Senior Leadership Team
Cushla Shepherd
Principal
Cushla Shepherd
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
Demian Shaver
Deputy Principal
Demian Shaver
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
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
Nikki Best
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Nikki Best
Love life, love learning. AJHS Within School COL representative. Futures Advisor – Head of Careers. Assistant Head of English. Teaching English is my happy place. Music, innovation, philosophy, creative thinking, and problem-solving are just a few of my favourite things. My most priceless asset is my own four children.
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.
Aimee Deutschmann
Assistant Whanau Leader – Ruru
Aimee Deutschmann
Peter Harpur
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Peter Harpur
Year 7 Homeroom teacher and teach maths in Year 7. This is my first year at AJHS but I have 20 years of experience in various schools. I am enthusiastic about ILEs and collaborative teaching as this leads to collaborative learning.
Rachel Houkamou
Ruru Whanau Teacher
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.
Suhanna Karma
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Suhanna Karma
I enjoy sharing my love for language and literature with my students. I have a Masters’s Degree in Applied Linguistics and I have taught English at secondary level for over 10 years. I believe learning should take place in a warm, friendly, and supportive environment, and I strive for my classrooms to embody those values.
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.
Bernie McGinley
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Bernie McGinley
Specialist classroom teacher in Year 8 with strength in Learning Support. I also teach English, Social Studies, and E.S.O.L. Over many years I have enjoyed teaching, adapting to new learning environments, changes, and challenges of teaching in the 21st Century. I am married, have three adult children, and currently two grandchildren.
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.
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
Derick Singh
Ruru Whanau Teacher
Derick Singh
I am a teacher with a strong passion for teaching and learning – alongside my interest in character development. Travelling and experiencing different cultures of the world has shown me that success is very subjective, and can be achieved with hard work, determination, and resilience. I look forward to working with the AJHS community to achieve greater heights. My areas of interest are English for Academic Purposes, English Literacy, and ESOL Consultation.
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
Whanau Leader – Ruru
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
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
Whanau Leader – Kiwi
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.
Joo Yeon Lee
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Joo Yeon Lee
Began teaching in 2015 in South Korea and joined AJHS in 2019. I embrace diversity within our communities and value the contribution students and whanau bring to our schools and classrooms. I am passionate about student engagement, resilience, and achievement.
Michelle Leeuwenburgh
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Michelle Leeuwenburgh
Specialist teacher of French for 13 years. Passionate about teaching the language and educating young learners using the AIM method (Accelerative Interactive Method). Every word has a gesture, learning through song and theatrics for beginners and more in-depth in continuant classes. I prepare students to continue French at a senior level.
Lisa Lumsden
Assistant Whanau Leader – Kiwi
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.
Tracey Newton
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Tracey Newton
I love being an inspiring educator and have enjoyed teaching at various year levels over the past two decades.
I am particularly passionate about enabling students to explore their creative side through the Arts, digital learning, and sport.
In my free time I enjoy taking my dogs Indi and Cuba out on adventures. I have previously taught at AJHS and am very excited to be back on the Year 7 team.
Carleen Thomas
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Carleen Thomas
I am the teacher in charge of Visual Art at AJHS. I have taught as an Art Specialist across all years from years 0-10. I love the vibrant creativity of the art room each day and seeing my students explore their curiosity and nurture their creative potential on their journey as artists.
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.
Caitlin Kent
Kiwi Whanau Teacher
Caitlin Kent
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.
Victoria Booth
Assitant Whanau Leader – Makomako
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.
Rachel Braham
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Rachel Braham
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.
Grant Macpherson
Whanau Leader – Makomako
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.
Iain McMahon
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Iain McMahon
I teach Science and Forensics at AJHS. I worked in the mental health sector for many years before working for the Department of Corrections. My curriculum specialties are Psychology and Biology; I am privately pursuing my personal interest in the neurobiology and philosophy of consciousness plus machine intelligence (A.I.).
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.
Sue Scull
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Sue Scull
I want to pass on my passion for science to the students and inspire them to become curious, scientifically literate members of society. I have a BSc Hons in Metallurgy, a PGCE in Science and a MEd in Special Needs. Taught in UK and NZ.
Alana Sims
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Alana Sims
Food Technology teacher at AHJS since 2016. Bachelor of Science majoring in Human Nutrition and Sport & Exercise Science. Passionate about educating students for the future by incorporating healthy eating, sustainability and innovation within Technology. A focus on helping every student experience success, every day, no matter how big or small.
Nanie Taylor
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Nanie Taylor
Mary-Jane Young
Makomako Whanau Teacher
Mary-Jane Young
I am a happy and enthusiastic individual, new to teaching and passionate about my vocation. I love learning and guiding students, helping them to create their educational identity.
- maryjane.young@ajhs.school.nz
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
Michael Callon
Assistant Whanau Leader – Tui
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
Aimee Fergusson
Tui Whanau Teacher
Aimee Fergusson
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 4 years and loved 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.
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.
Meghan Sutton
Tui Whanau Leader
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.
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.
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.
Kawal Bedi
Tui Whanau Maths Teacher
Kawal Bedi
I am a passionate person with a lovely family including two boys and my husband. I love cooking, reading and meditating in my own time.
Dr Yvonne Carleton
Tui Whanau Maths Teacher
Dr Yvonne Carleton
I joined AJHS in 2023, having proviousely taught Maths at Carmel College. I have a few degrees and a few past careers, which help to make for good stories and teaching opportunities. My doctorate was in conjunction with the NZ Police and was on mentoring and support of new recruits. My background includes industrial chemistry. My passions (apart from teaching) are classic cars, acting and science fiction, especially Dr. Who, Star Trek and Star Wars. I care deeply about teaching and building very good working relationships with my students. My teaching intent is for the students to achieve to the best of their capability. My motto is ‘Ko te atawhai e kore e moumou’. ‘Kindness is never wasted’.
Learning Support / Teacher Aides
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.
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.
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 Osbourne
Technology Support Technician
Andrea Osbourne
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
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.
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
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.
Fiona Larsen
Head of Learning Support/ESOL
Fiona Larsen
Having recently joined the AJHS team I am enjoying the maturity and independence of the students in this school. I have many years of experience working with individual students who require extension and/or learning support. Am currently loving designing programmes for students for whom English is a second language.
Sarah Reid
International Student Coordinator
Sarah Reid
I assist the International Department and organise homestay placements, whilst looking after International student welfare.
I enjoy working in the education sector having spent 3 years previously at another North Shore school. I have a huge passion for helping people which I’m able to do in this role.
I’m a mother of two living in Albany. My boys attended AJHS, with the youngest leaving this year.
We love the outdoors and spending our holidays with family overseas whenever we can.
