Meet our Leadership Team

Robert Tassoni is the Principal of Lakeside College in Pakenham, Victoria, a co-educational Christian school rooted in the Lutheran tradition, where he has served since 2023. With an accomplished career spanning both the Catholic and Independent School sectors, Robert brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership, curriculum innovation, and staff development to his role at Lakeside College.

Renowned for his dynamic and forward-thinking approach, Robert has held a variety of senior leadership positions that reflect his commitment to strategic growth, operational excellence, and student-centered learning. He has successfully implemented learning management systems and developed robust reporting and documentation policies, all aimed at enhancing school operations and raising teaching and learning standards.

A person of strong faith and an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Box Hill South, Robert is guided by the gospel of Jesus Christ in all that he does. His leadership style is defined by integrity,

inclusivity, and authenticity, and he is widely respected for his ability to build meaningful relationships with both staff and students. Robert is also known for personally welcoming families to the school and nurturing strong community connections.

Committed to the holistic development of each student - mind, body, and soul. Robert ensures that Lakeside College provides a supportive and innovative learning environment. He is dedicated to the college’s vision of empowering every learner to thrive, serve, and succeed, inspired by Christian values.

Outside of his professional life, Robert is a devoted husband to Trish and the proud father of two sons. His passion for education and people continues to shape and inspire the Lakeside College community.

Amanda Trewin is a dedicated and passionate educator with nearly 20 years of experience in school settings. Currently serving as Head of Senior School, she brings a deeply holistic approach to leadership, focusing on both academic excellence and the wellbeing of every student.

Before her career in education, Amanda worked in the medical and health sciences field, where she gained a strong foundation in human development, psychology, and patient care. This background has greatly influenced her current work—she seamlessly blends educational leadership with a keen understanding of student wellbeing, mental health, and personal growth.

Throughout her career, Amanda has held a number of key leadership positions, including Faculty Head, Sports Coordinator, and Senior Wellbeing Coordinator. She has led the successful implementation of wellbeing initiatives in the secondary school setting, drawing on evidence-based psychological principles. Amanda also brings extensive experience in mentoring students, supporting both their academic progress and emotional resilience. A reflective and critical thinker, she approaches her work with insight, purpose, and a deep commitment to student growth.

Outside of work, Amanda is a proud and very busy soccer mum, a passionate advocate for sport and wellbeing, and a devoted dog lover. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her husband, supporting her children in their sporting pursuits, and, of course, training and caring for her beloved pets.

With over 30 years of experience in education, Joanne is a highly respected teacher and leader who has made a lasting impact across both primary and secondary sectors. Known for her exceptional organisational skills and unwavering dedication to student success, Joanne is committed to fostering supportive and effective learning environments that cater to the individual needs of every student.

Throughout her career, Joanne has held a range of leadership roles, including positions at Lakeside College and other independent schools, where she has provided invaluable guidance to both students and staff. Her ability to offer exceptional administrative support and forward-thinking approaches has been instrumental in driving positive change and operational efficiency within school communities.

Joanne’s broad skill set and calm, solutions-focused manner make her a trusted colleague and a natural mentor. She is passionate about educational excellence and continuous improvement, always striving to uplift those around her.

Outside of school, Joanne is a devoted mother and wife who enjoys reading and proudly supports her daughter’s involvement in baseball.

Craig's background in Education features teaching and leadership across a wide variety of Lutheran Schools in South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria. With a passion for connecting with staff and students, he has experience as a key leader and Principal across a range of school contexts.

Showing dedication over more than 35 years, Craig’s commitment to education is grounded in a strong Lutheran identity and the development of faith-based communities. He brings rich experience in both curriculum and pastoral care. Craig has successfully led schools through implementing the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. He prioritises high-impact teaching practices through an educational philosophy that focuses on the holistic development of students—academic, social, emotional, and spiritual.

Craig has a strong interest in the design of learning environments, exploring and implementing flexible, purposeful learning spaces in a number of schools. Student agency is central to His educational philosophy. By providing avenues for student voice and expanded opportunities for student leadership, he helps to strengthen student connection and engagement. Craig believes that students benefit when they are empowered to contribute to the direction of their school and share insights into their learning experiences.

Craig has developed extensive expertise in staffing, school operations, curriculum planning, and community engagement. He is committed to evidence-based approaches that improve student outcomes and the creative integration of digital technology in classrooms.

Through his leadership, Craig is focussed on enabling and equipping staff to do their best work in serving students and developing partnerships with families in the ongoing nurture of their children. Craig’s professional journey is marked by a deep faith, strategic insight, and a passion for education that nurtures students academically, emotionally, and spiritually in Christ-centred communities.

Melissa brings more than 20 years of experience in education to her role as Director of Learning and Growth at Lakeside College. With a Master of Educational Studies (Leadership) from the University of Queensland, she is passionate about creating learning environments where every child is known, supported, and encouraged to thrive.

Melissa is deeply committed to Christ-centered education and believes that God’s love should be at the heart of every learning experience. She works closely with teachers, students, and families to ensure each child has the opportunity to discover their God-given strengths while growing in both knowledge and character.

Her experience spans schools in Australia and overseas, including time as a Primary Years Programme (PYP) teacher in Sri Lanka. These experiences have enriched her understanding of diverse cultures and learning communities and strengthened her belief in inclusive, supportive classrooms for all learners.

At Lakeside, Melissa leads the development of engaging, evidence-based teaching practices across Prep to Year 12. She is passionate about hands-on, real-world learning that helps students grow in confidence, compassion, and purpose.

Melissa enjoys spending time with her husband, children, and grandchild. She has a love of reading and a deep curiosity about the world, which has taken her to many parts of the globe to learn about different cultures, beliefs, and traditions. These experiences continue to shape her view of education as a journey of growth, discovery, and connection.

Her leadership continues to inspire a learning community that is grounded in Lutheran values and focused on nurturing thoughtful, capable, and faith-filled global citizens.