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Meet our Executive Principal & Director

Michelle Cairelli

Young Parents Executive Principal

Passion and Purpose is why I love my role as Principal

Great results, attractive and flexible spaces, up to date technology and best practice based on current academic research are important to us; but more important than that, is unlocking the unique God-given potential in every child to lead a life of passion and purpose in whatever pursuits they choose. The teachers in our College embrace this wholeheartedly. Book a tour of the College and you will see this in action. It delights me to walk around the College and see children of all ages positively engaged in their learning in so many different ways. Our best asset: passionate and purposeful teachers who are trained to consider the individual learning and wellbeing needs of every child in their class.

Our Core Values: Christ First, Serve One Another, Strive for Excellence, Do What is Right and Build Community, are integral to our College. They are incorporated into every learning, pastoral, community and cocurricular activity. These values are vital in creating an innovative, relevant and dynamic College that has our children's future as its focus.

My passion and purpose is to truly lead children on a life long journey to discover their own passion and purpose. Come and see for yourself what this looks like in action.

Mrs Michelle Cairelli
Executive Principal

Amanda McInnes

Young Parents College Director

My name is Amanda McInnes, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the St Philip's Christian College Young Parents teams at Newcastle & the Central Coast.

I am married with three adult daughters, and love spending time with my family.

I have many years of experience as an English teacher, teaching at various schools.

I have worked at Young Parents College at Newcastle since 2005, firstly as a Teacher, and then in the role of Head of Campus. At the end of 2023 I took on the role of Director of both Newcastle & the Central Coast campuses. Throughout that time, I have seen many changes, and have worked with a great many amazing young people as they continue their Education through pregnancy and parenthood.

In 2018, I completed a Master of Leadership and Management in Education. I love to learn and to continue to develop my professional skills. I am particularly interested in curriculum development, and in creative ways of engaging young people with their learning. I believe that the educational needs of young parents are unique, and that the curriculum should be accessible to all.

At Young Parents College, you will find an experience that is different to anything that you may have experienced in a mainstream school setting. We have an amazing staff, and a caring and welcoming environment.

If you are interested in coming to have a look, we would love to meet you.

Amanda McInnes
Young Parents College Director