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

Henry Kendall High School is a vibrant public school on the Central Coast that believes strongly in student-centred learning and shared ownership. Our students are encouraged to take pride in their school and embrace the values of Belonging, Respect, Perseverance, and Curiosity.

We focus on “Personal Best” and our motto “Persevere,” teaching that success is about doing your best and learning from setbacks. Our vision is to inspire individuality, celebrate Public Education, and advocate for First Nations’ culture while promoting wellbeing and citizenship.

As a comprehensive school, we welcome students from all backgrounds equally, offering academic, cultural, sporting, and employment pathways. Students gain more than just results - they develop the resilience and understanding needed for life beyond school.

At Henry Kendall High School, every student is valued and encouraged to belong and succeed through active involvement and taking opportunities.

Mr A Backhouse

Principal - Andrew Backhouse

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 teaching staff

Your child’s school experience is shaped by the people around them. Our teachers bring experience, care and a passion for learning to every lesson. With a focus on success, they help every child reach their full potential.

Our teaching staff

Head Teachers

  • Applied Learning - Mrs M Woodland (Relieving)
  • Creative and Performing Arts - Mr J Walters
  • English - Mr B Wawrzyk
  • HSIE & Languages - Mr M Macdonald
  • Mathematics - Mr M Reece
  • PDHPE - Mr M Mellish
  • Science - Ms L Green
  • Special Education - Mr D Lawler (Relieving)
  • Student Services - Mrs T Hoole
  • Student Services - Miss C McLennan (Relieving)
  • TAS & VET - Mrs M Barrett

Year Advisers

  • Year 7 - Mr M Sheppard
  • Year 8 - Mrs J Kostalas
  • Year 9 - Mr M Hoole
  • Year 10 - Miss C Sanki
  • Year 11 - Mrs M Bailey
  • Year 12 - Mrs K Hogan

Careers Adviser

  • Mrs R Dekalb (Relieving)

Teacher Librarian

  • Ms S Klein

School Counsellors

  • Ms McCormack
  • Ms N Ross

Contact our school to learn about our teaching team

Our teachers make the difference

Teacher helping individual student

Committed to your child’s success

Our teachers ensure every student can thrive. They use proven ways to teach and tailor learning support for their students

Teacher in classroom

Expert, connected and accredited

Our teachers are part of a strong education network. They may hold advanced accreditation. This ensuring high-quality teaching for your child.

Student in Visual Arts

Teachers who never stop learning

Our teachers are lifelong learners. They stay current through regular training and keep improving how they teach students.

Teacher–family partnerships

Our teachers build trust through clear communication. Our families know that their child has support and is ready to learn.

Wellbeing and support staff

Our wellbeing and support staff guide student wellbeing, 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.

Our wellbeing and support staff
  • Student Services - Mrs T Hoole
  • Student Services - Miss C McLennan (Relieving)
  • Student Support Officer - Miss O Walton

Contact our school to learn about our wellbeing and support staff

Administrative and operations staff

Our administrative and operations staff keep our school running smoothly. They support students, teachers and families every day. You can find them in our front office or on the school grounds.

Our administrative and operations staff
  • Mrs J Coleman, Student Administrative Manager
  • Mr D Watkiss, Business Manager

Contact our school to learn about our administrative and operations staff

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

Student making a cappuccino

Additional learning support

Find out how we support students with disability or additional learning needs.

Student gardening in the Special Education Centre

Stories and highlights

Hear about stories, wins and proud moments from our staff and students.