Our teachers 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.
Principal's message
Leading John Hunter Hospital School is both a privilege and a profound responsibility. I am committed to maintaining a nurturing, innovative, and inclusive environment where every student can flourish despite the challenges they face.
I am honored to lead a dedicated team of professionals who are deeply committed to our students’ success. Our staff works tirelessly to ensure every student feels valued, personally known, and supported, fostering a strong sense of belonging and safety within the school community.
Furthermore, I pride myself on fostering and maintaining open, collaborative communication with our colleagues in NSW Health. This partnership is essential for coordinating comprehensive care and educational support that meets the complex needs of our students.
Together, we strive to provide the best possible educational and health outcomes, ensuring that each young person's time at John Hunter Hospital School is positive, productive, and empowering.
Amy Kurtz, Principal of John Hunter Hospital 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.
Brianne Balfoort
Assistant Principal Learning & Wellbeing
I am passionate about John Hunter Hospital School because it enables me to foster meaningful collaboration between staff, the broader community, health teams, and families to achieve the best possible outcomes for each child. Drawing on my diverse background spanning mainstream comprehensive high schools and inclusive education settings, I infuse creativity and a sense of possibility into our programs. I firmly believe that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. By tailoring individualised support services, I strive to meet the unique needs of every student, helping them to thrive during their time at our school and beyond.
Georgia Scheffers
Assistant Principal Curriculum and Instruction
I love working at John Hunter Hospital School because I get to meet lots of young people and families from all over the Hunter New England Local Health District. Helping young people access education and stay engaged when they are in hospital, as well as helping them with their transition back to their census school, is one of my favourite parts of the role. As a teacher at John Hunter Hospital School, I learn something new every day, whether that be from a young person or from the awesome clinical and nursing teams that we get the privilege of working with.
Elke Ryssenbeek
Head Teacher Teaching & Learning
For ten years I worked for the NSW Department of Education across special education , wellbeing, behaviour and youth mental health. I was unsure of where my career would take me, and if there was a role where I could best utilise my skills and experiences. Then I found the John Hunter Hospital School and the incredibly enthusiastic and accomplished team of dedicated education staff. It is a privilege and a joy to work in such a truly unique and exceptional setting. Whether it is supporting a young person with their census schoolwork, sharing knowledge through varied and individually tailored lessons, an informal chat with a parent or laugh with a young person, these interactions provide learning opportunities and a connection. We may only meet a young person once yet once is enough to make a positive difference.
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.
Jasmyn Blythe
Teacher
I am passionate about working at John Hunter Hospital School, where I have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students experiencing illness or trauma. As a beginning teacher, I am grateful to support these students by helping them stay connected to their education while also nurturing their social and emotional wellbeing. It’s a quiet privilege to be the only non-medical part of their day, offering moments of continuity and often a much-needed smile. Working with students from Kindergarten to Year 12 continues to deepen my practice and strengthens my ability to respond thoughtfully to a diverse range of individual needs.
Catherine Crowley
Teacher
My passion for the Arts drives me to create learning experiences where students can explore their creativity, build resilience, and find their voice. I value the opportunity to help students embrace challenges as stepping stones rather than setbacks, nurturing confidence through the principles of “yes and” and “accepting failure.” I am dedicated to creating environments where students thrive, with laughter, curiosity, and imagination at the heart of learning. My commitment to Aboriginal Education and Closing the Gap also inspires me to recognise and celebrate each student’s story, ensuring their culture and potential are valued throughout their learning journey.
Niki Murrell
Teacher
With 16 years of experience in the NSW Department of Education, I’m passionate about working at John Hunter Hospital School because it combines two things I love supporting students/families and thinking outside the box. Much like a day at the beach, no two days or lessons are ever the same, and I enjoy the challenge of creating learning that’s flexible, engaging, and meaningful, even in unique circumstances. I love helping our students and their families feel a sense of normalcy, while being part of a team that follows the curriculum and makes it fun, engaging, and accessible for all learners bringing curiosity, creativity, and even a few well-timed laughs into the learning environment.
