Senior Leadership Team
Cushla Shepherd
Principal
Cushla Shepherd
Demian Shaver
Associate Principal
Demian Shaver
Sarah Guise
Deputy Principal
Sarah Guise
As Deputy Principal I have the pleasure of being an integral part of the leadership team, helping to create the most engaging and nurturing environment for our learners. I am passionate about educating and connecting with our young people, and believe they keep me young too! I am a fond traveller, a new beekeeper, and an animal enthusiast.
Dawn Ross
Deputy Principal
Dawn Ross
Nicola Kaiwai
Assistant Principal of Curriculum/Academia, & Head of PE & Health
Nicola Kaiwai
I provide quality instruction and motivation in a supportive classroom environment, as I challenge students to take responsibility for their own learning and activity needs. I graduated from Pepperdine University in Malibu, after being awarded a tennis scholarship. I enjoy mountain biking, morning latte’s at the beach and reading autobiographies.
Grant Macpherson
Assistant Principal of Pastoral Care, & Dean of Makomako Whanau
Grant Mcpherson
Highly motivated, passionate Middle Leader with over 25 years’ experience. Have specialised in both Homeroom and Physical Education, predominantly from Years 7 – 10. Enjoy creating positive relationships and lifelong learners. Married with 4 children. Follow lots of different sports, especially cricket and rugby.
Heads of Learning
Shelley Brockelsby
Head of Year 8
Shelley Brockelsby
AJHS, and Ruru, in particular, has been my home since 2005. I am passionate about our students and ensuring we provide a buzz to their four-year experience. My responsibilities around the school include HOLA Year 8 and Teacher In Charge of Buses. I also enjoy helping out at various EOTC and Arts Department activities to give our students the best of times.
Natalie Goslin
Technology
Natalie Goslin
Technology Teacher & SCT. I joined AJHS in 2015. Passionate about developing innovative teaching and learning. Hockey player and coach who loves to see youth in sport. I have a passion for design and technology which syncs perfectly to my areas of teaching. BVA, Grad Dip Secondary.
Helen Haine
Head of Year 7
Helen Haine
Kia ora, ko Helen Haine tōku ingoa. AJHS became my teaching home in 2015. I love coaching learners to achieve, find their individual passions and enjoy the journey. If I’m not in my homeroom you’ll probably find me in the Science labs, the library, backstage at our productions, engaged in collaborative learning conversations with colleagues, or in search of my next coffee. Proudly straddling the line between geek and nerd, I find joy in knowing stuff about stuff. Head of Year 7, Homeroom and Science kaiako (teacher), visiting Evaluating Lecturer of student teachers for both Massey University and AUT.
Nicola Kaiwai
Assistant Principal of Curriculum/Academia, &PE & Health
Nicola Kaiwai
I provide quality instruction and motivation in a supportive classroom environment, as I challenge students to take responsibility for their own learning and activity needs. I graduated from Pepperdine University in Malibu, after being awarded a tennis scholarship. I enjoy mountain biking, morning latte’s at the beach and reading autobiographies.
Wendy You
Mathematics
Wendy You
I am a qualified teacher in both Korea and New Zealand. I have been teaching since 2003 and have started working at AJHS in 2018. My passionate areas of teaching are Mathematics and Year 7 Homeroom. I am a true believer in a growth mindset and I love teaching!
Martene Matthews
Science
Martene Matthews
I have worked as a Science teacher for over 25 years in both the UK and New Zealand. Before teaching I worked as a naturalist and I am still involved in conservation through the Kaipatiki project. I am married with two children.
Kristin Noom-Duckworth
Languages
Kristin Noom-Duckworth
Head of Languages, TIC of Japanese. 24 years of experience as a secondary teacher of Japanese and English. I am passionate about empowering students to think critically by motivating them to see patterns in the world around them and create a love of learning. Making connections with students and being an authentic person with a good sense of humour are important to me.
