Led by experience. Governed with integrity
Our leadership team brings decades of educational and operational expertise, while our Board ensures strong governance and strategic direction – always with our students’ best interests at heart.
Dr Nancy Hillier (BA, DipEd, MEdSt, DEd, MACE, MACEL, MAICD)
Principal 2010 – Current
Dr Nancy Hillier leads Pittwater House with energy, integrity and deep compassion and has been Principal for 15 years.
A highly experienced educator and accomplished academic, she has brought over three decades of leadership across independent schools to her role as Principal and CEO.
Under her guidance, the school has experienced a 70% enrolment growth, expanded its subject and co-curricular offerings, achieved exceptional academic results, and completed significant capital works, including the recent refurbishment of the Senior School.
Dr Hillier has championed student wellbeing through a best-in-class pastoral care program, inspired an engaged and committed staff, and embedded the school’s HEROIC Core Values into every aspect of life at Pittwater House.
Her visionary leadership has elevated the School’s profile, which ranked in the top 50 NSW schools in 2024.
In September 2025, Dr Hillier was honored in a speech to Parliament delivered by Independent Member, Michael Regan MP celebrating her career successes. Read here.
For the duration of Term 4, Dr Hillier is taking a well-earned period of Long Service Leave, with ad hoc visits to the school. In her absence, for day-to-day matters, Mr James Walmsley is stepping in as Acting Principal.
“At Pittwater House, we combine evidence-based teaching with a deep commitment to student wellbeing. Our goal is to nurture confident, capable young people who are ready to thrive – not just academically, but in every area of their lives.”
Mr James Walmsley (BEd, MEdLead)
Acting Principal
As Acting Principal, Mr Walmsley brings nearly three decades of educational leadership, a deep commitment to student outcomes, and a collaborative approach that fosters growth across the school community.
Mr Walmsley has served Pittwater House with distinction since 1997. As Deputy Principal for 16 years, he has led teaching and learning initiatives across the School, with responsibilities including staff leadership, curriculum design, professional development, and timetable management. His long-standing contribution reflects his deep understanding of educational excellence and his enduring care for students and staff alike.
Mr Walmsley holds a Bachelor of Education (History) from the University of Sydney, a Master of Educational Leadership from Macquarie University, and is currently completing a Master of Business Administration with Southern Cross University.
He is recognised for his expertise in staff development, curriculum innovation, educational leadership and lesson design, and is widely respected for his steady, thoughtful and future-focused leadership.
Ms Anne-Maree Ironside
Business Manager
Mrs Katie Thomas
Head of Girls’ College
Mr Andrew Goldrick
Head of Boys’ Grammar
Mrs Ainslie Breckenridge
Head of Junior School
Mrs Katie Jackson
Director of Teaching & Learning
Mr Adam Demasi
Director of Studies
Our Executive Team
Our day-to-day leadership is driven by a committed team of professionals with deep experience in education, wellbeing, operations and community engagement.
Each member of our executive team plays a key role in shaping the school’s direction, supporting our students, and fostering a strong partnership with families.
Our Board of Governors
The Pittwater House Board governs with transparency and strategic foresight. All members offer their services voluntarily, and all school profits are reinvested into facilities, staff development and student programs.
Our Board is future-focused – ensuring that Pittwater House remains strategically positioned to grow in ways that reflect our values and community.
Annual Reports
Read about our school-wide successes, goals and strategies and see how we develop the mind, body and spirit of all our students.
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
Policies and procedures
Our policies meet the registration requirements set out in section 47 of the NSW Education Act and the Education Standards Authority Teaching and Educational Standards.