School Board
The Mount Hawthorn Education Support Centre Board commenced in 2026, after the dissolution of the joint Mount Hawthorn Schools Board in 2025.
At our school, the board play an important role in making sure we are well‑governed, that resources are used wisely, and that our priorities reflect the needs of our students and the expectations of our community.
By legislation, the council and board have both approval and advisory responsibilities. Working alongside the principal, they may help decide on matters such as:
- fees and charges
- book lists
- sponsorship opportunities
- dress codes
It’s important to note that while the board provide guidance and oversight, the day‑to‑day management of our school remains the responsibility of the principal. Together, this partnership ensures decisions are fair, transparent, and always focused on what’s best for our students.
Katharine Nash
Former joint Board Chair for Mount Hawthorn PS and MHESC, Katharine brings historical insight into our school improvement journey, extensive governance experience, and a personal connection as a past MHESC parent. Katharine has been recognised by the City of Vincent, named as a 2022 Local Hero, for helping to drive positive change in the community. Katharine’s generosity of spirit continues to benefit the MHESC school community, and being a strong advocate for the students, families and staff.
Professor Andrew Whitehouse
Andrew Whitehouse is the Deputy Director of The Kids Research Institute Australia. He is also the Angela Wright Bennett Professor of Autism Research, the Director of at The Kids Research Institute Australia, and the Research Strategy Director of the Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC). Prior to coming to The Kids, Andrew was a Junior Research Fellow at the University of Oxford.
At The Kids, he leads a network of clinical centres (called CliniKids) for children with neurodevelopmental differences that embeds clinical trials within everyday community practice. Andrew has published over 350 peer-reviewed journal articles and attracted over $90 million in competitive research grants. He currently presents an internationally syndicated video series called ’60 Second Science”, which has had over 2 million views. He is an advisor to State and Commonwealth Governments on policies relating to children with Autism Spectrum Conditions. He chaired the committee that generated Australia’s first national guideline for autism diagnosis, and co-chaired the committee that developed Australia’s first national guideline for early therapies and supports for autistic children.
Andrew has published one edited book with his twin-brother (Ben), and a popular science book that examined the science behind some of the myths of pregnancy and child development (Will Mozart Make My Baby Smart?). He has also been awarded a Eureka Prize for his research, and is the youngest person ever elected to Fellowship of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences. In 2023, he was a Western Australian of the Year award winner.
Rachael Loftus-Hills
Rachael Loftus-Hills is a proud parent of a current Mount Hawthorn Education Support Centre student. She represents families as a parent member on the Mount Hawthorn Schools Board, working closely with the Education Support Centre to strengthen connections between parents and the school and to help build a strong, inclusive school community. Professionally, she is an occupational therapist focused on adults living with disability, and she brings this same commitment to her volunteer work. She serves as Inclusion Officer on the local Little Athletics Club committee, helping ensure the club is welcoming, accessible, and fun for all athletes. Her contributions include guiding the club’s involvement in the Welcoming Inclusion Project and encouraging small but meaningful changes that create safe, supportive environments. Additionally, Rachael coaches basketball at her local club, further strengthening her ties to the community and reflecting her dedication to fostering inclusive, supportive spaces across sport and education. She also contributes to SATB2 Connect, a small parent run charity supporting individuals living with SATB2 Associated Syndrome.
Olivia West
Olivia is a valued education assistant who offers classroom level insight and experience. She is a champion for students and supports her colleagues through various leadership roles within the Centre. Olivia has worked in all classrooms and is highly respected by her colleagues, our students and their families.