Kirsten Saunders
Arts
Kirsten Saunders
HOLA The Arts, HOD Music, passionate educator of 26 years, fulfilling my vocation to enable my students to find their voice, and discovering their own passion and purpose. Married to Mark for 25 years with 4 children, 2 currently at AJHS. Described as a “show junkie,” also loves Musical Theatre and keeping fit.
Shelley-Ann Wilson
English
Shelley-Ann Wilson
With nearly 30 years of teaching experience in South Africa, Ireland, and New Zealand, I am a specialist teacher of English, Media, and Film Studies. Head of the Learning Areas English and ESOL, my qualifications include a BA, HDipEd, MEd in Literacy and Numeracy Development as well as a TEFL Dip.
Ruru Whanau
Niamh Curd
Homeroom Teacher
Niamh Curd
I’m new to teaching and excited to start as a Year 8 homeroom teacher. I attended AJHS as a student, and i’m going full circle coming back as a teacher!
I want to help our akoranga learn in a fun and inviting environment, as well as connecting with their whanau.
I love collecting books, plants and crystals and i’m a qualified diver. I also love spending time in the outdoors.
Simon Dennan
Homeroom Teacher
Simon Dennan
I have been a teacher since 1988, and strive to create a classroom atmosphere that is both fun and challenging.
In my spare time i enjoy reading poetry, playing my guitar and hanging out at the beach.
Aimee Deutschmann
Assistant Dean of Ruru Whanau
Aimee Deutschmann
Rachel Houkamou
Ruru Whanau Teacher & International Student Dean
Rachel Houkamou
I am passionate about teaching and helping young people to reach their potential. I am secondary trained and returned to teaching after having my 4 amazing children. I enjoy the energy and enthusiasm my students bring to the classroom, and I love being a Year 7 Homeroom teacher at AJHS.
Jess Houlding
Homeroom Teacher
Jess Houlding
I am a Year 7 Homeroom and Whānau teacher in Ruru, and this is my first full-time teaching position. I have a ‘try everything and anything’ attitude, but if asked what my passions are they have always been around sports and outdoor education.
As a past student of AJHS myself, I strive to create the same lasting relationships that my own teachers had with me. Through this, my goal is to create a learning environment that is not only enjoyable, but also inclusive of every single student that comes my way.
Nikki Jones
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Nikki Jones
As a HPE Teacher and TIC of Sports Academy, I use my competitive sporting background to motivate students towards making positive and healthy lifestyle choices in and beyond the classroom. I row surf boats for Orewa SLSC, play football, and keep fit through CrossFit and weightlifting.
Loena McCormack
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Loena McCormack
Experienced teacher of secondary school English and a whanau teacher. I have wide and varied interests outside school in the arts and theatre.
Jo Molloy
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Jo Molloy
Teacher of Fabric Tech at AJHS since 2007. My degree is a BA in Fabric Technology, majoring in costume design which is a continuing passion of mine. I believe my job is to help unlock the creativity and problem-solving skills of all learners and I enjoy seeing where that takes them.
Ronesh Naidu
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Ronesh Naidu
I have been extremely fortunate to teach at AJHS which values the learning relationship between teachers and students.
I appreciate the opportunity to be able to support and help students improve their confidence in learning hard materials, which is my area of expertise. My passion lies in developing talents and preparing the leaders of tomorrow with lifelong success and wisdom. It has been a great pleasure to work with a school full of people with so much aroha for the well-being of all learners at AJHS.
I live locally with my wife, Rinuma, and enjoy playing and watching sports, especially football.
Daniel Oades
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Daniel Oades
I’m married with two children, and my interests include photography, music, mountain biking and fitness.
Rachel Pattemore
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Rachel Pattemore
I teach because I’m passionate about empowering children to know their strengths and own their learning journeys. My favourite place to breath deeply is the ocean, and I’m rediscovering a love for swimming later in life. I am lucky enough to have 3 amazing children who are 16, 14 and 9; they inspire me and keep me on my toes every day. I started teaching at AJHS in 2022 and I am a Year 7 Homeroom and Science Teacher. “He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata”: What is the most important thing in the world? It is the people, it is the people, it is the people
Sam Smith
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Sam Smith
Father, husband, Health & PE Teacher, ex-soldier, & avid sports fan. In my classes, I hope to promote sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal growth, over a must-win attitude. I find physical education to be a great stress reliever, an escape from frustrations, and an opportunity to strengthen one’s self no matter if winning or losing.
