Our principal and staff

Principal - Melanie Mackie

Mrs Mackie is the proud Foundation Principal of Box Hill Public School and brings extensive leadership experience from her years as Principal of Bilpin Public School and across Western Sydney. She is deeply committed to building strong, connected school communities where every child is known, valued and cared for. With a focus on collaboration, innovation and inclusion, Mrs Mackie leads with a clear vision for high-quality teaching and learning. She has a strong belief in evidence-based practice, equity in education and the wellbeing of all students and staff. Her leadership is grounded in authenticity and purpose, inspiring those around her to create a school culture where learning, belonging and curiosity thrive.

Deputy Principal - Deanne Witchard

Mrs Witchard brings a deep commitment to curriculum development, evidence-based practice and student wellbeing to Box Hill Public School. Her leadership focuses on high-impact teaching practices, continuous improvement and ensuring every student has access to quality learning experiences. She has successfully led whole-school initiatives in literacy and numeracy, developed effective transition programs and implemented wellbeing frameworks that strengthen student resilience and engagement. As the coordinator of our Learning and Support programs, Mrs Witchard is dedicated to ensuring that every student receives the personalised support they need to thrive both academically and personally.

Assistant Principal - Victoria Kirkness

Mrs Kirkness is a dedicated early years educator and Assistant Principal with a strong passion for establishing a solid foundation in the first years of school. She is an expert in phonics and early literacy, ensuring every child develops the essential skills and confidence needed to thrive as lifelong learners. Mrs Kirkness believes that the early years set the tone for a child’s love of learning and takes pride in creating classrooms filled with curiosity, creativity, and joy.

Assistant Principal - Emma Burnard

Ms Burnard is a compassionate educator who places student wellbeing at the heart of everything she does. She believes that learning flourishes when children feel safe, supported and valued, and she is dedicated to creating calm and caring classroom environments where every student can shine. Ms Burnard leads by example, guiding those around her towards greater emotional awareness and social connection. Her warmth, empathy and positivity make her the caring heart of any classroom she enters.

Assistant Principal - Rebecca Batoua

Ms Batoua is a passionate and dedicated educator who values diversity and inclusion in every aspect of school life. As one of our school Anti-Racism Contact Officers, she is committed to fostering understanding, respect and equity across the community. She has a special interest in Aboriginal education and enjoys creating meaningful learning experiences that connect students with Country and culture. A strong advocate for outdoor learning, Ms Batoua believes nature offers endless opportunities for curiosity, growth and wellbeing.

Assistant Principal - Roschelle Morwood

Mrs Morwood has over a decade of experience in education. She has held diverse roles in classroom teaching, librarianship, student support and leadership. Mrs Morwood is passionate about creating dynamic and inclusive learning environments where students can explore their potential and achieve success. She has a special interest in technology, coding and robotics and loves inspiring curiosity and creativity. Mrs Morwood has a passion for High Potential and Gifted education and is looking forward to leading our school to our first Tournament of Minds in 2026!

Assistant Principal Curriculum & Instruction - Mrs Belinda Liston

Belinda is a highly-experienced educational leader currently serving as Assistant Principal – Curriculum & Instruction at Box Hill Public School. In this role she oversees the design, implementation and continuous improvement of the school’s learning programs, ensuring high-quality teaching and learning across all year levels. With more than two decades of expertise in NSW public education, Belinda brings deep knowledge of curriculum frameworks, instructional practices, teacher development and student achievement strategies.