Michelle Cairelli
Young Parents Executive Principal
I’m Michelle Cairelli, and it’s my absolute joy and privilege to serve as the Executive Principal of this extraordinary school community.
At SPCC Young Parents, we support young people who are parenting while completing their secondary education. Our students have had, or are expecting, a baby before the age of 20 - some as young as 13. Their journey is anything but ordinary, and every day, I’m inspired by their courage, resilience, and determination to build a better future for themselves and their children.
Our school is designed to meet students where they are. We offer flexible learning, compassionate support, and a full HSC pathway (non-ATAR, no exams) that opens doors to further education and employment. Many of our graduates are the first in their families to take that step - and it’s a moment worth celebrating.
What makes our school truly special is the heart behind it. Our teachers are not only highly skilled but deeply committed to walking alongside each student. We also have learning and wellbeing assistants, social workers, and a leadership program that empowers senior students to mentor and encourage their peers.
One of the values we hold close is tenacity - the quiet strength to keep going, even when life gets tough. Our students live this out every day. I often remind them that when they graduate, they’re not just receiving a certificate—they’re proving to themselves and the world that they can overcome incredible challenges and still achieve their goals.
We pray daily for our students and their families. Our hope is that every young parent who walks through our doors experiences the love of God, discovers their purpose, and knows that a bright future lies ahead - for them and for their children.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know us. It’s an honour to lead this community and witness the transformation that happens here every day.
With every blessing,
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 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