Ian Tagg
Dean of Ruru Whanau
Ian Tagg
One of my strongest attributes is establishing excellent relationships with my students, their families, and the wider community. Teaching has given me many opportunities, one of the most important is the ability to interact with a range of backgrounds, beliefs, cultures, and families. This forms the foundation for learning success.
Kiwi Whanau
Rod Caudwell
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Rod Caudwell
Fun in the classroom, high expectations, and energy are three things I bring to the classroom environment. I follow all sports and coach futsal. A family man with three children, one of which attends AJHS. Experienced outdoor instructor having worked around the world in that capacity. Experienced Te Reo Maori teacher.
Stephanie Cave
Kiwi Whanau Teacher & Year 8 Assistant HOLA
Stephanie Cave
I am passionate about everything I do. I believe in a sociocultural approach to learning so that every student has a sense of belonging in the classroom. I strive to be the necessary bridge between home and school. I am a lifelong learner. I have a GradDipTchg (Primary), Dip (ECE), and an MBA (USA). I have two children, and in my spare time, I love to bake and play tennis.
Ashmita Dawad
Dean of Kiwi Whanau
Ashmita Dawad
Being enthusiastic, kind, resourceful, and efficient are qualities I strive for while keeping my sense of humour. Together with my love of teaching Maths and helping students succeed, is the need to care for and have happy students. Family, friends, hiking, reading, having fun, and relaxing are what make me happy.
Cristina Flores de Morales
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Cristina Flores de Morales
Teacher in charge of Spanish at AJHS since 2012. Within School COL leader. Passionate about education and helping our children succeed in this fast-paced world. Background in Small Business, Travel, Telecommunications, Linguistics, Psychology, and Spanish Literature. Married with three adult daughters. We love the outdoors and helping our local community through surf life-saving.
Susanna Guo
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Susanna Guo
Mandarin and ESOL teacher for 1 year in Taiwan, 3 years in China, and 6 years in New Zealand. My passion is teaching languages, which means learning a different way of thinking and culture that allows us to explore new aspects of ourselves and the world. My mission is to help students to become curious and passionate lifelong learners. Mother of two girls. I love dance, music, and art and help the local community through various church services.
Karen Ifopo
Homeroom Teacher
Karen Ifopo
I love being an educator, and see myself as a lifelong learner – something I hope to instil in our students.
I’m Samoan and proud of my cultural heritage, and I really look forward to getting to know all of our students this year, as well as connect with any Pasifika students and whanau.
In my spare time I enjoy travel, op shopping, walking, going to live theatre and performing arts, and seeing our stories being told.
Heather Jenkins
Social Studies Teacher
Heather Jenkins
Kia ora tātou,
Over the past 27 years I have been teaching in schools in Auckland and Taranaki. I have also taught in France.
We learn something new every day in this job, alongside marvellous, energetic young people!
I have a son and a daughter, both studying at university. My interests include long walks with my German Shepherd, ocean swimming, good coffee at the weekend, and French music and cinema.
I recently qualified as a TBRI© practitioner, having spent time out of the classroom learning about trauma-informed approaches to education.
Sunmyoung Kim
Music Teacher
Sunmyoung Kim
I joined AJHS as an Arts Coordinator in 2020 and then Music Teacher in 2023.
I have a degree in Music Composition and Sonic Arts, which has equipped me with a unique skill set to teach students modern methods for an emerging digital generation.
My main goal as teacher is to equip students with a lifelong passion for music and transferable skills for the real world.
Poppy Kirkflexton
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Poppy Kirkflexton
I am a specialist teacher of Visual art and photography. With a Masters degree in Fine Arts, I bring a depth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom, inspiring students to explore their creativity and hone their skills.
I am passionate about education and the transformative power of the arts, and I am dedicated to empowering students to reach their full artistic potential.
