Our Leadership Team
Mrs Friné Lupke | Principal
I am honoured to serve as the principal of this wonderful institution since 2022, and as we celebrate a milestone of over 40 years of legacy.
My journey to this position has been diverse, starting in law studies, moving into the beauty industry, and finally finding my calling in education, with a focus on school Improvement, Development and Well-being.
My own academic education has seen me complete a Bachelor's in Education, an Advanced Diploma in Early Childhood Development and a Master of Education with a focus on Educational well-being.
As I reflect on the past 40 years, I am reminded of the importance of a strong foundation and the role that each stakeholder plays in shaping the lives of our students. I believe that education is a shared responsibility between parents, teachers, and the community, all working together to equip our young people for the future.
At Good Shepherd Christian School, we strive to create a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment where children can thrive and flourish.
Our students are individually known, valued and seen. We believe in promoting children's agency and well-being, and we aim to instil a sense of belonging in every student. Our goal is not only for students to achieve academic success but to also grow spiritually, socially and emotionally.
I am blessed to lead a team of dedicated and passionate Christian educators who are committed to nurturing and developing our students.
The culture we have at Good Shepherd Christian School is welcoming, and genuine and exudes excellence. Our remarkable and passionate staff are critical to this culture and always aim to set a consistent example of Christian values and a positive tone for our community.
My desire is for no one to pass through GSCS without being deeply and positively impacted by the special culture and to enable them to further make a positive impact in the world.
I invite each of you to become involved in our school community, to have conversations with us, and to be part of the journey of growth and development.
Together, we can truly make a difference in the lives of our children and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Join us as we flourish like the palm tree, planted in the house of the Lord, and continue to bring forth fruit in all seasons. Psalm 92:12-13
Together, we create a thriving community where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Mrs Ina West | Deputy Principal
Hello and welcome to Good Shepherd Christian School! I am delighted to serve as the Deputy Principal here, a role that allows me to bring my passion for education and my diverse background to our wonderful community.
My journey with Good Shepherd began at the start of my teaching career in 2019. Prior to that, I spent eight years in the Chemical Engineering industry, which afforded me the opportunity to travel extensively and immerse myself in various cultures. Upon arriving in Australia, I felt called to pursue a career that felt more meaningful, leading me to the field of education.
As a devoted mother of three wonderful children – two boys and a girl - I understand the importance of a nurturing and supportive educational environment. My husband and I have built our family on a foundation of love, respect, and faith, which informs my approach to education and leadership.
After completing my first practicum at Good Shepherd, I was approached to join the school upon my graduation. It has been an incredible honour to contribute to the development of our school culture and ethos ever since.
To me, teaching is more than just a profession; it's a calling. I am deeply committed to shaping young minds, guiding them to think critically, seek truth, and honour God in all they do. Inspired by Colossians 3:23, I strive to instil in our students a sense of dedication and enthusiasm in their work.
At Good Shepherd Christian School, we cherish our shared values and intimate community, providing an environment where both staff and students can flourish. Join us as we lay firm foundations for our future generation.
Mrs Melissa Walker | Operations Manager
I am incredibly proud to be part of the Good Shepherd community and to have witnessed firsthand the remarkable growth and transformation of the school over the years. Having served here for many years, it has been deeply rewarding to watch not only the school flourish, but also to see my own children grow into confident, capable young people who continue to thrive long after leaving the classroom.I am passionate about working in a Christ-centered environment where I can witness the growth and flourishing of young minds. It brings me great joy to contribute to the continuous improvement of our school—helping the campus and facilities reach their fullest potential is both a skill and a calling I cherish.
At Good Shepherd, I find deep alignment with the organisation’s values and beliefs. This shared vision creates a nurturing and purpose-driven environment where I am proud to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and support their holistic development.
Beyond my role, I have a love for cooking, netball, interior design, landscaping and most of all, spending quality time with my family. I find great joy in transforming spaces, bringing creativity and intention to each project—most recently within the school’s gardens and new high school precinct. Whether it’s through hospitality, sport, design, or family, I strive to bring warmth, beauty, and care into all that I do.
Mrs Nicole De Klerk | Head of Secondary
I am honoured and deeply grateful to serve as the Head of Secondary at Good Shepherd Christian School. I consider this role both a privilege and a calling, and I am thankful for the opportunity to lead within a school community that is firmly rooted in Christ and committed to nurturing students in faith, character, and knowledge.
With over a decade of teaching experience across Mathematics, Science, Biology, and Natural Science, I bring a genuine passion for learning, a heart for young people, and a deep respect for the unique journey each student is on.
I am also a parent of two young boys who are currently in primary school. Our family has had the opportunity to live in South Africa, New Zealand, and now Australia, and these experiences have given me a rich appreciation for the diversity of school communities and the different needs of students and families. They have strengthened my belief in the importance of creating a learning environment that is both supportive and challenging—one where students feel known, valued, and encouraged to pursue their very best.
At the heart of my work is a love for building meaningful relationships with students, staff, and families. I care deeply about every student entrusted to our school. I believe in setting high expectations because I know that young people are capable of extraordinary growth when they are supported, challenged, and encouraged. At the same time, I strive to lead with compassion, humility, and grace.
I believe that God has placed me in this role for a purpose—to serve Him and to contribute to the building of His Kingdom through Christian education. The words of Colossians 3:23 continue to guide and inspire me: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
Mrs Yvette van Schaik | Head of Primary
We, as a Primary team at Good Shepherd Christian School, are passionate about helping students develop a love for learning while supporting them academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually within a caring and Christ-centred environment. We believe every child is uniquely created by God with special gifts, talents, and purpose. Through our teaching and learning, we intentionally incorporate God’s Big Story — Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration — helping students understand themselves, others, and the world through a biblical lens.
Our team of passionate teachers strive to create meaningful, engaging, and creative learning experiences that make learning enjoyable and purposeful. Together, we aim to provide a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to try new things, build confidence, and use their God-given gifts to positively impact those around them.
It is a real privilege to serve as Head of Primary. From a very young age, I knew I wanted to be a teacher, and I have been blessed with the opportunity to teach in South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, being out in nature, and watching movies. I love working alongside students, staff, and families and feel incredibly grateful to be part of the Good Shepherd community.