Faculty Member
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Leoni McNeill
Leoni brings a wealth of experience to her role, having served in a range of leadership and academic positions across both school and higher education contexts. Her career includes roles such as Head of Primary, Pre-K to Year 6 Head of School/Principal, Head of Wellbeing, Curriculum and Programming Coordinator, Instructional Coach, and facilitator of Adult Education programs.
She is currently engaged in teaching and academic supervision at the University of Newcastle and Alphacrucis University College. Previously, she lectured and coordinated professional experience placements at St Philip’s Christian College.
Her professional experience spans both the Independent and Department of Education sectors, giving her a comprehensive understanding of diverse educational settings.
Leoni recently joined the academic team at Christian Heritage College. Central to her vocation is a deep commitment to her Christian faith, which informs and inspires her work in education.
She is passionate about equipping future educators to integrate a Christian worldview into their teaching practice, fostering a holistic and purpose-driven approach to learning. Her work is focused on developing educators who lead with integrity, faith, and a transformative vision for education.
Qualifications
Faith and spiritual formation;
Mentoring and supporting others in their personal and professional growth;
Lifelong learning and educational research;
Reading theology, leadership, and education-related literature;
Community involvement and church ministry;
Cooking, food culture, and nutrition;
Health and wellbeing, including holistic lifestyle practices;
Family time and nurturing strong relationships;
Creative planning and resource development for teaching and worship;
Outdoor walks, nature, and reflective journaling.
Research Interests
Integration of faith and values in teacher education and curriculum;
Educational leadership informed by ethical and faith-based principles;
Formation of professional identity in pre-service and early-career teachers;
Wellbeing and resilience among educators and school leaders;
The role of mentoring and instructional coaching in teacher development;
Curriculum innovation within Christian and values-based school settings;
Reflective practice and theological engagement in educational contexts;
Exploring the impact of worldview on pedagogy and classroom culture.
Professional Experience
Sessional Academic / Lecturer – Alphacrucis University College
June 2024 – Present
Sessional Academic – University of Newcastle
January 2024 – Present
Head of Primary (P–6) – Belmont Christian College
2014 – September 2023
Head of Wellbeing – Belmont Christian College
2021 – 2023
Accreditation Authority / Teacher Mentor – Belmont Christian College
January 2006 – 2023
Curriculum and Programming Coordinator – Belmont Christian College
2005 – December 2014
External Assessor – NESA / Christian Schools Australia
2007 – 2012
Primary Classroom Teacher – Various Schools
1999 – Present (reduced load since 2014)
Adult Educator and Curriculum Specialist – TAFE NSW
1984 – 1996