Rinuma Krishna
Social Studies Teacher
Rinuma Krishna
Lisa Lumsden
Homeroom Teacher
Lisa Lumsden
I am a passionate, enthusiastic teacher who loves being in the classroom and learning with my students. I have been at AJHS as a Y7 Homeroom teacher since 2014 and have enjoyed observing and cultivating the learning journeys of many wonderful students as they grow and excel through the years at our school. As a Y7 Maths teacher, I am passionate about making maths learning fun and accessible, and I strive to assist and support the Student Leaders in our school as a Leader Mentor.
Toby Reynolds
Homeroom Teacher
Toby Reynolds
As a teacher, I believe in setting high expectations, not only for academic achievement but also for personal growth and development.
Building strong relationships with each student is at the heart of everything I do. I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.
And let’s not forget the importance of laughter and humor in the learning process!
Meghan Sutton
Assistant Dean of Kiwi Whanau
Meghan Sutton
I am a Dance teacher, Year 8 teacher and Assistant Whanau Leader. I am passionate about Dance and the Performing Arts. I aim to make a difference in the lives of the students that I teach, support and inspire them to find their own passion and love for learning.
Turanita Tipene
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Turanita Tipene
Kaiako (teacher) of year 7 homeroom and whānau class. I am a life-long learner, Māori-Pasifika wife, and mother of 4 sons. We have returned to Tamaki Makaurau Auckland after time in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, where I was a teacher aide and kaiako in the bilingual space. I enjoy sports, sci-fi/fantasy, Kapa Haka, and I am passionate about hauora health and wellbeing. It is a privilege to walk alongside tamariki and rangatahi at AJHS as they grow into our citizens of the future.
Makomako Whanau
Stewart Allan
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Stewart Allan
Have taught at AJHS for 15 years. As a teacher in charge of Drama, I enjoy seeing students explore their creativity and develop their abilities. I am married with two sons.
Sarah Allfrey
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Sarah Allfrey
I studied microbiology and biotechnology at University and worked in a biotech lab for a couple of years before training to become a teacher.
I love learning about how things work, and even more, how we can apply that knowledge to make useful processes or products.
I love building strong relationships with my students which I see as one of the best ways of helping them to learn and grow to their fullest potential.
My creative outlet is sewing; this became a big passion of mine after I had children, who love to wear what I make.
Victoria Booth
Assistant Dean of Makomako Whanau
Victoria Booth
Science teacher / Assistant Whanau Leader. Originally from Manchester, my passion for travel landed me in this beautiful country in 2014. Ensuring student well-being through effective pastoral care is my principal objective. I encourage students to question and connect with the natural phenomena of the world around them, through a scientific lens.
Hannah Bullen
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Hannah Bullen
I love being creative and active.
Michael Clark
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Michael Clark
Samantha Darnley
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Samantha Darnley
With a degree in Biochemistry and a plan to win the Nobel Prize, a chance comment made me decide to teach instead. I trained in England and moved to this fabulous country fourteen years ago. As an experienced primary teacher, I am passionate about developing independent learners. Funnily enough, I also teach science.
Jinky De Lara
Makomako Science Teacher
Jinky De Lara
Kumusta? Ako si Jinky De Lara mula sa bansang Pilipinas.
Since I started teaching in 2005, it has been my goal to create a learning space where positive and supportive relationships thrive. I strive to unleash learners’ potential by building meaningful connections with them and their whānau.
I was drawn to Aotearoa because of its natural scenery that promotes a feeling of well-being. Hence during my spare time, I enjoy taking some time out to relax and unwind at the beach with my family.
Nazila Khan
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Nazila Khan
I moved to New Zealand in 2017 with my husband, and absolutely love Aotearoa.
I am a fully certified teacher currently teaching mathematics. I love teaching – watching children learn & develop is inspirational.
In my spare time I like listening to music, socialising and exploring new concepts.
