Leadership Team
Principal – Dr Michael Blowes
Michael joined Christian Brothers Lewisham in 2021, bringing extensive leadership experience in Catholic education. Prior to this, he served as Senior Regional Consultant for Sydney Catholic Schools, overseeing 16 secondary schools. His leadership journey includes roles as Principal of St Patrick’s College Sutherland and Marist College Eastwood, as well as Assistant Principal positions at Marist College Kogarah and Parramatta Marist High School. In addition to his leadership experience, Michael has an impressive academic background. He holds a Master of Education, a Bachelor of Arts, and a Diploma of Education (Hons.) from the University of New South Wales, along with a Graduate Diploma of Religious Education from the Catholic College of Education. He also earned a Doctorate in Education from the Australian Catholic University, specialising in secondary school improvement.
Deputy Principal – Mark Woodbury
Mark supports the Principal in the overall leadership and management of the school, working to ensure a dynamic and nurturing learning environment. Alongside the Principal, he provides religious and educational leadership, guiding the spiritual, social, academic, and personal development of students. A dedicated educator and leader, Mark has been part of the School Leadership Team since 2010. He previously served as Assistant Principal – Primary at Christian Brothers’ Lewisham and Acting Assistant Principal at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Enfield. With a strong commitment to student growth and school excellence, he brings valuable experience to his role. Mark holds a Bachelor of Education from the Australian Catholic University.
Assistant Principal Identity – Dan Valencic
Dan is responsible for fostering and strengthening the School’s Catholic identity in the Edmund Rice tradition. He leads the development of liturgical, spiritual, and formation experiences for students, staff, and families while supporting Justice and Peace initiatives. Dan joined our community in 2014 as the Religious Education Coordinator and brings 25 years of teaching experience across various EREA and LaSallian schools in Sydney. His leadership has spanned multiple curriculum areas, including roles as Visual Arts Coordinator, CAPA Coordinator, and REC at Oakhill College, Castle Hill. He holds a Bachelor of Education in Visual Arts and Religious Education from the Australian Catholic University.
Assistant Principal Pastoral – Chris Kidd
Chris oversees the wellbeing and pastoral care of our students. He works closely with the Pastoral Team, which includes eight House Pastoral Coordinators and the School Counselling Team, to create a supportive environment where all students are known, valued, and cared for. Under his leadership, the team fosters a school culture built on right and respectful relationships, ensuring a positive and inclusive student experience. With two decades of experience in both sporting and educational settings, Chris has been a dedicated member of the CBHS community since 2009. He was appointed Assistant Principal Pastoral in 2019, bringing a deep commitment to student wellbeing. He holds a Bachelor of Teaching/Bachelor of Arts from the Australian Catholic University and a Master of Education, specialising in Educational Wellbeing, from Southern Cross University.
Assistant Principal Academic – Keith Page
Keith is responsible for delivering a high-quality Catholic education that supports and challenges students academically. He works closely with teaching staff, Heads of Departments, and the Diverse Learning team to develop and implement a curriculum that fosters critical thinking, academic rigor, and personal growth. Keith plays a key role in ensuring that all students are engaged in a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that meets their individual needs. Keith joined the school in 2015 as the Head of History and Geography before being appointed to his current role. He demonstrates a strong commitment to educational excellence, student achievement, and continuous academic improvement. He holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Teaching from the University of Sydney, as well as a Master of Education (Leadership) from Charles Sturt University.
Assistant Principal Culture and Organisation – Michael Behayi
Michael is responsible for the daily operations and administration of the school. He plays a key role in the development and implementation of the school timetable, and works to ensure smooth and efficient operations. Through strategic planning he contributes to fostering a well-organised and positive school environment. His extensive experience as a Mechanical Engineer provides valuable insights into industry-relevant education, particularly in the context of boys’ education. He has held various leadership roles in education including Year Coordinator, Head of Mathematics, and Administration Coordinator. Michael holds a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours from the University of Sydney, an Associate Diploma in Applied Science, and a Diploma of Teaching from UNSW.
Assistant Principal Teaching and Learning – Natalie Devenish
Natalie is responsible for advancing a teaching and learning program that raises student achievement and ensures quality educational practices across the school. She works closely with staff and leaders to foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in teaching. With over two decades of experience in Catholic education, Natalie has held leadership roles including Assistant Principal, Leader of Pedagogy and Innovation, and Leader of Curriculum. Her expertise in curriculum design and evidence-based teaching practices enables her to lead transformative change. Natalie holds a Master of Education in Educational Psychology from UNSW, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, a Graduate Diploma in Religious Education from ACU, and a Bachelor of Education from Charles Sturt University.
Business Manager – Darren Perry
Darren is responsible for overseeing the financial management of the school, ensuring efficient resource management, budget planning and strategic financial decision making to support the school’s objectives. His role oversees managing our facilities and compliance with regulatory requirements, as well as capital works projects. Darren brings extensive experience in financial management, having previously served as the Accountant for National Disability Services and held roles as Management Accountant and Assistant Accountant across various sectors since 2011. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting & Business Law) from the University of Wollongong, is a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA), and in 2023, completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from The Australian Institute of Business.
Director of Human Resources – Ann-Marie Banno
Ann-Marie leads the strategic and operational direction of the School’s HR functions and oversees our risk and compliance obligations. She works closely with the leadership and teaching staff to ensure that risk management is integrated into the school’s overall strategy and daily operations. With over 15 years of experience in Catholic education, Ann-Marie has provided expert support to schools in areas including employment, recruitment, safeguarding, change management, investigations, and wellbeing. Ann-Marie also brings valuable experience from the government and private sectors. She holds a Bachelor of Economics from the University of Sydney.