‘Effective teaching is the single most influential ‘in-school’ factor for creating an effective learning environment.’ Natalie Siegel-Brown, Productivity Commissioner.
At Yarra Valley Grammar, our teachers are valued, playing a vital role in shaping student success by focusing on four key areas: Relationships, Teaching Practice, Learning Environment, and Feedback. These elements define what teachers do every day to create an engaging and effective learning experience. Building strong relationships with students through approachability, kindness, and genuine care fosters motivation, engagement, and a willingness to learn. Our teachers prioritise positive connections, creating a sense of trust and belonging that enhances the overall classroom experience.
In addition to relationships, teachers ensure student success through effective teaching practices. This involves delivering knowledgeable, skillful, and clear instruction, supported by explicit guidance that helps students grasp new concepts with confidence. A well-structured learning environment is also essential, as teachers establish clear rules, consistent routines, and purposeful collaboration to maintain focus and readiness for learning. Finally, teachers provide effective feedback, ensuring that it is timely, specific, achievable, and affirming. This approach helps motivate students, recognise their progress, and guide them toward continued growth. By integrating these four areas into their daily practice, our teachers create a strong foundation for student achievement and lifelong learning.
Our teachers are deeply valued and recognise the profound impact they have on our students. Their dedication and passion are evident in their engagement with students, creating a positive and enriching experience at Yarra Valley Grammar.
Staff Biographies
ELC
Tamsin Turner
Qualifications
Graduate Diploma in Education (Early Childhood), RMIT
Commenced at YVG 2018 Position ELC Teacher (Kindergarten Three)
Biography
As an ELC teacher here at Yarra Valley Grammar, I find great joy in supporting young children to explore and learn through a play based program. Each child's sense of wonder, curiosity and delight as they engage with the world around them is truly inspiring. Each day brings new discoveries, laughter and meaningful moments. I am passionate about creating a warm, inclusive environment where every child and their family feels a genuine sense of belonging. By building strong relationships and encouraging open communication, I aim to support each child's journey to be a wonderful experience from their commencement with us.
Jacinda Hills
Qualifications
Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood) Melbourne University
Commenced at YVG 2010
Position ELC Teacher (Pre-Prep)
Biography
From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. Inspired by the many amazing and influential educators throughout my own schooling, I was drawn to the impact a teacher can have during the formative years. No two days in the Early Learning Centre are ever the same. Each day brings laughter, meaningful connections and moments of awe and discovery. I am passionate about fostering foundational skills and instilling a lifelong love of learning. Having worked at Yarra Valley for over 15 years, I endeavour to have a lasting impact on my students and witness the long term progression of their educational journey as they move through the school.
Junior School
Summa Routledge
Qualifications
Bachelor of Education, ACU
Commenced at YVG 2024
Position Junior Primary Coordinator, Prep Teacher
Biography
Being part of the Yarra community is an absolute joy. The warmth, diversity, and spirit that shine through make it such a special place to work. I am deeply committed to nurturing the whole child—emotionally, socially, and academically—so they can flourish in every aspect of their learning and life. In my classroom, students know they have a safe space to take risks, make mistakes, and grow with confidence. I encourage them to learn alongside one another, fostering relationships built on empathy, respect, and collaboration. Just as importantly, I value the strong partnerships formed with families and the wider community, knowing that together we create the foundation for every child to thrive. I feel truly grateful for the privilege of teaching at this wonderful school.
Simon Grant
Qualifications
Bachelor of Education Deakin University
Commenced at YVG 2022
Position Year 6 Classroom Teacher, Numeracy Coordinator, 1st Girls Basketball Coach
Biography
I am a passionate teacher who believes that strong relationships are the foundation for unlocking each student’s potential. By taking the time to know every learner, I create an environment where students feel safe, valued, and motivated to achieve their best. I place great importance on celebrating growth, fostering empathy, and encouraging gratitude, as these values help shape confident and compassionate learners. Storytelling and real-life experiences are central to my teaching style. I use them to spark curiosity, strengthen connections, and help students see the relevance of their learning beyond the classroom. My goal is to nurture not only academic achievement but also the social and emotional development of every student, ensuring they are prepared to succeed both in school and in life.
