Ms Karen McArdle commenced as the Head of the Junior School at St Catherine’s School in January 2019.

Ms McArdle has completed a Master of Education (Leadership & Management), a Bachelor of Education (Major: Curriculum Design & Development) and a Diploma of Teaching (Primary).

With extensive experience in primary years schooling, including 18 years’ experience as a Head of Junior School, Ms McArdle brings to the role considerable expertise in school leadership, curriculum development and leading exemplary practice in teaching and learning.

Ms McArdle was previously the Head of Junior School at Aitken College and prior to this was the inaugural Head of Junior School at Ipswich Girls Grammar School, growing the school from its introduction of primary classes to a student population of 335 pupils. She also has considerable experience leading an Early Education Centre for 3 and 4 years old children.

As a leading educator, Ms McArdle brings to St Catherine’s a wealth of experience in areas of professional learning involving academic data analysis to monitor student progress and to inform teaching practice that enables the development of differentiated teaching and a personalised learning experience for all students.

Mrs McArdle’ natural warmth, genial and friendly approach enables a vibrant school community to flourish with the nurturing of happy and engaged children.