Grant Macpherson
Assistant Principal of Pastoral Care & Dean of Makomako Whanau
Grant Mcpherson
Highly motivated, passionate Middle Leader with over 25 years’ experience. Have specialised in both Homeroom and Physical Education, predominantly from Years 7 – 10. Enjoy creating positive relationships and lifelong learners. Married with 4 children. Follow lots of different sports, especially cricket and rugby.
Maddy Mills
Assistant Head of Year 7
Maddy Mills
I joined AJHS as a year 7 Homeroom teacher in 2021. My passion in the classroom is literacy and I love getting to share this with my students. I try to make learning fun for my students and enjoy getting to learn new things alongside them. Outside the classroom, I like to spend time outdoors keeping active.
Sally Rowe
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Sally Rowe
Enthusiastic teacher of Human Bio & Science. Involved in education throughout my career: secondary school teacher, outdoor educator, paramedic & paramedic lecturer. Married with two girls, both who have been through AJHS. Passionate about life – recreation in the outdoors, rock-climbing, sea-kayaking & heavily involved in surf life-saving.
Carleen Thomas
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Carleen Thomas
I am a creative, enthusiastic teacher with 20 years experience teaching across various levels.
I joined the Albany Junior High School Team in 2017. I uphold high expectations of all my students, and enjoy encouraging them to discover their passions and aspire towards excellence in all they do.
My aim as an educator is to foster a calm, nurturing environment where students can grow to be the best they can be, and to constantly inspire my students to flourish in their learning.
Tui Whanau
Maria Barnard
Tui Whanau Teacher
Maria Barnard
“I love what I do, and I do what I love…” I am a Secondary trained teacher with a great passion for growing and teaching young minds, whilst walking alongside them, in becoming wholesome contributors to our society, as they are our future. I have been teaching for 17 years and love the challenges that teaching brings. I have great communication skills that work well alongside my students who have varying academic abilities. I am innovative and love the increasing demand teaching brings, especially through digital learning.
Tania Betterton
Tui Whanau Teacher
Tania Betterton
Rachel Braham
Tui Whanau Teacher
Rachel Braham
Samid Buksh
Tui Whanau Teacher
Samid Buksh
A highly ambitious, energetic and passionate mathematics and physics teacher, I have many years of teaching experience both here in NZ and in Fiji.
I love building positive relationships with everyone around me, and I am always there when it comes to a child’s learning, extra-curricular activities and well-being.
I enjoy playing and coaching various sports, especially football, badminton and volleyball.
Michael Callon
Assistant Dean of Tui Whanau
Michael Callon
A teacher of Homeroom, P E, and Health for 6 years. Playing and coaching sport is a passion and I bring many aspects of this to the classroom. My goal is to create an engaging and authentic environment where our students can enjoy learning and discover their passions.
Emma Edwards
Homeroom Teacher – Tui
Emma Edwards
Liz Fox
Tui Whanau Teacher
Liz Fox
Maths teacher at AJHS since 2016. Why is mathematics so important? Mathematics engages the rigor of logic as well as the creativity within each of us. I love teaching maths because it is so satisfying to solve problems and it is a gateway subject that opens many career doors for students.
Jamie Gresham
Tui Whanau Teacher
Jamie Gresham
I have been teaching for 9 years and love every minute of it.
My goal as a teacher is to make learning memorable and addictive. My energy is my greatest asset.
I stay active by running, gyming and playing AFL.
Karen Henshaw
Tui Whanau Teacher
Karen Henshaw
Kia ora, ko Karen Henshaw ahau.
I’m passionate about mathematics and sport, and love seeing lightbulb moments as learners discover something new and make connections.
I believe learning for all learners should be challenging, creative and fun.
Originally from the UK, i now reside on the wild west coast and can often be found in the surf at Muriwai!
Sarah Manning
Dean of Tui Whanau
Sarah Manning
Gina Morkel
Assistant Head of Learning Mathematics
Gina Morkel
Born to teach Mathematics. Been teaching Maths since 1996. Qualified Secondary Maths teacher but teaching at AJHS since 2014. I treat students in my classes as if they were my own. Good sense of humour, volleyball coach, married and a mum of 3. Value honesty, integrity and mutual respect.
