Trevor Bly
Secondary Visual Art Technician, Merici House

Commencing at the College in 2017, Trevor Bly brings a wealth of knowledge to his role of Visual Art Technician. With over 15 years of industry experience, Trevor is a practising artist who has exhibited artworks and run workshops throughout Western Australia. This holidays you can find him working with the Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA), offering a Screen Printing workshop for secondary students.

From set painting for our College productions, in-class assistance, supporting students at both internal and external exhibitions, and running extra-curricular programs, he is a valuable member of our Arts team and College community.

What extra-curricular activities have you been involved in?

I have run the graffiti art program – we have painted several on-site murals, including three sides of the shed at the rear of the James Nestor Auditorium, as well as the bus stop out the front of the hard courts on Dean Road.

I also attended the 2018 and 2021 Visual Art Tours.

The 2018 Melbourne Tour involved a three-day drawing workshop at the Victorian College of the Arts, soaking up the culture of Melbourne, visiting many galleries, and giving the students an opportunity to leave their mark on the city with a street art mural in Hoiser Lane.

The 2021 Wheatbelt Tour was six days centred around the state’s biggest mural project: the large-scale FORM public mural art silo trail. The roundtrip showcased the West Australian narrative and allowed students to develop a body of work in response to the striking scenery – ‘outcomes-based making’ in site-specific locations.

To sign up for the AGWA workshop on 14 July visit the link below:

Linda MacDonald
Head of Languages, Romero House

Having joined the College in 2020, Linda MacDonald works as the Head of the Languages Department.

Raised in a family where professions that serve the community were encouraged, especially in education and health, Linda explained that she would “play schools" and dreamed of becoming a teacher when she was a child.

Fast forward to today, we now see that she was able to combine her thirst for learning with her command of multiple languages to make that dream come true!

Tell us about a group or club you have been involved in?

Languages Club is a great way for students to come together for activities that we may not have time for in the classroom.

We cook, listen to music, dance, create art/craft, virtually "travel" and more! Students can also attend sessions for languages that they are not currently studying at AvÐÔ°®, so there are opportunities to learn about other languages and cultures.

What is your favourite College event and why? 

Languages Week! It is a time for the Languages Learning Area to showcase what we are about and to give staff and students opportunities to get involved in language, culture and to have fun. 

What is something that others may not know about you?

After graduating and working as as a teacher for a few years, I decided to try something new and started studying law.

Part way through my degree I realised that whilst I was enjoying studying, I didn't actually want to work as a lawyer. I'm glad that I did challenge myself though and I believe the experience helped me to grow as a person and made me a better teacher.

Do you have any hobbies?

I pick up new hobbies all the time! Currently, my hobbies are Wordle, watching animé, and learning Ballet as an adult. Tennis and board games are old favourites and every now and then, I pick up my guitar and try and remember how to play. (Usually not very well!)

Learning languages continues to be both a hobby as well as a professional pursuit for me. I speak Italian, French, Portuguese and have recently become inspired to start learning Japanese. Learning a new language can be challenging but it is worth it and definitely something I would encourage everyone to do.

Stephen Kingwell
Head of Year 7, Romero House

Newly appointed Head of Year 7 for 2022, Stephen Kingwell is someone who has always enjoyed reaching out and helping others.

His teaching journey has given him the opportunity to educate students in the areas of his two great passions; music and physical education.

In addition to teaching Physical Education, his most recent roles at the College have included the Head of Year 8 and Romero House Coordinator, with the latter seeing him travel to the Vatican for the canonisation of Romero House patron, St Oscar Romero.

Known for his enthusiastic performances and hosting duties on AvÐÔ°® Christi Day, his many years here have also seen him work with a variety of extra-curricular groups, from College football and basketball teams to the Soul and Folk Bands.

Having begun teaching at AvÐÔ°® in 2007, he has enjoyed both being a part of the AvÐÔ°® family, as well as seeing the smiles on students faces when they achieve their best after pushing the boundaries of their comfort zones and challenging themselves.

What is something others may not know about you?

Before teaching I worked many jobs; however, the most interesting one was working in Carnarvon for the Department of Sport and Recreation constructing and running holiday programs for community members.

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

The main reason for me becoming a teacher was to learn the skills to give me an opportunity to be the best father I could be. My dad in my eyes is the best there is and I wanted to learn as much about myself and the young people I work with so I could impart these skills learned into my own life.

