School Leadership

Mrs Penelope Houghton

Pen joined Swan Valley Anglican Community School in 2018 as Deputy Principal. She is passionate about excellence in teaching and learning, with a strong focus on student wellbeing. Penelope values equipping teachers with research-backed methods to create quality learning experiences and is deeply committed to teacher wellbeing and professional growth. With over 15 years’ experience as a Deputy Principal in independent schools, she brings extensive leadership expertise. Pen holds a Master of Leadership and Management in Education from the University of Newcastle, specialising in leading change to ensure schools remain dynamic, supportive, and future-focused.

Mr Nesan Jayakumar

Nesan has been an integral part of Swan Valley Anglican Community School for 15 years, currently serving as Business Manager. With a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting, Nesan brings expertise and dedication to managing the school’s financial operations and supporting its long-term growth. Working closely with the Executive Team, he helps shape strategic priorities that create a vibrant learning environment and strong community connections. Nesan has played a key role in delivering major capital works projects, including The Collaboration and Creativity Centre. His leadership ensures the school remains a safe, supportive, and future-focused place for students and families.

Ms Keralee Radi

Keralee is an accomplished educator with ten years of leadership experience in wellbeing and inclusion at independent Anglican schools. She holds a Master of Education (Student Wellbeing) and a Graduate Certificate in Positive Education from the University of Melbourne, reflecting her commitment to evidence-based wellbeing frameworks and practices that cultivate supportive and empowering learning environments. Passionate about fostering student agency and amplifying student voice, Keralee champions inclusive approaches that enable every learner to thrive both personally and academically. Her collaborative leadership style inspires staff and students alike, embedding wellbeing into everyday practice and nurturing connected, flourishing school communities.

Mrs Celena Mecham

Celena has led Secondary Teaching and Learning at Swan Valley Anglican Community School since 2020. With over 30 years’ experience in education and a Master of Education (Educational Leadership), she leads an evidence-informed approach to inspire innovation and continuous improvement. Celena focuses on curriculum design, assessment, and strategic quality assurance, building systems and structures that support innovation in purposeful and sustainable ways. She enjoys sharing her expertise and learning from the expertise of others within the school, across the AngliSchools system, and through the Research Practice Partnership with Melbourne Metrics.

Ms Shirley Steel

Shirley has 35 years of experience in International and Anglican schools, holding various teaching and leadership roles. Passionate about every student thriving, she champions joyful, purposeful learning environments that foster agency, belonging, and active engagement. Shirley is committed to equipping students with the competencies needed for a bright future, inspiring them to serve and take action. She promotes inclusivity, cultural responsiveness and positive partnerships with students, staff, families and the community. Employed in AngliSchools for the past 19 years, she supports high-quality, affordable education where students feel seen, heard, and empowered to flourish both in and beyond the classroom.

Mr Dean Shadgett

Dean is an accomplished educational leader with extensive experience in teaching, learning, and student wellbeing. He has held leadership roles across several of Perth’s leading independent schools and is known for his collaborative approach and commitment to helping staff and students thrive. Dean holds degrees in Arts and Education from Edith Cowan University and a Master of Education in Management, Leadership and Administration from The University of Western Australia. His expertise spans curriculum design, strategic planning, and educational technology. Dean brings warmth, professionalism, and a deep understanding of school communities to every role.

Mrs Josephine Finlay

Mrs Joanne Crawshaw

Ms Laura Permanand