College Board

I have been in education since 1988. My first posting was Wanneroo SHS where I taught for 3 terms before going to do my compulsory country service at Morawa Agricultural DHS for 3 years. In 1992 I returned to Perth, teaching at Lynwood SHS for 4 years where I first stepped into administration as HoLA of Physical Sciences and as the Stepping Out coordinator. In 1996 I took on the role of relieving secondary Deputy at Paraburdoo DHS for 12 months before moving my family again to Narrogin SHS in 1997, where I was HoLA of Biological Sciences and then a Deputy from 2007. In 2014 I once again returned to Perth and worked as relieving HoLA of Science at Pinjarra SHS until the end of term 1 2015, when I moved to Gilmore College as substantive Associate Principal responsible for Timetabling, VET, Student Services and Senior School. In 2021 I was placed in the position of relieving Principal as the substantive Principal moved into a Collegiate Principal role and in 2022 that role became permanent. At almost 10 years at Gilmore College, I saw Canning Vale College as my opportunity to further develop my leadership skills and stretch myself in a new direction. I am very grateful for the chance to work in a new context as far as my role in education is concerned.

As a local Canning Vale resident, I am pleased to be able to participate on the CVC Board.

Having a career with its foundations in Accounting, I have worked in General Management roles for the past 30 years across a number of industries, encompassing manufacturing, wholesale, warehousing, distribution and logistics businesses in local, national and international markets.

Currently I am the General Manager of a local Western Australian Company which manufactures and distributes products for the DIY/Hardware market, servicing major retailers nationally, in New Zealand and some South-East Asian markets. 

As an employer, I have an appreciation of the value in providing young people with meaningful education; developing skills and abilities which enable them to have effective and fulfilling careers.

Being part of the CVC Board, it gives me insight into how the college operates, helping me understand the operational challenges which are faced in the quest to deliver a high standard of education and guidance to the students.

I look forward to continuing working with the CVC board as we strive to keep improving our educational delivery and build our reputation as a school of choice.

Emma Zhang is a Board Member of Canning Vale College and a Councillor for the City of Gosnells, with a professional background in contract management. She has extensive experience in governance, stakeholder engagement, and delivering strategic outcomes across complex environments.

In addition to her professional work, Emma is actively engaged in pastoral and community leadership, demonstrating a strong commitment to service, inclusion, and community building. She is particularly focused on enhancing the College’s engagement with the international community, with the aim of broadening opportunities and global perspectives for students.

Emma is committed to strong governance, meaningful community connection, and supporting the College’s long-term vision and growth.

Amanda is a local Canning Vale community member and mother of two young girls, one at the College. She is a Clinical Psychologist and the Deputy Director, Practice for the Australian Centre for Child Protection and holds various board/ advisory appointments. She has worked for many years in therapeutic, research, and academic roles related to child abuse and trauma.

Kelly Ibbitson joins the Canning Vale College school board as a dedicated mother of three and an experienced educator in the fields of music and drama. With her oldest son embarking on his journey at Canning Vale College, Kelly’s commitment to the school community is both professional and deeply personal.

As a primary school music and drama teacher, Kelly has nurtured a passion for the arts and education, believing strongly in their power to enrich students’ lives. Her experience in the classroom gives her a unique perspective on the educational needs and opportunities for students at all levels. 

Kelly’s involvement in education governance is long-standing. Since 2016, she has been an active member of the Forest Crescent Primary School Board and has contributed to the Perth Metronet Project through the Thornlie Community Reference Group. Her roles in these capacities have honed her skills in representing and advocating for community needs.

A strong proponent of inclusive education, Kelly is particularly attuned to the needs of neurodivergent students and those requiring special education services. Her personal experience as a parent of neurodivergent children has fueled her commitment to ensuring that all students receive the support and opportunities they need to succeed.

As a new member of the Canning Vale College board, Kelly aims to be a positive voice for parents and a dedicated representative of the school community. She is eager to leverage her experiences and insights to champion diverse educational needs and to foster a nurturing and vibrant learning environment for every student.