What do you love most about working at AvÐÔ°®?

In my university days, I used to work at a supermarket and would dread getting in my car to drive to work. It was not an enjoyable job. From that point on, I began using that feeling of dread as the barometer for personal job satisfaction. Since starting at AvÐÔ°® however, I have not once felt apprehensive about work, and am very blessed to have a job I enjoy. I enjoy being here because the people at AvÐÔ°®, both youthful and experienced, are good people.

Claire Hall
Head of Science, Xavier House

Originally from Glasgow and having lived throughout the UK and Europe, Mrs Hall joined AvÐÔ°® in 2018 and now works as the Head of Science at the College. Before becoming a teacher, she worked in the industry as a medical sales representative for 2 years after completing University. However, she quickly realised that although it was a very good job, she wanted to utilise her experience in the science field and share her knowledge with others.

She loves the community feel of AvÐÔ°®, and says it is great that there are so many opportunities to get involved in the school in other ways than just teaching in the classroom, having also been involved in retreats, science club, fitness club and running club.

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I wanted to use my science background more and share my love of finding out the 'why and how' things work in a teaching capacity. What I love is seeing the moment a student understands the reasons why something happens.

What is something that others may not know about you?

When I was at school, like most students I didn't have a clue what career I wanted! I didn't know whether to go into Art or Science. My Art teacher desperately wanted me to pursue a career in Art but at the time I enjoyed learning all about Biology and Chemistry. I now have the best of both worlds, I teach Science and have Art as a hobby.

What inspires you?

Travel has been one of the biggest motivational and inspirational achievements of my life. Some of these include being lucky enough to swim in the base of highest waterfall in the world, trek in the Amazon rainforest, live and work in Barcelona and have to learn to speak Spanish. My love of visiting other countries and cultures continues to inspire me to want to learn more about the world I live in and how I can educate others in sustainability for future generations to continue to enjoy all the ecosystems have to offer.

Luisa Rossi
College Psychologist, Salvado House

Passionate about the science of positive psychology and its implementation in schools to better aid students, Luisa Rossi has been College Psychologist here at AvÐÔ°® since 2015. A AvÐÔ°® Christi College alumnus herself, having graduated in 1992, she now works to ensure students learn skills to manage their own wellbeing in their lives. She also finds joy in sharing knowledge with parents and teachers to better support students throughout their unique journeys through AvÐÔ°®. One of her highlights, she tells us, is attending the Mulan Immersion trip in 2016 to a remote Aboriginal community, together with students and staff.

What does a day at AvÐÔ°® look like for you?

My day is usually a mix of appointments with students, parents and teachers. I see students for counselling for a wide range of issues and sometimes conduct assessments to identify any learning difficulties. I also work with parents and staff to ensure students are well supported while they are at AvÐÔ°®.

What is your favourite College event and why?

The Talent Quest on AvÐÔ°® Christi Day! Every year I am blown away by the talent of our students. I love watching them step out of their comfort zone and performing in front of the whole school. Not only do I admire their talent, but also their bravery. I wish I had that courage when I was in high school.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work?

I love heading to the beach whenever I can. I enjoy surfing, riding my Vespa and socialising with friends - going out for breakfasts, lunches, dinners and nights out dancing. I regularly practice yoga and meditation to keep my own mental health in check. I also love spending time with my kids, listening to music and playing the guitar.

For more information on the psychology services that our school has to offer, visit:  

PATRICK WOOLLEY
Head of Year 7, Xavier House

Head of Year 7 Mr Patrick Woolley has already made his mark at the College since joining us at the start of the year, with his experience in Year 7 transition programs ensuring our newest cohort are well supported as they embark on their secondary school journey. 

Patrick was an avid sportsman and coach while studying Environmental Science at university, and he realised after completing his degree that the aspects he enjoyed about sports – how it brings people together and challenges them – were calling on him to help people realise what they could achieve when their own ‘boundaries’ were removed and they had passion for what they were doing. 

Patrick has fully embraced College life, as a regular member of Running Club and with his favourite event so far being AvÐÔ°® Christi Day.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT CORPUS?

There are so many aspects to love about AvÐÔ°®, the students and the range of skills and talents they bring on a daily basis, the welcoming staff and passion that exists in every corner of the College and lastly the facilities.

