrs Melissa Szymkow, Wellbeing
  • Mr Nicholas Kemp, Administration

Our Year Advisors

Year Advisors support the wellbeing and progress of students in their year group, helping them navigate school life and reach their potential.

Our Year Advisors 2025
  • Year 7: Ms Simone Bruton
  • Year 8: Ms Michaela Melinz & Mr Isaac Walker
  • Year 9: Mrs Selena Purcell
  • Year 10: Mr Matt Grigg
  • Year 11: Mrs Karen Smith & Mr Peter Hanns
  • Year 12: Ms Jadelyn Williamson
Our Year 7 2026 Year Advisor
Mr Zach Wheatley

Our teachers make the difference

Expert Educators

Our team of expert educators at Colo High School are dedicated to inspiring and guiding students through innovative teaching and personalised support to achieve their best.

Effective Teaching and Collaborative Practice

At Colo High School, effective teaching is enhanced through collaborative practices that empower educators to share expertise and create engaging, student-centred learning experiences.

Learning Support Staff

Our Learning Support staff guide student 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.

Learning Support staff
  • Mrs Trudy Keevers
  • Mrs Tanya Ridgewell
  • Ms Katherine Jones

Wellbeing Staff

Our Wellbeing Staff help students maintain their mental and emotional health, ensuring a safe and caring school environment for everyone.

Wellbeing Staff
  • Mrs Melissa Szymkow, Wellbeing Head Teacher
  • Mrs Megan Farrell, Counsellor
  • Mrs Georgia Beyers, Counsellor
  • Mrs Nathaya Kyriacou, Student Support Officer

Aboriginal Education School Learning Support Officer

Our Aboriginal Education SLSO supports our Aboriginal students by promoting cultural understanding and helping them succeed in their learning and wellbeing.

Aboriginal Education SLSO

Miss Madison Farrell-Hodgetts

Administrative and Operations staff

Our administrative and operations staff keep our school running smoothly. They support students, teachers and families every day.

Our Administrative and Operations staff
  • Ms Alana McNair, Careers Advisor
  • Mrs Sharon Muzyczka, School Administration Manager
  • Mr Leo Giusti, Technical Support Officer

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

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.