Our School Board meets 6 times a year to support the strategic direction of the school and provide the voice of a critical friend to our school community. They are involved in the life of the school, supporting and attending key events in the school calendar. Our board is made up of a varied membership. Six elected parent members, five community appointed members, the Principal and three elected staff members.
Board meetings are open to all community members to attend and observe. The agenda includes presentations from staff, school self-review evidence and analysis, financial information and opportunities to be involved in future directions.
Open positions on the board will be filled in line with our terms of reference.
School Board Members
Staff
Will Davis – Principal
Peta Whitfield
Aimee Turner
Kate Veljacich
Parents
Amy Walsh
Haylee Lewis
Jacqui Norris
Kerry Butterworth
Community
Andrew McKerrell
Nicole Fairhurst – Chair Person
Denika Meehan
Michelle Totterdell
Bashir Ahmadyar
Board Member Profiles
Peta Whitfield
Oakwood Primary School has been a big part of my life since 2020. First as a parent, then as a teacher, and now as a proud board member. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a supportive and vibrant school community, where I can help shape a positive and enriching environment for our students.
Outside of school, life is a beautiful mix of family, friends, and animals! I’m a proud wife and mum to three wonderful children, all of whom have attended Oakwood prior to commencing high school, with my youngest son still here. We live on a stunning property where life is never dull, thanks to our menagerie of animals! Including 16 chickens, 5 sheep, and 2 cats, each with their own unique names cheeky personalities!
I love the simple joys of country life, soaking in nature, enjoynig our property, or unwinding with a good book. Of course, laughter is essential, whether it’s with my family, my students, or toddler-tempered lambs (Rosie and Frank) who keep things on the property very entertaining!
Being on the board allows me to give back to a school that holds a special place in my heart. I’m passionate about ensuring Oakwood remains a place where children feel inspired, supported, and excited to learn each day. A school where staff feel valued and empowered, knowing the difference they make truly matters, and where our strong, connected community remains a cornerstone of support, collaboration, and growth.
Kerry Butterworth
Our family has been part of the Oakwood school community since 2020. I am the partner of a local GP and have been a nurse for over 20 years, mainly in Emergency Nursing and now nursing management. I have two children who attend the school, one in Year 2 and the other in Pre Primary. Previously I was the secretary of our amazing P&C and am enjoying the change being a board member but still involved in our wonderful school community.
Aimee Turner
Hey Oakwood Community! I’m thrilled to be a part of this wonderful school as a board member. My Oakwood journey began back in 2020, and since then I’ve worn many hats-from teaching Kindy to spreading the love of Music, and now, you’ll find me in a Year Two classroom. The best part of my role is witnessing our amazing kids flourish in this supportive and engaging environment. Beyond school, my world revolves around my incredible husband, two Oakwood stars, and my adorable Cavoodle.
Andrew McKerrell
After moving into the area in early 2017, I was delighted to have the opportunity to assist the local community by joining the Oakwood Board as a community member. Although not yet having school age children, understanding that our children are our future and the future leaders of our great community, I believe I have a responsibility to use my skills, knowledge and experience to play a part in influencing positive change within a team of like-minded, driven and passionate people from our school community.
Amy Walsh
Our family has been part of the Oakwood Community since early 2023 when our daughter commenced Pre Primary. I have 20 years experience in various Human Resources roles with the last 8 years being in Global Reward Strategy, Corporate Governance and supporting Board Committees for ASX listed companies. I am passionate about family, sport, education & health and am looking forward to seeing the Senior Leadership team at Oakwood further shape and grow this awesome school.
Haylee Lewis
Our family joined Oakwood in 2021 and have loved it since day one. I currently have 2 children at Oakwood in Year 1 and Year 2, with our third eagerly waiting until he can start Kindy in 2025. I work in banking and my husband works FIFO. We moved to Mandurah in 2021 after spending time living in New Zealand and Kalgoorlie. I love being part of the Oakwood community and being able to give back to a school that truly cares for our children
Michelle Totterdell
Hey I’m Shell. My son Koah goes to Oakwood. I grew up in Esperance and have lived in Mandurah for 12 years now. I work for a local allied health company specialising in disabilities and the NDIS. I love family games nights, summer and the beach. When it’s cold down here we love to escape up north to the warmth in the Kimberley.
Jacqui Norris
Hello, I’m Jacqui Norris, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the Oakwood School community as a School Board member. With two wonderful children, Michael in Year 4 and Jordan in Year 1, I’m not just a board member; I’m a proud parent deeply invested in our school’s success. My professional background in community development equips me with a diverse skill set that I believe brings value to the board. I’m passionate about fostering a supportive and enriching environment for our students. We truly love Oakwood School, where children are the heart of our community. It’s more than a motto; it’s a way of life for us. We affectionately call ourselves “Oakwooders,” and there’s something truly Oakwood awesome about being part of this school. I’m dedicated to helping our Oakwood community thrive and ensuring a bright future for our students. Together, we can make our school the best it can be!
Nikki Fairhurst
I am delighted to meet you as the current Oakwood Primary School Board Chairperson. I was a foundational staff member from 2019, and have been involved in the development of pedagogical approaches, leadership and professional learning. In 2022, I transitioned into sessional academic work training pre-service teachers, and undertaking educational research. At this time, I proudly joined the school board as a community member. In my spare time, I am passionate about travel, and I love any opportunity for adventure in the wilderness. I am also the board secretary for a Rotaract organisation, and enjoy volunteering within the community. I enjoy having the opportunity to give back to our incredible school.