Edwina Nelson
Tui Whanau Teacher
Edwina Nelson
Teacher of Mathematics, with a passion to cultivate relationships with my students, colleagues, and the wider community. I value honesty, mutual respect, and integrity highly. Married with 2 kids.
Tony Sargisson
Tui Whanau Teacher
Tony Sargisson
As a teacher I am passionate about learning and developing this passion in the students in my class. Building deep and positive relationships with the students helps to foster and develop this further. My goal is to make learning fun, engaging, and relevant; setting the students up for future success.
I am married with five children (three biological and two step), two dogs, and four cats.
Being a former international athlete I am still keen on keeping fit through walking and cycling.
Ellen Wallace
Tui Whanau Teacher
Ellen Wallace
Teacher, wife, mother of two, and all-around awesome Canadian! My passion is to encourage students to reach their unique potential, challenging them whilst supporting them to love learning. I love those lightbulb moments! I spend my time outdoors, walking, reading, travelling, and having fun with my family.
Jessica Wells
Tui Whanau Teacher
Jessica Wells
I have taught in NZ, UK and South Africa (Cape Town). I love supporting students to find themselves as a learner and as an individual. I believe in a team dynamic in the learning process, where students actively participate in the school journey and I help make it work best for them.
I am a classical singer with NZ Opera Chorus, Voices NZ Chamber Choir, and local chamber choirs: Viva Voce and Luminata. I also tread the boards with Torbay Theatre.
Debra Wood
Tui Whanau Teacher
Debra Wood
I am Head of the Digital Curriculum and enjoy all aspects of Digital Technologies including Technological Design and Developmental processes. My teaching passion is programming and scripting with a variety of different languages (i.e. HTML, CSS, Javascript, Python, Basic, C). I also enjoy electronics and robotics. I hold a degree in Computer Science and a Masters in Education. A lifelong learner, I am currently studying research stats and the impact of autonomy and independent thinking on student knowledge, attitude, and skill acquisition.
Learning Support / Teacher Aides / ESOL
Jessica Carroll
Teacher Aide
Jessica Carroll
As a past student of AJHS, I find myself beyond enthused to come back as a Teacher Aide.
I have a huge passion for helping people develop and encouraging students to feel excited to come to school. It’s a privilege to work with the future members of our society. I’m looking forward to becoming a qualified teacher and continuing my career in the teaching profession.
Gemma Gresham
Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo)
Gemma Gresham
As a SENCo, I enjoy the diversity of students I get to work with, whilst also supporting teachers to ensure all different learning needs are met.
Susanna Guo
ESOL Teacher
Susanna Guo
Mandarin and ESOL teacher for 1 year in Taiwan, 3 years in China, and 6 years in New Zealand. My passion is teaching languages, which means learning a different way of thinking and culture that allows us to explore new aspects of ourselves and the world. My mission is to help students to become curious and passionate lifelong learners. Mother of two girls. I love dance, music, and art and help the local community through various church services.
Shaquile Iuli
Teacher Aide
Shaquile Iuli
Talofa Lava. As a passionate All Blacks fan and former AJHS student, I have the pleasure of returning as a Teacher Aide.
I enjoy making our students’ learning fun, and bringing high energy to each lesson.
As a former rugby and basketball player, hard work and discipline are core values that have been instilled into me from a young age attending Albany Junior High School, and I hope to teach our students the same principles.
Murray Lawes
Teacher Aide
Murray Lawes
I have an LLB and an Arts Degree with a major in Education. After a number of years working in the business field, I felt it was time to do something more positive and to turn to my earlier interest in teaching. I am thoroughly enjoying working as a Teacher Aide. I get to work with students and help them do the best they are able to, all without the abundance of planning teachers have to do, and the meetings they have to attend!
Kerry Oliver
Teacher Aide
Kerry Oliver
Have joined the Learning Support Team this year from Primary School level. I have supported students from years 0-6 since 2007 and enjoy the one-on-one or small group learning sessions involving reading, maths, and literacy. Love it when students light up when they’ve “got it”. My 3 daughters all attended AJHS and I now get why they had so much fun.