Madeline Clark
Qualifications
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Australian Catholic University
Commenced at YVG 2024
Position Year 4 Classroom Teacher
Biography
Teaching at Yarra Valley Grammar over the past two years has been an incredibly rewarding experience. As a graduate teacher, I am continually inspired by my passionate colleagues and the collaborative spirit that defines our school community. In my classroom, I strive to create an environment where every student feels valued, supported and empowered to learn. I firmly believe that fostering a love of learning begins with cultivating a sense of inclusion and belonging, because when students feel connected, their curiosity and potential can truly flourish. Being part of my students’ journeys and watching them learn, grow and discover each day is the most fulfilling aspect of my role as a teacher.
Matthew Williams
Qualifications
Bachelor of Education (Primary)
Commenced at YVG 2022
Position Year 5 Teacher
Biography
As someone who thrives in the company of cheerful people in a positive environment, there is no profession I would rather be doing than teaching—and no place I would rather do it than at Yarra Valley Grammar. I feel incredibly privileged to do what I do; with the students, staff, and wider community here making every day both uplifting and rewarding. In the classroom, I enjoy providing my students with engaging and challenging learning experiences and regularly remind them that while it is important to develop strong skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, my highest priorities are for them to simply be kind to others and strive for their personal best in everything they do.
Secondary School
Ashanie Perera
Qualifications
Masters of Teaching
Bachelor of Eng (Hons)
Bachelor of Science
Commenced at YVG 2020
Position Head of Mathematics
Biography
I joined the teaching profession a little later, after spending some time working as a Process Engineer. This career change was driven by a passion for education and a desire to support young people in their learning journey. I particularly enjoy seeing student growth and achievement, and helping students build confidence as they navigate the challenges of studying mathematics.
Beyond the classroom, I am committed to fostering a positive and collaborative culture, ensuring that students are well prepared not only for assessment but also for developing strong problem-solving skills that will serve them beyond school, and the study of the subject matter at hand.
Olivia Berry
Qualifications
Master of Education (Double Specialisation in Wellbeing / Leadership and Management), Melbourne University
Bachelor of Arts, Monash University
Bachelor of Education (Honours), Monash University
Commenced at YVG 2018
Position Year 9 Coordinator, English and Drama Teacher
Biography
Teaching at Yarra Valley Grammar has afforded me so many wonderful opportunities. From helping students manage their transition into secondary schooling to then celebrating their graduation year later, it has been so rewarding seeing these students grow and develop. As a Drama and English teacher, I embrace the creativity that comes with inquiry and curiosity. I am passionate about empowering students to sharpen their views and confidently express their opinions. This extends to assisting students outside of the classroom through the promotion of recognising their strengths and how they can best contribute to the positive culture of the School. One thing I love about working at Yarra is the friendliness and kindness we see every day in the incidental interactions we have with the students. It is a really fulfilling place to be.
Nicholas Harvey
Qualifications
Bachelor of Science (Pharmacology) (Hons)
Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary)
Commenced at YVG 2025
Position Science Teacher and Year 8 Tutor
Biography
I am passionate about animating the teaching of science and STEM for all students. I feel that getting to share the excitement of scientific ideas and thinking with my students is a privilege. I enjoy bringing abstract and complex ideas to life for my students to that they really understand and appreciate the world. I love watching students develop knowledge and skills over time and their enjoyment of learning. I value getting to know my students well, and the pastoral aspect of looking after the wellbeing of my students. In my role as a tutor, the strength of the relationships with my tute group allows me to help them develop their self-confidence and sense of belonging so that they can really flourish.
Paul Jefimenko
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Science
Master of Teaching (Secondary)
Commenced at YVG: 2023
Position: Mathematics and Physics Teacher and Plummer House Leader
Biography
Teaching at Yarra Valley Grammar provides me with the opportunity to work alongside dedicated, friendly colleagues and engaged students who are eager to learn and grow. I am passionate about sharing my interest in Mathematics and Physics, and I believe that the most lasting impact an educator can have is to inspire curiosity and a love of discovery in their students. To achieve this, I place great importance on building strong relationships that help students feel supported, valued, and confident in their learning journey. I am also privileged to serve as Plummer House Leader, a role that allows me to contribute meaningfully to students’ sense of connection and belonging, both of which are essential to the holistic educational experience I strive to provide at Yarra Valley Grammar.
