Our Executive Team
Craig Schmidt – Head of College
Mr Schmidt commenced teaching in 1991 and brings substantial executive educational leadership experience across State, Lutheran and Christian School sectors, with over two decades most recently spent in coeducational K-12 Christian schooling. Prior to taking up the position of Principal at Westside, he spent 10 years at St Peters Lutheran College Springfield. His roles included Deputy Principal, Head of Middle School, Junior High and Senior School and 3 years as Principal. His love of mathematics has proved invaluable in many aspects of educational leadership, such as problem solving, data collection and analysis and financial management. Passionate about life-long learning, his studies have encompassed educational leadership, theology and business management.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to serve and be a part of the Westside community. God has blessed us with a Board which has authentic concern for students, staff and families; a supportive and gracious parent community; Christian staff who are mission-focused and deeply committed; and students of joyous and generous character.
Whatever we do, we are called to work at it with all our heart, as serving the Lord. As such, I believe we have a mandate for excellence, to be and do our best in order that we might use the fullness of our gifts and abilities to be of service to others, for the common good and the glory of God.”
BHMS(Ed) - Bachelor of Human Movement Studies (Education) with a Mathematics Major.
MEd - Master of Education
MBA - Master of Business Administration with Distinction
MEdTheol – Master of Education and Theology
Kathryn Innes – Head of Primary
Mrs Kathryn Innes has served in the field of Education for almost 30 years, bringing a depth of experience and a relational approach to leadership. She started teaching in State Education before moving to Westside Christian College in 1999, where she taught a range of Junior and Senior Primary year levels, as well as coordinating Secondary Christian Studies for a season. She served as the Years 1–3 Team Coordinator and then as Head of Junior Primary, before being appointed Head of Primary in 2022. Kathryn has guided the Primary school through periods of structural change with clarity and compassion, remaining deeply committed to building strong relationships, meaningful connections, and a vibrant sense of community.
“I am passionate about the holistic formation of students through Christian education, helping them embrace an abundant life founded on faith, love, and excellence. Westside has been my home for many years, and it brings me joy to see generations of families return and continue to foster relationships built on such a rich heritage. The quality education Westside offers goes far beyond the classroom walls, and our God-centred community is our heartbeat.”
BA - Bachelor of Arts (English and History)
Grad Dip Ed - Graduate Diploma of Education
Rob Pattearson – Head of Secondary
Now Head of Secondary, Mr. Pattearson joined the Westside Community in 2024 as the Secondary Careers & Pathways Coordinator. He brings a wealth of experience from his eight years as Head of Senior School at Redlands College, and from previous positions as Head of Mathematics at two different independent schools. Mr Pattearson is passionate about students pursuing their God-given gifts and talents to serve others. He believes that this is best achieved when the College works in partnership with students, families and the Westside Community.
"It is a privilege to be able to serve in a community that is focused on equipping young people for a future of service for the common good. It is such a blessing to see teachers who genuinely care about their students, students who are keen to grow and families who are so supportive of the Christ-centred education their students receive."
BEd - Bachelor of Education
BSc - Bachelor of Science
MEd - Master of Education
Cawood Davies - Head of Operations
Arriving from South Africa in 2006, Mr Davies began working for Northern Territory Christian Schools, firstly as a houseparent at Woolaning Homeland Christian College and then as CFO for Northern Territory Christian Schools for over 10 years. Mr Davies accepted the position of Business Manager at Westside Christian College in 2017 and is a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA).
“Part of my role at Westside is to optimise planning and detailed budgeting for present and future growth. I am fortunate to be supported by an experienced team in the Business Office. The staff at Westside have excellent standards, and a heart to serve their local community. The College is also fortunate that the Board, Head of College and Executive leadership, have a very clear commitment to prayerfully serve in their roles.”