Kaori Senior
Teacher Aide
Kaori Senior
I am the mother of two boys and have been a Teacher Aide since 2012, staring in Queensland.
I joined AJHS in 2016 and love teaching young students literacy and numeracy. I’m passionate about music and books.
I hold an Associate Degree of Arts majoring in English, and gained Cert III in Travel & Tourism and in Education Support too.
Pam Thomson
Teacher Aide
Pam Thomson
Working one-on-one or in small groups helps students understand, becoming more confident in their abilities.
Veronica Zane
Teacher in Charge – ESOL
Veronica Zane
I started teaching in 1984 and have experiences in both primary and secondary schools – mostly teaching ESOL in NZ.
I seek various strategies to help students reach their potential, and i reinforce and acknowledge their efforts.
I am from Chinese and Indonesian heritage, and value learning a different culture and language.
I enjoy reading and listening to classical music. I am married with a son.
Support Staff
Cathy Abel
Attendance/DP’s support
Cathy Abel
Bevan Armstrong
Landscape Gardener
Bevan Armstrong
I enjoy tending the gardens at AJHS and hope the students enjoy the relaxing natural environment we create.
Paula Cole
Science Technician
Paula Cole
I was a Primary School teacher for 27 years. I am now the Science technician at AJHS and love the varied nature of my busy, full-time role. I have worked in schools all my life and love being around young, curious, growing minds. I have 2 adult sons and have been involved in their many sporting ventures over the years.
Mandy Farrington
Data Systems Manager
Mandy Farrington
I am the System Director, providing support to the SLT and teachers, I love a challenge and solving problems. I have been fortunate enough to be working at AJHS family since May 2018. I have been working in the school environment since 2003.
Maxine Johnson
Student Desk
Maxine Johnson
I work alongside the Admin team and you will find me at Student Reception. I love working at AJHS with the amazing staff. I used to be a foster carer in the UK before moving to NZ in 2007. I have 3 grown-up children and 2 grandchildren. I love watching our students start in Year 7 and develop into mature confident teenagers.
Jackie Lawes
School Accounts
Jackie Lawes
I have worked in the Finance team at AJHS since early 2020. I enjoy working with the staff, parents, and children within the AJHS family. I have two school-age children that keep me very busy outside office hours.
Shawn Martin
Groundsman
Shawn Martin
I enjoy tending the gardens at AJHS and hope the students enjoy the relaxing natural environment we create.
Jo Monkton
Sports Coordinator
Jo Monkton
I have been at AJHS since 2009 in the role of Sports Coordinator. I have a passion for sport, especially youth being involved in sport. I am committed to getting as many people involved in sport as possible, not only for the physical but also for the mental and emotional benefits. I love what I do and really enjoy working with the great staff and students at AJHS.
Maree Nolan
Principal’s PA
Maree Nolan
I am part of the Admin team here, providing support to the Principal and the wider SLT, and have been with AJHS since 2017. I am also Secretary for the Board of Trustees. Proud to be working with a passionate and diverse range of teachers and support staff.
Andrea Osborne
Technology Support Technician
Andrea Osborne
Technology Support Technician. Married with two children who both came to AJHS. I immigrated in 2005 from England as we loved what NZ had to offer. I have a passion for engaging children in the new and interesting things technology offers. I am a qualified ice skating coach ( BITA) and spent 19 years working in a bank to become a manager gaining FPC & Ce MAP. I love where my new career is taking me.
Steve Peach
Senior Counsellor
Steve Peach
Senior Guidance Counsellor: My passion is to assist young people of all ages and ethnicities to be able to live at their optimum levels of well-being. I believe this is possible by using customised counselling approaches that suit the personal and cultural needs of the individual. I am experienced with helping people find ways to develop and utilise their strengths when they are struggling and feeling overwhelmed with their personal circumstances.
Shelley Penn
Main Reception/Enrolments
Shelley Penn
I started at AJHS in 2015 as a Learning Support Assistant and enjoy working with the students and staff.