Leisa Swanson
Teacher
I am passionate about working at John Hunter Hospital School as I love working with students from all walks of life as it is incredibly inspiring. Each one brings their own story, strength, and challenges—and being part of their journey, even in a small way, is a true privilege. Supporting them emotionally, mentally, and physically reminds me daily of the power of compassion, resilience, and the difference we can make just by showing up and caring.
Abbie Goodbun
Teacher
I am truly passionate about my role at John Hunter Hospital School because it gives me the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people who are facing tough challenges. Every day, I get to be a source of support, positivity, and comfort, helping them through difficult moments. The moments when I can bring a smile to their face and help brighten their day are the most rewarding, and it's a privilege to be part of their journey toward healing and growth.
Allanna McBay
Teacher
Our support staff
Our support staff guide student learning needs, support curriculum delivery, student wellbeing and inclusion. They work with teachers to make personalised adjustments. This means each child can take part fully in school life.
Karyn Huizing
Student Learning Support Officer
I bring a deep commitment to supporting the wellbeing and education of young people. My passion for working at John Hunter Hospital School stems from the unique opportunity it provides to care for students during challenging times and help enhance their social and educational development. I value the diversity of every young person I work with and take great pride in contributing to their learning journey and overall welfare. With over 35 years experience as a School Learning Support Officer, I continue to embrace every day in my position and look forward to every moment as part of such a dynamic team.
Maree Foster
Student Learning Support Officer
Sally Standley
Student Learning Support Officer
Working at John Hunter Hospital School is more than a job, it's an honour. Every day, I have the privilege of supporting students from all walks of life, each bringing their own unique story, strength, and set of challenges. Being even a small part of their journey is profoundly inspiring. I strive to support them emotionally, mentally, and physically, and in doing so, I’m constantly reminded of the power of compassion, resilience, and human connection. My dedication is simple but meaningful: to create a smile each day and to make a positive difference, no matter how small, in a young person's world.
Shanai Tucker
Student Learning Support Officer / WHS Officer
I am passionate about working at John Hunter Hospital School because it provides a unique opportunity to support young people during some of their most vulnerable moments, prioritising their wellbeing and holistic development. Collaborating with a dynamic team and allied health professionals allows for a multidisciplinary approach that enriches the support we offer. I am committed to creating positive, engaging experiences for students that offer a meaningful break from clinical environments, while embracing and respecting the diverse backgrounds of the young people we serve. This role enables me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students when they need it most.
Olly Yates
Student Learning Support Officer / I.T Support
I’m proud to be part of the team at John Hunter Hospital School, where we collaborate closely with multidisciplinary health professionals to support the mental health, wellbeing, and education of young people. We provide individualised support that helps students stay connected to their school or explore future academic and career pathways. It’s a privilege to contribute to an inclusive environment where every young person feels safe, respected, and supported. I am continually inspired by their resilience and grateful to be part of their journey toward personal and academic growth.
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 office on the J2 Ward.
Leanne Kennedy
School Administrative Manager
I am passionate about working at John Hunter Hospital School as I am committed to helping maintain a welcoming and organised environment that promotes learning and well-being for all students during what can be a challenging time for the student and family. Additionally, I am committed to managing student records and communication with census schools, teachers, healthcare professionals and families to ensure smooth operations to support both medical and educational needs whilst maintaining compliance with education standards and fostering a supportive and flexible learning environment.
Karen Lowe
School Administrative Officer
I am passionate about working at John Hunter Hospital School because it allows me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people facing challenging circumstances. Supporting students to maintain their educational continuity and stay connected with their peers and schools ensures they are not disadvantaged during their time in hospital. I truly value being part of a dynamic and caring team that genuinely prioritises both the wellbeing and learning success of children in hospital. This role aligns perfectly with my strengths, skills, and commitment to supporting our community, and I feel privileged to play a part.