WHAT IS SOMETHING OTHERS MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU?

Sport and exercise are my escape, my meditation and my calming mechanism. I have always been a passionate Sportsman enjoying all sports and even competing in anything endurance. I spent 7 years living in the UK travelling Europe and racing Triathlon events, I have competed in 8 Ironman events and too many half ironman events to count. I have also run my own business Coaching Endurance Athletes to achieve their own goals in various events and love nothing more than seeing progress and a change in belief that sport can create for someone.

HOW DO YOU LIKE OT SPEND YOUR TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I love spending time with my family, my kids and extended family. We have a busy house with a little boy and twin baby girls, it is definitely ‘a circus’ but one I wouldn’t change for anything.

MR JOSHUA PAULEY
House Coordinator & Maths Teacher, Xavier House

Xavier House Coordinator Josh Pauley is one of our favourite men in black! The Mathematics teacher joined the College in Term 3, 2018 and has been an active part of College life both in and out of the classroom. When not coordinating House activities or teaching Maths, he can be found coaching the tennis team, Year 7 boys football, cricket or basketball. Josh became a teacher because he enjoys helping people improve and reach their personal best – we are lucky to have him here helping our students achieve their goals.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT CORPUS?

The smiles that staff and students always have. The hive of activity on a day to day basis makes for a fun working environment. The progression of students as they move through the years is cool to see.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLLEGE EVENT AND WHY?

Inter-house Athletics Carnival. It is always a fun day where everyone is striving for their best, although I’m looking forward to one that isn’t raining! Silent Groove at AvÐÔ°® Christi Day is a close second.

WHAT IS THE BEST HOLIDAY YOU’VE BEEN ON?

It’s a tie between my honeymoon to Sri Lanka and a boys snowboarding trip to Austria. How good was it when we could still travel?

MR ANDRE PAPINEAU
Maths Teacher, Pallotti House

Celebrating the big 4-0!

Mathematics Teacher Andre Papineau was recently honoured at Catholic Education WA’s annual breakfast for staff who have completed 30, 40 or 50 years of service in the Catholic education system. After teaching at various schools, Andre commenced at AvÐÔ°® in 1987 and has been part of our journey ever since.

During his time here Andre has contributed to College life in innumerable ways, including several years as a Head of Year and coordinating various extra-curricular activities. Much loved by current staff and students as well as our alumni, Andre’s enduring enthusiasm and positivity for the teaching profession has touched the lives of many in our community.

Thank you, Andre, for your continuing contribution to Catholic Education in Western Australia!

WHY DID YOU BECOME A TEACHER?

I love communicating knowledge, encouraging student learning, being involved in developing student potential and skills. Many of my family are or were teachers.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT CORPUS?

The students - welcoming, challenging, questioning, seeking answers, creativeness. Also, having a close relationship with many of my colleagues.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I have a love of learning foreign languages, reading, and travelling to experience other cultures.

MR MICHAEL ROYALL
House Coordinator and English Teacher, Salvado House

Salvado House Coordinator Mr Michael Royall is a true all-rounder, supporting students in a wide range of College activities. The AvÐÔ°® alum (Class of 2007) returned to the College in 2017 as an English Teacher and quickly made his mark. Since taking the helm of Salvado in Term 4, 2018 he has coordinated student involvement in numerous House events, including Salvado’s impressive Swimming Carnival win in 2019. Mr Royall is involved in Running Club, ACC Cross Country and SASJ Basketball for Years 8/9. Off the sporting field, he assists with Year 10 Public Speaking and has also contributed to staff podcasts. Mr Royall answered a last-minute call-up to help out on the 2018 Melbourne Dance Tour, where he gave his all to ensure students had the best time possible despite not being a Dance teacher. Whether it’s Melbourne’s public transport network, the English curriculum or Sport, students can rest assured Mr Royall will guide them in the right direction.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A TEACHER?

I ask myself that same question every day… Kidding! I became a teacher when I realised my Journalism and Creative Writing degree wasn’t going to get me very far. It’s the best choice I have made too, because I absolutely love this profession!

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT CORPUS?

The students! I love having discussions and a bit of a joke around with them.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLLEGE EVENT?

