Headquarters:

43 Kenthurst Rd

Year founded:

1982

Number of employees:

200+

Phone:

02 9654 2111

Email:

hg.reception@hillsgrammar.nsw.edu.au

Website:

hillsgrammar.nsw.edu.au

LinkedIn:

linkedin.com/school/hills-grammar

“We prioritise embracing cutting-edge technologies, creative problem solving and continuous improvement to enhance our premium funding solutions and provide exceptional value to our clients”

Karen Yager

Principal

David Hamper

Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School

Sarah Black

Head of Junior School

Leadership

A progressive and creative leader, Karen Yager brings more than 26 years of experience to Hills Grammar School after her most recent role as deputy headmaster K–12 at Knox Grammar. Her work in the education and academic world has been recognised with numerous awards, including the 2019 NSW Professional Teachers’ Council Award for Outstanding Service to Education. With an emphasis on developing each student’s unique strengths, agency and voice, Yager will continue to nurture, grow and inspire the Hills Originals to achieve their potential for greatness. She commenced as Hills Grammar’s fifth principal in January 2022 and is enjoying meeting the Hills Grammar community – students, staff and families.

Principal

Karen Yager

David Hamper joined Hills Grammar in May 2022, bringing 25 years of experience to the school. He has held a number of senior roles in diverse independent schools across Sydney, with portfolios including teaching and learning, wellbeing, innovation, staff development, human resources and school operations. Hamper has also held a number of special advisory appointments, including in curriculum design and assessment with state and national curriculum authorities, teacher education with universities in Australia and the United States, and teacher professional learning with a number of professional associations. He is a prolific writer, having authored, edited and contributed to numerous books, journal articles and atlases across diverse topics in the humanities and within professional domains.

Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School

David Hamper

Sarah Black is a specialist in inclusive education and has worked in pre-K–12 since joining the staff of Hills Grammar in 2010. Prior to this, she worked in a range of settings, including educational consultancy, as a positive behaviour support specialist, and as a leader of professional development across a number of key areas. Black believes strongly in the importance of building genuine and meaningful connections with students, families, staff and the wider community and understands the importance of the individual in the pre-K–12 journey. As a staff member, parent and alumnus, she is well placed to understand the value of the “original” student, both past, present and future.

Head of Junior School

Sarah Black

BRETT BASTOW, IQUMULATE PREMIUM FUNDINGs

Leadership

Geoff Gates

Director of Learning and Teaching

As the director of learning and teaching from pre-K to 12, Geoff Gates works closely with the heads of ECEC, junior school and senior school to ensure a high-quality curriculum is in place across the school. He also works closely with both curriculum leaders and teachers on projects such as cultures of thinking and deep learning, where the aim is to develop innovative, 21st-century approaches to learning and teaching. Gates started teaching at Hills Grammar in 2004. Prior to Hills, he worked in Sydney, London and Hamburg and has taught HSC, GCSE, IGCSE and IB diploma courses. His past leadership roles have included literacy coordinator, student services coordinator, and head of English. He has presented at education and university conferences on pedagogy, literature and creative writing practice. Gates completed a Master of Arts (Creative Writing) in 2007, a Master of Education (Leadership) in 2013 and a Doctor of Creative Arts degree in 2023. He is the author of two novels and has written for both professional publications and literary journals.

Director of Learning and Teaching

Geoff Gates

Yass Sidaros

Director of Co-curricular Programs

Yass Sidaros has spent over 16 years at Hills Grammar, which has enabled him to see that what works for one student may be different for another. In his role as the director of the co-curricular program, he oversees the operation and strategic development of the school's co-curricular program, ensuring it is able to maximise the opportunities for all students in their areas of interest. The program has six core areas, including music, leadership and service, sport, outdoor education, STEM and the creative, spoken and performing arts.

Director of Co-curricular Programs

Yass Sidaros

Stevens & Associates Lawyers is a leading and trusted employment law firm based in Sydney known for delivering high-quality legal expertise in the area of employment law and industrial relations across Australia, alongside a proven track record of effectively and swiftly resolving a variety of workplace law issues. In the past year, the firm’s growth has been notable. It has: • experienced a 213% growth in the number of client matters, increasing from 149 client matters in the 2022 financial year to 390 client matters in the 2023 financial year • improved its online visibility, leading to over 50 online enquiries each month and a conversion rate of client leads of up to 40% • significantly expanded the breadth and type of matters that it advises on day to day, which has increased the firm’s skillsets, diversity and resilience • expanded its community outreach by collaborating with local Sydney venues for client seminars and continuing active participation in a Sydney small/family business group Stevens & Associates Lawyers has adapted to digital trends by implementing an effective strategy with SEO and web design, resulting in a structural shift that has seen increased representation of employees where the firm previously mainly advised employers. The firm’s recognition as a “Fast Firm” attests to its momentum in the employment law space.

