Governance
Samford Valley Steiner School is an independent school established in 1987 by the Rudolf Steiner Education Group Brisbane Inc. (the Association). The Association oversees the school’s development, with membership open to staff, parents, and community members. Its annual general meeting allows members to nominate for board positions. To see our Annual Reports, Strategic plans and policies, check out our Official Documents.
Teachers and College of Teachers
Teachers are central to the school, delivering education and pastoral care while working together to create shared approaches. The College of Teachers, a dedicated group of staff, focuses on enhancing the school’s overall well-being and vision through collaboration and communication.
Senior Leadership Team (SLT)
The SLT includes the School Director, High School Director, Primary School Director, Early Childhood Director, Economic Development Manager, and College Chair. This team leads the strategic and operational management of the school, ensuring continuous improvement and a connection between the teaching body and governance.
The Board
The Board governs the school to ensure it operates effectively, legally, and sustainably while delivering high-quality education. Board members are volunteers dedicated to the school’s long-term success. Members bring expertise from diverse fields to guide the school’s strategic direction.
Board Members
President – Tim Dunn
Tim has been privileged to have had a 20 year long relationship with SVSS, and with over 40 years of experience in education. He worked as a research scientist at UQ (holding a PhD in biochemistry), a Senior Lecturer at QUT and was then one of the pioneering educators who began our current high school. He worked in SVSS leadship from 2013 to 2019 and works now as a mentor and consultant for many Steiner schools both in Australia and overseas. He joined the SVSS Board in April 2023 and is a passionate supporter of our leadership, teachers, parents and students to deliver the very best Steiner education available. Tim has two grandchildren at SVSS and a son who graduated from our high school in 2016.
Treasurer – Julia Abramova
Julia is a CPA with more than 15 years of financial management experience across corporate and non-profit sectors. Currently a Financial Controller with expertise in financial analysis and strategic planning, she contributes her skills to support the school’s development. Julia has two children at the school.
Non-Executive Member – Cherrie Wilson
Cherrie has over 25 years of experience in the not-for-profit sector, specializing in governance, finance, legal compliance, and organizational development. She joined the Board in 2022 and is committed to supporting the school’s growth while upholding its Steiner education values. Cherrie is a parent of one current student and one graduate.
Non-Executive Member – Miranda Tester
Miranda brings over 17 years of leadership in real estate investment and development. A mother of two SVSS students, she is passionate about the school’s nurturing environment and supports its growth and masterplan implementation.
Non-Executive Member – Rachael Trihey
Rachael is Co-CEO and Co-Founder of YOUmanity, an organisational consultancy specialising in leadership recruitment and board advisory. She began her career as an accountant and has since built experience as a board director and executive search professional supporting organisations to build strong leadership teams and healthy workplace cultures. Rachael has also co-founded two charities focused on safeguarding outcomes for children and vulnerable people and brings this experience to her governance work with Samford Valley Steiner School.