AvÐÔ°® Christi Day, mainly because it gives me a chance to wander around aimlessly consuming any food in sight while giving money to a very worthy cause. The best part of AvÐÔ°® Christi Day is easily the Talent Quest. Seeing the College community come together to celebrate the talent of our amazing students is always great fun!

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?

Running and listening to records while reading a good book.  

NAOMI LARSEN
Head of Health and Physical Education, Xavier House

When it comes to building a strong sense of community, Head of Health and Physical Education Ms Naomi Larsen is a trusted team player. The AvÐÔ°® alum (Class of 1993) returned to the College in 2015 as a PE teacher and Head of Year, and since then has been involved in all facets of College life. She has helped coordinate numerous events in her capacity as a Head of Year, from the Year 7 Quest Retreat to the Year 9 Personal Project to the Year 12 Ball. She coaches Netball, Touch, Basketball, ACC Athletics and ACC Swimming, and was part of the successful 2019 Gold Coast Netball Tour. Whether it’s positive education or health & wellbeing, Naomi is here to work with students and staff to ensure our minds and bodies are in good shape for the road ahead.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A TEACHER?

A love for learning and a desire to share that with others influenced my decision to become a teacher. This, as well as supporting students to recognise their own passions, strengths and talents enabling them to achieve and succeed is one aspect of teaching I really enjoy.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT CORPUS?

The strong sense of community and ‘team’ culture that is shared among students and staff.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLLEGE EVENT?

College events such as AvÐÔ°® Christi Day, Retreats and Immersion programs are my favourite. They provide students and staff the opportunity to develop respectful relationships and positively contribute to the community.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS STARTING AT CORPUS?

Get involved! Take advantage of the many opportunities available at the College, there is something for everyone.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I love catching up and spending time with my family and friends!

WILLIAM O'CALLAGHAN
Science Teacher, MacKillop House

Science teacher Mr O’Callaghan has been a member of the AvÐÔ°® teaching staff since 2003. As well as being an active member of Chisholm house, Mr O’Callaghan is the current coordinator of the Excelsis Club, which aims to promote and reward academic excellence in the Senior School. Mr O’Callaghan decided to be a teacher after some soul searching. Since then, his commitment to education has benefited the lives of countless students, especially those who have been able to reach their desired ATAR through achieving excellent scores in ATAR Physics. He greatly admires renowned Scottish physicist James Clerk Maxwell (1831-1879), who once said ‘I have looked into most philosophical systems and I have seen that none will work without God.’

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT CORPUS?

I love everything about working at AvÐÔ°®. I feel like I’m part of a caring, nurturing team. The students are wonderful and their curiosity and eagerness to learn invigorates me.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLLEGE EVENT? WHY?

Mass at the end and beginning of each year. It just seems like the right way to start and finish, sharing the Eucharist with colleagues and friends.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I read up on new developments in the field of Physics. I like to stay abreast of break edge discoveries and learn new things.

CAROLINE STEVENSON
Teacher in Charge of Dance, Romero House

Mrs Stevenson joined AvÐÔ°® Christi College in Term 2 of 2018. She completed her professional dance training at the Australian Ballet School and has performed professionally with the Australian Youth Ballet Company, Australian Ballet Company and Remnant Dance Collective. She has toured extensively as a dancer, teacher, choreographer, examiner and adjudicator nationally and internationally. At AvÐÔ°®, Mrs Stevenson is an enthusiastic cheerleader for Romero House and has choreographed numerous dances that have been performed at masses, assemblies, Dance Galas, the Catholic Performing Arts Festival and most notably, the 2019 College production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

WHY DID YOU BECOME A TEACHER?

I have been teaching for a long time but not in a school context so becoming a secondary school teacher seemed like a natural transition. Some of my friends have asked me why teach in a school as opposed to a dance studio and my answer is two-fold: Unfortunately, there are still a lot of schools who have non-specialist teachers teaching dance and I wanted to give students studying curriculum dance the same opportunity of learning from an experienced dancer and teacher as students in studios. I also feel that in school we are creating dance artists as opposed to merely dance technicians. If a young person wants to have a future dance career, it is important that they are thinking dancers who understand the history and mechanics of dance and can create and are not just dancing robots.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE DANCE STYLE?

