New Teachers

Ms Monique Brame – Director of Curriculum and NESA Accreditation

I previously taught at The King’s School in Junior English and Stage 6 English Advanced and Extension 1. I have always been passionate about learning and helping others reach their full potential. Teaching was a natural career choice as it allows me to combine my love of literature and language with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives. I find great fulfilment in creating engaging learning experiences, fostering critical thinking and supporting students in developing their own voices. Ultimately, I was inspired by the teachers who challenged and supported me throughout my own education and I hope to do the same for the next generation of learners.

Throughout my teaching career, I have led the English Departments in three distinct school settings and overseen the curriculum as a Head of Curriculum in two schools. These roles have deepened my understanding of curriculum design and data-driven teaching practices, particularly through projects such as HSC data analysis and student growth tracking. Leadership courses have also strengthened my ability to mentor colleagues and foster collaborative learning environments.

These experiences have enhanced my ability to differentiate learning, support student progress and design engaging resources for diverse learners. I am passionate about empowering students to think critically and develop a love for literature approaching my teaching with a strategic and reflective mindset.

Outside of teaching, I am deeply passionate about the arts and creativity. I love immersing myself in reading, theatre, cinema and art, which not only inspire me personally but also enrich my teaching practice. Engaging with creative works allows me to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas into the classroom, helping students connect with texts and express their own creativity.

Mr Ji Lee – Mathematics teacher

Although I am new to teaching, what truly motivates me are the small moments of appreciation from my students. Some have stayed back after class to thank me and share with me that they are finally starting to enjoy and understand mathematics. Seeing their confidence grow and their progress build day by day is what I consider a real achievement. These small but meaningful moments remind me why I chose to teach and what I will continue to strive for throughout my career.

Growing up in a family of teachers, I was always surrounded by a love for teaching and learning. During the early years of high school my parents taught my friends and myself mathematics at home, making difficult concepts feel approachable and engaging. My brother, a primary school teacher, shared the joy of teaching students, which inspired me to follow this path and make a difference in the classroom.

Outside of teaching, I enjoy watching and playing sports like tennis, soccer/futsal, golf.

Ms Laura Cullen – HSIE teacher

From a young age, I always dreamed of becoming a teacher. The idea of contributing to students’ lives both academically and socially makes this profession extremely rewarding. When I was in school I had an inspirational teacher who had a passion for their subject which had a huge impact on my journey. Inspired by that teacher, I went to university to start my teaching journey.

Prior to journeying to Australia, I was teaching Geography at a small rural school in Ireland. In addition to my teaching duties, I also assisted students with additional educational needs by providing one-on-one support in various subjects. After moving to Australia, I continued my teaching career at Holy Spirit Catholic College in Lakemba where I taught HSIE.

In my previous school, I encountered students struggling with content. I gave up my free periods to help them prepare for exams and seeing them do well as a result reinforced to me the significant impact of additional support and hard work.

Outside of teaching, I have a passion for sports such as basketball and soccer and enjoy going for walks and listening to music.

Mr Jacob Siles – Mathematics teacher

Prior to Marist College Eastwood, I had the pleasure of teaching Mathematics at All Saints Catholic College in London where I had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of students. This experience not only honed my teaching skills but also deepened my understanding of different educational needs and cultural backgrounds.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my teaching career has been witnessing the development of my students. I strive to foster a love of learning and developing critical thinking skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

Outside of teaching I love listening to music.

Ms Lauren Sung – HSIE and Diverse Learning teacher

Although I only began teaching this year, I have already found teaching to be incredibly rewardinig. I have been thoroughly engaged and have enjoyed the experience in particular seeing the Year 7 students make new friends, adjust to school, learn new concepts and tackle hard tasks.

I had great teachers in high school who truly cared about their students and were passionate about education. Their dedication made learning fun and something I looked forward to. They inspired me to become a teacher believing in the power of education as a gift. To teach the next generation and make school a fun, safe space is both a privilege and a passion of mine.

Outside of school, I enjoy running, playing social sport and baking.

Mr Joshua Chasney – PDHPE teacher

Prior to my current role at Marist College Eastwood, I was working at Emmaus College in Rockhampton.

My journey into teaching was inspired by my experience at weight management camps in England and Qatar. Witnessing the transformative impact of sport and education on children’s lives motivated me to pursue a career in teaching.

Throughout my career, I have achieved several milestones. One of my proudest moments was leading my team to victory in the London Youth Games in Olympic Handball. I also had the honour of serving as a Head of Year during which I organised a memorable Rugby tour to Paris with my students.

Ms Katie Stern – PDHPE teacher

My Year 12 PDHPE teacher inspired me to pursue a career in teaching. Her unwavering support and dedication demonstrated the impact a teacher can have on a student’s growth and development. I aspire to offer the same encouragement and guidance to my students, creating an environment where they can flourish and become the best versions of themselves.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Secondary Education in Physical Education has significantly enhanced my knowledge and confidence in the classroom.

Outside of teaching, I enjoy staying active and exploring new places. I love playing netball, running and going to the gym. Travelling is another passion of mine as it allows me to experience different cultures and gain new perspectives, which I bring back to enrich my teaching practice.

Ms Annaliese Ahlgren – HSIE & Religion teacher

I have always been passionate about learning and sharing knowledge. I was inspired to become a teacher myself by my own teachers who were dedicated to helpiong their students and make learning engaging and meaninful. I too want to be that positive influence for others and help students discover their potential.

One of the most significant achievements in my teaching career to date was participating in a professional development program focused on innovative teaching methods. This experience allowed me to connect with educators from various backgrounds, sharing ideas and learning about different approaches to teaching. It broadened my perspective and inspired me to incorporate more diverse and inclusive practices in my classroom, helping me to better support my student’s unique needs.

Outside of teaching, I love walking my dog, reading and going to the gym.

Mr Connor Landas – Science teacher

I have always had a passion for teaching and my journey into teaching was profoundly influenced by my own experiences as a student.

During my school years I was fortunate to have an exceptional teacher who not only imparted knowledge but also ignited a passion for learning within me. Their dedication, patience, and ability to make every lesson engaging left a lasting impression. They believed in my potential even when I doubted myself and their encouragement inspired me to pursue a career in education. I aspire to be that same source of inspiration and support for my students, helping them discover their own love for learning and guiding them towards their fullest potential.

Outside of teaching, I love my sport specifically football, cricket, rugby league and basketball.

Ms Chihiro Doucet – Japanese teacher

Prior to joining Marist College Eastwood, I taught at several schools including The Hills Grammar School where I taught French, Japanese and English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) and Wenona School, SHORE School, and International Grammar School. I was also fortunate enough to work in France for a little while as a Foreign Languages Assistant for the Ministry of Education.

I was inspired to go into teaching because I love sharing knowledge. I enjoy helping others discover the subjects I care deeply about and through teaching, I have realised that I learn just as much, if not more, than I teach. The constant opportunity to explore new ideas and learn alongside my students keeps me excited and motivated.

Throughout my teaching career I have led some very rewarding initiatives. I organised student-run Japanese Curry Lunch sessions, which helped promote teamwork and brought the school community together. My love for origami also led to a successful co-curricular group that boosted STEM engagement and gave students a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture. Working with a large-group study tour to Japan, where I provided cultural and historical insights and support, was an incredible experience that was one of the highlights of my career to date.  All of these experiences have shaped my teaching style, which focuses on making learning fun and relevant to real-life situations.