I’m a mum of two – both children have attended AJHS and loved their time here.
Jose Pereira
Caretaker
Jose Pereira
Property Maintenance Assistant. I have behind me a forty-year banking career starting at the bottom as a bill of exchange clerk, progressing through administration, accounting, resources management to consumer credit management of a cluster of 23 large branches. Woodwork, metalwork, and home and vehicle maintenance have been a part of my life since pre-school days.
Andrea Probert-Southam
School Nurse
Andrea Probert-Southam
I trained as a nurse in the UK in the 90’s, and have been in NZ since 2013. I’ve worked in different environments, including hospitals and the community, loving the role as a health educator and triage nurse.
I have experience in chronic health conditions as well as urgent cares, and strive to give holistic care, using our team to provide wrap-around suport and resources when required.
I live with my family (and several rescue animals) on the North Shore, so you may see/hear me on the weekends either supporting local sports teams or with a net, trying to help animals!
Jo Ramsay
Librarian
Jo Ramsay
Julia Scott
Marketing, Brand & Communications Manager
Julia Scott
I enjoy making sure our marketing and communications are professional and meaningful. AJHS has an incredibly dedicated team of teachers and a very talented student body, so my role of bringing information to life is not hard, with the passion and skills we have around us.
Debbie Skillcorn
Service Coordinator
Debbie Skillcorn
I am an enthusiastic, bubbly, confident person who realises the opportunity to exceed expectations.
I love hosting – looking after people and making them feel welcomed and valued.
In my spare time i am an avid crafter, and also tutor students who need to catch-up.
Siu Kau Tai
Caretaker Assistant
Siu Kau Tai
Part of the Grounds/Property team. I enjoy what I do and hope the students like the spaces we create for them.
Miriam Taylor
Counsellor
Miriam Taylor
I am a part-time Counsellor at AJHS. I am trained in person-centered counselling, and am passionate about the formation and education of our students. In nurturing their mental health and building their resilience, I aim to promote their overall development and improve their ability to manage future life challenges.
Bruce Wang
Business Manager
Bruce Wang
I am the business manager at Albany Junior High School since 2017. I am a father of two sons. I have over 15 years of financial controlling, operational management, and property management experience. I have been dealing with muti- government agencies (CYFS, DOC, MOE, MOH, etc.).
Alex Wansink
Assistant Sports Coordinator
Alex Wansink
A recent AUT graduate with a bachelor’s degree in sport and recreation, I’m passionate about youth coaching and player and coach development. I have a particular interest in netball and athletics but am a huge advocate for trying out as many sports as possible. I strongly believe in the values and principles sport teaches us, and hope to encourage AJHS students to be active and pursue any and all sporting endeavours.
Sandra Ware
Library Manager
Sandra Ware
Gillian Watson
Student Accounts
Gillian Watson
I have worked with the fabulous admin team for a number of years in the student accounts office dealing with the lovely parents and student payments.
I have 3 kids and moved to NZ from the UK in 2008.
International Department
Juyoung Kim
International Student Director
Juyoung Kim
International Students Director, I immigrated to NZ with my family in 2001 from Korea. It was not easy to adopt a different culture and lifestyle in a foreign country. However, I was given various cultural experiences and opportunities at AJHS. I am very happy that I am able to share my experiences with our international students.
Andrea Edwards
International Homestay Coordinator
Andrea Edwards
Having experienced homestays myself, I understand the challenges of settling into study in a new country. Coming from a background in teaching foreign languages and ESOL, I am passionate about encouraging students to explore and enjoy the experiences of a new culture.
In my spare time I enjoy travelling, playing and coaching lawn bowls, embroidery and cooking food from various cultures.
Anna Xu
International Administrator
Anna Xu
Hello, I’m Anna Xu, I’ve been the International Administrator and Chinese Liaison Officer since 2019.
My aim is to provide exceptional education and support for our international students.
I thoroughly enjoy spending time with our lovely students, and many of my students remain close friends even after graduation.