Ballet is definitely my first love. It is one of the most demanding forms of physical activity and yet ballet dancers make it look so effortless. You won’t hear any grunting from effort coming from a dancer!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLLEGE EVENT? WHY?

Every event that involves dance of course! Seriously though, I think my favourite College event would be AvÐÔ°® Christi Day which is a day the students and teachers can interact in a more relaxed and fun way. The talent show towards the end of the day is always good fun.

FUN FACT ABOUT YOURSELF?

I have pulled a shark out of the ocean with my bare hands. I have met and danced for the Queen. I can also play the bass (very badly).

JAMES DOVE
Head of Arts, Merici House

Mr Dove joined AvÐÔ°® Christi College as our Head of Arts in 2013 and has been a driving force ever since. Overseeing a Learning Area that encompasses the various Arts disciplines – performing and visual – he works with a dedicated team of staff to offer students a dynamic learning environment where their talents can be nurtured. His approach as an Apple Distinguished Educator is forward-thinking, and he truly understands the courage required to embrace one’s creativity, having acted for many years in professional theatre and TV in England before becoming an educator. Mr Dove also helped consult on the design of our new theatre and refreshed facilities, ensuring all students can benefit from these spaces. As the saying goes, ‘All the world’s a stage’ – if in doubt, ask Mr Dove for direction!

WHY DID YOU BECOME A TEACHER?

My journey was an interesting one. I was a professional actor in England for five years – mostly professional theatre and TV. With every event I tended to get asked to lead professional PD or Education programs. So I took the risk and attended the Central School of Speech and Drama and became a teacher of Drama. To answer the question: I have a strong belief that everyone has a talent and a place in cultural and spiritual development. The more we connect to each other, the greater our spirit grows. Being creative takes real courage. So for me teaching was a real extension of why I went into the Arts in the first place.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLLEGE EVENT? WHY?

I think all College Arts events each have their own quality. We work extremely hard to ensure that each event reaches their perspective outcomes. But if pushed, my favourite has to be the Interhouse Play. I love the fact that it is student led and such a great vehicle for finding untapped talent.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT CORPUS?

I work with an extremely high performing team. We are constantly trying new ideas out. I think we have worked out the balance between pastoral and learning outcomes really well. We honestly try to ‘ignite’ every spirit – not always easy, but a real reward when we see the results.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK?

With my family first and foremost, and second, DJ’ing for RTRFM on Soulsides and Rock, Rattle & Roll. I am also on the board of DramaWest.

FUN FACT ABOUT YOURSELF?

I support Norwich City...Yeah, they are at the bottom of the premiership!

CHRIS CARBONE
Property Manager, MacKillop House

Ever wondered what it takes to keep the College grounds and facilities in working order? Property Manager Chris Carbone has been with the College since 2013. Every day, Chris and his dedicated team busily ensure the College is a tidy and welcoming learning environment for our students. His assistance is key to the success of our capital development and improvement projects. He is a member of Mackillop House, and through his interests outside of work is a shining example of how the people of AvÐÔ°® give back to the community-at-large.

WHAT DOES A DAY AT CORPUS LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?
Busy cleaning the school and ensuring that the school is safe for the students and set up, ready for events.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT CORPUS?
Making the grounds look good.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK?
Outside of work I foster children for the Department for Child Protection and also look after injured wildlife.

SALLY FARRINGTON
AvÐÔ°®us Dean, Pallotti House

Ms Farrington has been with the College since 1993 and in that time has undertaken many different roles, including Head of House, Head of Science, Head of Year and most recently AvÐÔ°®us Dean. Some of her key contributions to College life include: working with Student Leaders; being involved with soccer, tennis and football; travelling to India and Cambodia on Immersions, and establishing the Excelsis Club.

WHY DID YOU BECOME A TEACHER?
I come from a family of teachers. Initially I didn't study to be a teacher but realised the best part of my previous work was presenting and teaching others, so I went back and completed my Dip Ed.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLLEGE EVENT? WHY?
I really enjoy the graduation of our Year 12 class each year - it is great to celebrate the completion of a journey with both the students, their families and the staff of the College. We welcome students in when they join the College and have the privilege of watching them develop into valued filled, fine young men and women.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE QUOTE?
"Everybody has something good inside them. Some hide it, some neglect it, but it is there." Mother Teresa

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK?
I love going to different places in the world and discovering how people do things differently.