“IQumulate is on a technology journey, and we’re just getting started”

Wayne Tower, IQumulate Premium Funding

Christine Furner

Director of Professional Learning

Claire Napoli

Director of Advancement and Engagement

Adam Wollins

Director of ICT

Pam Chhabra

Manager – Residential Strata

Chris Furner has held a number of teaching and leadership positions across state and independent schools. A career highlight has been the completion of a PhD on how to boost teacher learning across all career stages as a means to improve practice and accelerate student learning outcomes. She enjoys developing whole-school staff development initiatives and professional learning programs that inspire and encourage teachers and leaders and coaching them towards “outstanding teaching”.

Director of Professional Learning

Christine Furner

As the director of advancement and engagement, Claire Napoli’s role encompasses internal and external communications, enrolment, branding, school events, community relations, alumni, archiving and reception. She has a degree in business and over 20 years of marketing and business development experience. Napoli started her career in public relations and event management before moving into marketing and business development roles in the professional services sector, particularly corporate law firms.

Director of Advancement and Engagement

Claire Napoli

Adam Wollins joined Hills Grammar in July 2023. He has over 20 years of experience in the education sector, including in schools, TAFEs, universities and the NSW Department of Education. He has a proven track record in the effective creation, development and leadership of high-performing ICT transformational and operational support teams.

Director of ICT

Adam Wollins

Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager. As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.

Commercial Manager

Stephen McMillan

One culmination of these efforts has been the real-world, needs-based IQEdge solution. A one-stop online quoting tool designed for both the Australian and New Zealand markets, IQEdge delivers quotes in under 60 seconds. Plus, the solution offers quote comparison and quote versioning capabilities, enabling users to review vital historical and financial data in a single page view. IQEdge can streamline and automate application processing, underwriting document verification and payment collection, cutting the need for manual labour and minimising processing errors. A digital “self-service” platform, IQEdge, reduces the need for customer and administrative support. Meanwhile, borrowers can access their accounts, make payments and manage their policies independently and through sales and support teams, which are always available for further assistance. “We’ve created a quality platform that simplifies the quoting process yet amplifies the customer experience,” says Gordon. “It’s a real game changer.” IQumulate offers an online digital quoting tool to clients. The best-in-market solution enables IQumulate to tailor funding offerings to brokers that align with their prefered distribution channel.

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What does IQumulate have in mind for the future? “IQumulate is on a technology journey, and we’re just getting started,” says Wayne Tower, CEO. “Through continuous engagement with our clients, partners, marketplace and industry, we will listen to the needs as they arise and position our business to be agile and respond to changes as they occur. “Faster decision-making innovations such as AI-powered decision support systems can expedite the underwriting and approval process, leading to quicker responses to clients. This can improve client satisfaction and potentially attract more business, creating a competitive advantage with the potential to allow IQumulate to command premium pricing or capture a larger market share. “As forward-thinkers with a digital and ‘do it better’ mindset, we collectively and proactively look to learn and improve on our customer experience for our clients, paving the way for successful business outcomes for our clients and our business in the coming years ahead. “We’re excited for the future and look forward to what’s on the horizon.”

Adam Basaldella

Manager – Claims

Product Manager

Claire Watson

Commercial Manager

Stephen McMillan

Claire Watson

Product Manager

Claire Watson

Product Manager

Claire Watson

“Titles like ‘Best School’ are the by-product of putting people first – students, teachers and families. That’s what drives excellence and innovation”

Dr Adrian Camm, Westbourne Grammar School

“We hire for character as much as capability – humble, hungry and smart – then invest deeply in their growth. That’s the engine of our success”

