Board Welcome
The board would like to officially welcome you and your family to Hensman Street Elementary, and thank you for choosing us for what in many cases will be your child’s first experience in a school environment. Underpinned by STEAM learning subjects, we strive to create a dynamic yet age appropriate learning environment filled with fun and inspiration that will set your child on a path of lifelong learning.
Our board is made up of volunteers from a range of industries – most of whom joined because their children were attending Hensman Street, but all of whom are on the board because they share a passion for creating an exceptional early childhood learning environment.
We trust that you and your family enjoy your time at Hensman Street, and please don’t hesitate to get involved along the way wherever you can.
Chair
vice-Chair
current Board Members
Pauline Roberts
Dr. Pauline Roberts, a Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies at Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Perth, Western Australia, boasts extensive teaching experience across Early Childhood, Primary, and Tertiary levels, including subjects like early years Science and STEM. In her current role at ECU, she empowers pre-service and in-service teachers to expand their knowledge, enhance skills, and advocate for children and families in diverse educational contexts.
Megan Philips
Meet a retired Primary School Principal with a strong passion for education, spurred on by their grandchildren in WA and NSW. They are particularly interested in creating inclusive educational opportunities for children with diverse learning needs, from the exceptionally bright to those requiring extra support, ensuring every child can reach their full potential.
principal
Tanya Steers
Tanya assumed the role of Principal at Hensman Street in 2020 after a decade of dedicated service at HSE. With a strong background in science and a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education, she is passionate about advancing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education in early childhood. Tanya also currently holds the position of Chairperson for Early Childhood Australia's WA State Committee and is actively pursuing her Masters of Education.
Deputy principal
Christy-Lee Antonas
Christy-Lee is an accomplished early childhood educator with over two decades of experience. Her profound passion lies in nature pedagogy, STEM education, and forging strong connections with young learners. She views the world through a lens of curiosity and awe for the natural environment and is dedicated to bringing the outdoors into the classroom to inspire both children and educators alike. Christy-Lee places great importance on trust and meaningful relationships, creating a secure and nurturing space where children are valued, heard, and empowered to express themselves. Currently serving as Deputy Principal, her extensive teaching experience continues to enrich early childhood education.
treasurer
Natalie Muirhead
Natalie is a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years in public practice and extensive experience in insolvency, accounting, tax, super and audit.
secretary
Madeleine Dobson
Dr Madeleine Dobson is a Senior Lecturer of Early Childhood Education & Care at Curtin University. Her research focuses on trauma-informed and caring pedagogies, play-based learning, nature connectedness, and education for social justice. Madeleine is also involved in community engagement initiatives, including projects relating to play advocacy and play-based activations for young children and families. it.
General Board Member
Melissa Trengove
General Board Member
Ammar Mohammad
General Board Member
Mark Stewart