Westminster Boarding 2026 - Westminster School

Summary of meeting held on 23 December 2025

(This information is intended for Westminster Boarding families only. Your discretion is appreciated)

The meeting focused on addressing recent staffing changes in the boarding at Westminster, discussing the interim model to be implemented, and ensuring the continuity of care for students. The primary goal was to communicate the new structure, introduce the interim team, and reassure parents about the measures taken to maintain high standards of student care and compliance with national boarding standards. The meeting also covered the recruitment process for permanent positions and the support systems in place for both staff and students during this transition.

It is also acknowledged and gratitude expressed for Andrew and Marissa for their many years of care, support and commitment to our boarding community and to so many of our families.

Key updates

Staffing Changes: Simon announced that Andrew and Marissa would not be starting next year, necessitating an interim model for boarding.
Interim Leadership: Amelia Mislov will be the Acting Director of Boarding for Term 1, supported by Brian Kennelly, Rosie Broderick as Acting Head of Girls Boarding, and Mark White as Acting Head of Boys Boarding.
Girls' Boarding: Rosie Broderick will lead girls' boarding, assisted by Jaqs Hillan, to ensure continuity and support.
Compliance and Standards: The school aims to align with national boarding standards by the end of Term 1, with additional support from the compliance and safety officer.
Principal's Leave: Simon will be on long service leave in Term 1, with Andrew Whiteman acting as principal during this period.
Parent Concerns: Addressed concerns about the turnover in girls' boarding staff and the measures being taken to ensure stability and support.
Communication: Parents were encouraged to reach out with questions and were assured that a frequently asked questions sheet would be provided in the new year.

Speaker summary

Simon Shepherd

Meeting Introduction: Simon welcomed everyone and acknowledged the ongoing harvest season and upcoming Christmas break. He expressed hope for good yields and a restful holiday for those who have completed their harvest.
Staffing Changes in Boarding: Simon discussed the unexpected staffing changes in the boarding, noting that Andrew and Marissa would not be starting the next year. He emphasized the challenges this posed and the need for an interim model to maintain strong links between the day school and boarding, and the ongoing care for boarding students.
Interim Staffing Model: Simon detailed the interim staffing model, highlighting the roles of Amelia Mislov as Acting Director of Boarding, supported by Brian Kennelly, Rosie Broderick as Acting Head of Girls Boarding, and Mark White as Acting Head of Boys Boarding.
Commitment to Boarding Standards: Simon emphasized the school's commitment to maintaining high standards of care and compliance with national boarding standards. He mentioned the involvement of the Australian Boarding Schools Association and the goal of becoming one of the compliant schools by the end of term 1.
Long Service Leave: Simon explained his upcoming long service leave and the appointment of Andrew Whiteman as the acting principal during his absence. He assured that he would remain contactable to support the staff and students.
Addressing Concerns: Simon addressed various concerns raised by parents, including the sustainability of the boarding model, the involvement of the BPA in the recruitment process, and the measures taken to support the health and well-being of the students.

Andrew Whiteman

Acting Principal Role: Andrew introduced himself and expressed his excitement about stepping into the role of acting principal. He highlighted his previous experience in this role and his close working relationship with Brian Kennelly.
Commitment to Boarding: Andrew reassured parents of his commitment to maintaining the high standards of care in boarding and his availability to address any concerns. He emphasized the strength of the interim team and their dedication to supporting the students.
Compliance with Boarding Standards: Andrew discussed the school's commitment to align with national boarding standards, including the involvement of the head of risk and compliance.
Mobile Phone Policy: Andrew addressed questions about the new mobile phone policy, explaining that students would not be allowed to have their phones during the day and that the boarding staff would work closely with students to ensure compliance.
Overnight Accommodation: Andrew provided information about the overnight accommodation arrangements for boarding staff, noting that these details were still being finalised but would ensure the safety and support of the students.

Brian Kennelly

Support for Boarding Staff: Brian expressed his commitment to supporting the boarding staff and ensuring the well-being of the students. He emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards of care and the school's dedication to providing a positive boarding experience.
Experience and Expertise: Brian highlighted his extensive experience in education and boarding, noting his passion for working with students and his role in mentoring and guiding the boarding staff.

Rosie Broderick

Role in Interim Model: Rosie discussed her role to support the boarding staff and students. She emphasised her commitment to providing care and support for the girls in boarding and her willingness to address any concerns from parents.
Experience in Boarding: Rosie highlighted her extensive experience as the head of boarding at Wilderness and her recent work with the Australian Boarding Schools Association. She expressed her dedication to ensuring compliance with boarding standards and supporting the interim team.

Amelia Mislov

Acting Director of Boarding: Amelia introduced herself and expressed her excitement about taking on the role of Acting Director of Boarding. She highlighted her experience working with senior students and her commitment to supporting the boarding community.
Approachability and Support: Amelia emphasised her approachability and willingness to listen to parents and students. She encouraged parents to reach out with any concerns and assured them of her dedication to providing a positive boarding experience.

Mark

Role in Interim Model: Mark discussed his new role in running boys' boarding and expressed his confidence in the support provided by the interim team. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the team's ability to work through them.

Interim Staffing Structure

The interim boarding staffing structure has been established to provide clarity stability and strong leadership during this period of transition. It brings together deep institutional knowledge operational experience and sector expertise to ensure boarding continues to be a safe supportive and purposeful environment for students.

Amelia Mislov has served as Head of Senior Students since 2024, she will step across to lead boarding as Acting Director of Boarding. Amelia is a trusted and highly regarded leader who will be well supported as she takes on this vital role. She will bring to the role a strong understanding of student wellbeing pastoral care and the broader life of the School. Her leadership will provide continuity and a clear sense of direction for boarding.

Supporting Amelia is Brian Kennelly who joins Westminster as a mentor and advisor to boarding staff. Brian brings extensive experience in school and boarding leadership and will provide additional guidance, strategic insight and professional support to the boarding leadership team.

Operational leadership within boarding is further strengthened through the appointments of Rosie Broderick as Acting Head of Girls Boarding, and Mark White as Acting Head of Boys Boarding. Rosie brings significant experience in boarding leadership, student wellbeing and education management with a long-standing commitment to creating environments where students can live and learn well.

Mark has worked within boarding over the past year gaining experience alongside Andrew Junge. He has a long and positive relationship with Westminster boarding students through his previous role as on-site manager for Cater Care and is well known within our community. Mark is excited by the opportunity to further contribute to boarding and to support the wellbeing and daily experience of students.

Please be aware that the interim staffing model we have put in place is a very well-resourced and supported and that over the course of 2026 we will be openly recruiting a new boarding leadership team. The boarding leadership team will as always be supported by School Leadership Team, particularly during this transition.

Together this leadership team provides a balanced and thoughtful approach combining experience continuity and care to support boarding students and staff throughout the interim period.