Dr Adrian Camm, Westbourne Grammar School

Ivan Verescuk

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director

Shaun O’Brien

Head of Underwriting

Emily Walker

Head of Strata and Development

Rex Oakman

Head of Operations and Risk

Sandy Newton

Head of Underwriting

Andrew Mitchell

Manager – NSW

Michael Prokopis

Manager – Southern Region

Pam Chhabra

Manager – Residential Strata

Jeffrey Valdivia

Manager – Commercial Strata

Adam Basaldella

Manager – Claims

Hills Grammar, nestled within 53 acres of bushland north-west of Sydney on a sandstone escarpment, is renowned for its vibrant culture, outstanding facilities and remarkable achievements. The school’s vision is to “foster each student’s potential for greatness through outstanding teaching in a unique learning environment” and is proud to be learner focused and forward looking. From Early Childhood to Year 12, this creates a nurturing community where every student’s potential is recognised and fostered. At the heart of that is a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, united by the core values of: respect integrity service excellence Hills Grammar’s facilities are designed to inspire learning and creativity. The campus provides a serene backdrop for academic and co-curricular pursuits, while classrooms are equipped with cutting-edge technology, supporting a curriculum that blends rigorous academics with interdisciplinary studies and micro-credentialing. The school’s commitment to innovation is evident in its integration of GenAI and other advanced technologies, ensuring students are prepared for the future. A standout feature is the Hills Education Passport for the Future, an initiative that recognises student achievements both inside and outside the classroom. Through micro-credentials awarded across four domains aligned with school values, students can validate their accomplishments in academics, co-curricular activities and community service. This ensures that every child is seen as more than just a grade, celebrating their diverse talents. The school’s co-curricular program, known as Connect, offers students from Kindergarten to Year 12 the chance to explore passions in sports, performing arts, STEM, leadership and more. Opportunities such as Model United Nations, Red Earth Camps, the da Vinci Decathlon, international language tours and university partnerships enrich the student experience and foster well-rounded development. . Principal Karen Yager says, “It was wisely stated that is ‘it takes a community to grow a child’. When we all work together, we can achieve amazing things. Hills was founded on the belief that every child can be extraordinary if they are immersed in an environment that enables them to thrive. Having close connections with our parents, community and alumni is integral to a rich learning environment.” A strong emphasis is placed on agency, illustrated by the student wellbeing team, student-led strategic planning and the Future Now taskforce. These empower students to shape their educational journey; for instance, it was students who wrote the school’s mobile phone policy. Wellbeing is embedded in daily life, as a proactive approach ensures every student feels connected, enabling them to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Free from religious affiliation and single-sex tradition, the school welcomes students of all backgrounds, preparing them to be creative and principled. Exceptional facilities, innovative programs and an inclusive culture make Hills Grammar a leader in Australian education. Students are taught to lead with courage and compassion, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and to the future they will inherit. Hills Grammar is committed to ensuring its students flourish as confident, proactive global citizens.

IQumulate invests in education and people, which are vital to attracting new business and talent to the company. “We have long tenures for several of our key staff, including some in leadership positions, and this sound working knowledge of our business, practices and industry provides great insights and a wealth of experience to offer our clients,” says Bastow. “Our new head of sales, Graeme Gordon, formerly manager for New Zealand, joins us in Australia to drive our sales strategy and lead our team to successful outcomes for our clients and our business. We look forward to great things ahead with Graeme as he continues to be active and present in the New Zealand market as well as building sound working relationships and new connections in Australia.” Clients can also expect a lot from working with IQumulate. “Through active engagement with our trusted broker network, IQumulate provides relevant information, education and training content,” says Graeme Gordon, head of sales. “Our clients can expect IQumulate to support their business in several ways, providing an understanding of what premium funding solutions are available and how IQumulate can spread the cost of insurance and help borrowers get the right level of insurance cover to free up their cash flow for other expenses or business growth opportunities. Premium funding is often considered a tool for those who simply cannot afford to pay their premiums in full. While this is certainly a significant driver for many, it is also successfully used by profitable companies who use premium funding to manage their cash flows more wisely or better manage their liquidity.”

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Benefits

Compensation

Culture

Diversity, equity and inclusion

Innovation

Reputation

Sustainable programs

Overall

Wellbeing is a priority, with flexible work arrangements, reduced teaching loads, allied health services and personal training. Equity and inclusion are central, reflected in a gender pay gap of ~20% in favour of women and a leadership team where seven of 11 executive roles are held by women. This people-first approach sits alongside a strong commitment to innovation. Under the stewardship of Principal Dr Adrian Camm, 2025 Australian School Principal of the Year, Westbourne has achieved record enrolments and is planning a new 1,500-student campus. Initiatives such as AI and Drone Academies, avatar technology connecting the community across 100 languages and sector-leading wellbeing programs further distinguish its offering. Extracurricular opportunities extend to competitive sports, debating and chess, delivering a TEDx talk, learning an instrument or joining the choir. Signature experiences include Space Camp and trekking to Base Camp, Mount Everest, helping students build confidence, creativity and collaboration. The school’s eSports Studio and AI Academy exemplify its commitment to leveraging technology for learning and community engagement. Looking ahead, the 2030 Strategic Map, centred on People, Place and Programs, will guide Westbourne’s next chapter. The soon-to-be-completed Middle School precinct embodies this vision, featuring flexible learning spaces, innovation labs, a student-led café and an integrated Health & Wellbeing Centre. Central to the curriculum is the GearED approach, which received the 2025 Australian Education Award for Innovation in Curriculum Design and empowers students to tackle real-world problems through hands-on learning. Westbourne’s wellbeing strategy, CARE, ensures every student is supported from their first year to final exams. Age-appropriate programs nurture resilience and meaningful relationships, while the house system and restorative practices foster empathy. Extending this commitment, Echoes and Dialogues reimagines chaplaincy as a philosophy program that encourages Socratic dialogue and ethical inquiry, inviting students to reflect deeply and engage thoughtfully with complex issues.

Blending tradition with innovation, Westbourne remains steadfast in its people-first philosophy – inspiring students to discover passions, build resilience and grow into compassionate leaders ready to shape the future.