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 Steven Middleton (DEd (Melb), MEd (Melb), MBus(SportMgt), BA (Melb), GDipEd (Melb), GDip(SportMgt))
Principal
Dr Steven Middleton, our new Principal and CEO of Pittwater House, brings energy, warmth and a deeply relational approach to leadership.
A highly respected educator and accomplished academic, Dr Middleton brings nearly three decades of leadership experience across some of Australia’s leading independent schools. He was previously Associate Principal at St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar School in Melbourne, where he played a pivotal role in advancing academic excellence, student wellbeing and school culture within a structure closely aligned to Pittwater House’s own distinctive model.
Dr Middleton holds a Doctor of Education, with a doctoral thesis focused on leadership and character in independent schools, alongside qualifications in education and business management. He has also undertaken executive leadership studies at institutions including Harvard University.
In 2025, he was recognised as one of Australia’s 50 Most Influential Educators on The Educator’s Hot List – an honour celebrating exceptional impact across the K–12 sector.
Known for his authentic leadership style, intellectual curiosity and strong sense of humour, Dr Middleton is committed to fostering school as a place of belonging, excellence and safety, where students are known, supported and challenged to thrive.
“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)
Deputy 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 and Acting Principal for Term 4, 2025, 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.