Deborah Mathers

Principal

Jarryd Floyd

Leading Teacher

Hi! I'm Jarryd Floyd, and I am currently teaching in Grade 5/6. My favourite areas to teach are Maths and PE. I have a Bachelor of Education from Monash University and have taught at Paynesville Primary School for 11 years. My favourite part of teaching is building relationships with students and helping them achieve their goals. When I am not at school, I enjoy playing cricket, watching Carlton play, and spending time with my wife and dog, Ernie.

Caroline Hudson

Grade 5 & 6

Jessica Sargant

Grade 2,3 & 4

Mary Sowa

Grade 1 & 2

Hi, I’m Mary Sowa. I currently teach Grade 1 & 2. I love learning new things and it is such a joy being about to help students learn new things every day. I aim to make my classroom a place where everyone feels they are included, inspired and supported in their learning. I have a Bachelor of Teaching (Hons.) from Melbourne University and I have been teaching at Paynesville Primary School for 25 years. Outside of school I enjoy boating, travelling and photography.

Angela Stringer

Foundation (Prep)

My goal is to create a safe and engaging classroom environment where every student feels valued and excited to learn. I believe in taking a hands-on approach to teaching—whether we are exploring math through manipulatives or diving into a writing project. I enjoy watching students discover their own potential, ‘the light bulb moments’ and gain the confidence they need to thrive both academically and socially.

When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy time on the Gippsland Lakes, travelling and spending time with my family. I am looking forward to a wonderful school year filled with growth, discovery, and plenty of fun!

ART 

DEANNE HOWLETT

Hi! I’m Deanne Howlett (the students call me Dee), the Art Specialist at Paynesville Primary School, and I’ve had the privilege of working here for nearly 20 years. I have a Bachelor Degree in Graphic Design and have always been passionate about creativity, making, and learning through art.

I teach students from Prep to Year 6 and love being part of their artistic journey. Our younger students enjoy structured art projects that help them develop skills and confidence, while students in Years 3 to 6 participate in a TAB (Teaching for Artistic Behaviour) program, where they can explore their own interests, make choices, and develop as independent artists.

Art is a big part of my life both inside and outside the classroom. I am a practising artist who regularly exhibits my work, and I enjoy sharing my love of art and creative expression with my students. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing children discover new skills, take creative risks, and feel proud of what they have achieved.

When I’m not teaching or creating art, I enjoy walking with my dog, spending time outdoors, and exploring on our boat with family and friends.

FOOD TECHNOLOGY 

TAHLIA SMITH

Hello! My name is Tahlia Smith. I am the Food Technologies teacher at school. I love teaching such a fun specialist subject and showing our students a different side of food and cooking. Teaching children and helping them learn and grow brings me such joy. I have a Batchelor of Primary Teaching from Curtin University and have been teaching for 6 years. Personally, I love camping with my family, reading and working on my latest crafting interest.

MUSIC 

SERENA JEFFERIS

WELLBEING CO-ORDINATOR

LINDA KING

WELLBEING LEADER

TRINITY FORDHAM

SCHOOL CHAPLAIN

ROSIE ALEXANDROV

My name is Rosie and I am the School Chaplain here at Paynesville PS. I love creating a safe and caring space where children feel heard and valued, and it is my joy to see them flourish in all aspects of their wellbeing. My role includes providing pastoral care, offering a listening ear, and supporting students through both challenges and celebrations. I have experience working with young people in a variety of settings and enjoy walking alongside them as they grow in confidence and resilience. Outside of work, you will find me enjoying a good book, going on nature walks, or cuddling my two beloved black cats.

BUSINESS MANAGER

LAUREN BILLS

Hi, my name is Lauren and I am the Business Manager at Paynesville Primary School. I have been a part of the Paynesville PS community for many years and love welcoming our families as they enter our school each day.

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is watching our students grow over the years and develop into fabulous members of our community. My role is not only about supporting families with their needs but also providing support to our staff so they can continue to deliver the best possible outcomes for our students.

When I am not at Paynesville PS, I am busy supporting my husband with our family business and spending time with our daughter. I am also actively involved in local sporting clubs and, whenever I have the opportunity, I enjoy exploring everything our beautiful region has to offer

OFFICE MANAGER & CLASSROOM SUPPORT

KERRY WALTERS

Hello! My name is Kerry, and I am proud to be part of the team here at Paynesville Primary. My journey in education began in high school, where I first discovered my lifelong passion for teaching and coaching. For me, the most rewarding part of being an educator is watching my students develop, grow, and succeed both academically and personally. I enjoy a creative, active, supportive classroom environment where every student feels confident to reach their full potential. Outside of school, you will almost always find me outdoors. I am an avid animal lover who enjoys spending time with my horses and dogs, and I love staying active in nature. I look forward to a wonderful year of learning and growing together!"

LITERACY SUPPORT & CLASSROOM SUPPORT

BRIANNA TOMKINS

BREAKFAST CLUB CO-ORDINATOR, CLASSROOM SUPPORT

SUZANNE HUDSON

My name is Suzanne Hudson, and I have worked in Education Support for the past 12 years. I am passionate about helping students and enjoy seeing their confidence and skills grow over time. Supporting young people in their learning journey is incredibly rewarding and is what I love most about my role.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and taking my dog, Razz, for walks.

CLASSROOM SUPPORT

RIKKI-JO MOLINARO

CLASSROOM SUPPORT

REBECCA PYKE

CLASSROOM SUPPORT

JAIME FORDHAM

Hi, I’m Jaime Fordham and I have been a teacher’s aide at Paynesville Primary School since 2022. I am currently studying a bachelor of child and family psychology at Deakin University. 

My goal is to create a learning environment where students feel safe, and confident, and enjoy their time at school. 

Outside of school, I enjoy playing basketball, going to the beach, and hanging out with my dog Roddy.