About Me

I strive for all of my classes to be fun and interactive. If I am not having fun, then I know that my learners are not having fun. As a Business Academy teacher, I am lucky to engage with learners , whose creative thinking can be turned into products and services that may one day benefit multiple communities.

E: aimee.deutschmann@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

HOLA Technology. I believe that all students deserve the best educational opportunities so they can be the best academically, socially, culturally and/ or sporting person possible. MEDLM. Dip Tch. PGD EDLM. Kendo 6th Dan. Iaido 4th Dan &Jodo 3rd Dan.

E: alan.stephenson@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

HOLA Technology. I believe that all students deserve the best educational opportunities so they can be the best academically, socially, culturally and/ or sporting person possible. MEDLM. Dip Tch. PGD EDLM. Kendo 6th Dan. Iaido 4th Dan &Jodo 3rd Dan.

E: alan.stephenson@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: alana.geach@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: amy.kim@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: andrea.osbourne@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Mathematics and Whanau teacher. I see myself as an educator wanting to cultivate a positive attitude toward learning (specifically Maths) in children. Apart from maths, I am also passionate about sports (especially netball) and using the skills learnt on the sports field to teach life lessons in the class.

E: anika.potgieter@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I immigrated to New Zealand from China in 2010. I enjoy working with very supportive staff and lovely children at AJHS. I love working with international students who need extra help and I feel relieved when I see their progress. I'm a mother of two boys. I enjoy spending time with friends and family.

E: anna.xu@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

SENCO- I’m a primary trained teacher of nearly twenty years. I have a passion for helping children to find what drives them and ‘makes them tick’. Empowering students to love learning and have fun is key! I love the Arts, Music, and English. I’m married with two children. I love going out for coffee and walking on the beach with my family.

E: anneke.clissold@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: ashmita.dawad@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: bamboo.preet@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Specialist classroom teacher in Year 8 with a 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.

E: bernie.mcginley@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

In and out of the classroom for 25 years, I also had another career as a family photographer. I’m thrilled to be back in the classroom and enjoy the Middle School years. Married with three young adult daughters. I’m interested in history, philosophy and politics. I enjoy inter-school debating.

E: beth.kubala@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: bevan.armstrong@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

NZ Registered Nurse with over 30 years experience in a variety of Health settings. I have been at AJHS since 2016 and love being in the school environment and working with sudent to fulfill their potential at school.

E: brigid.lamont@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: bronwyn.northgrave@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am the business manager at Albany Junior High School since 2017. I am father of two sons. I have over 15 years of financial controlling, operational management and property management experiences. I have been dealing with muti- government agencies (CYFS, DOC, MOE, MOH etc.).

E: bruce.wang@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: bryce.cattell@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am a Year 8 Homeroom, Physical Education, Social Studies, Food Technology and Dance (Hip Hop) Teacher. I am passionate about engaging children with genuine learning through self-perception i.e. Growth Mindset.

E: candice.brons@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am the teacher in charge of Visual Art at AJHS. I have taught as an Art Specialist across all years from Year 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.

E: carleen.thomas@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Assistant Head of Science. Experienced Science and Mathematics Teacher with training in Special needs development and education. I am a strong education professional skilled in Leadership, Critical Thinking, Research, Tutoring, and Computer Literacy. I have one beautiful girl and believe that it takes a village to raise a child. Strength in Unity.

E: carli.els@ajhs.scshool.nz

About Me

I work with the Admin team as support for the Deputy Principals and managing student Attendance. My colleagues are a great group of individuals who collectively help to provide an environment that enable us to deliver the best support possible for staff and students alike.

E: cathy.abel@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: cristina.fdm@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Deputy Principal. Passionate, positive and professional pathways in education for 27 years. Mother of two teen daughters and married to Mark for 26 years. Leadership through partnerships, relationships and action. Love fitness, beach and family.

E: cushla.shepherd@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: daniel.bushett@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Deputy Principal. Teacher of Science for 22 years in the UK and New Zealand .Prior to teaching I was employed by Newcastle University carrying out various medical research projects. In 2002, my husband, two children moved to New Zealand. I thoroughly enjoy the kiwi lifestyle, travelling to new destinations and spending time with my four grandchildren.

E: dawn.ross@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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 life long learner, I am currently studying research stats and the impact of autonomy and independent thinking on student knowledge, attitude and skill acquisition.

E: debra.wood@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Deputy Principal. Passionate about making learning fun for all. High priority in student voice and getting to know each student and their families. Supporting every student to learn in the way that works for them best. Love being with students and seeing them thrive in and out of the classroom. Community and family is everything to me.

E: demian.shaver@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Teacher of Mathematics, with a passion to cultivate relationships with my students, colleagues and wider community. I value honesty, mutual respect and integrity highly. Married with 2 kids.

E: edwina.nelson@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Teacher, wife, mother of two, and all-round 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.

E: ellen.wallace@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: eva.popper@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Having recently joined the AJHS team I am enjoying the maturity and independence of the students in this school. I have many years' 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.

E: fiona.larsen@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Year 7 homeroom teacher. I am a qualified primary school teacher and started my career as a Year 5 and Year 6 teacher in 2013. I’m passionate about building rapport with students and creating a classroom environment that students enjoy coming to every day.

E: gemma.woods@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am the schools Receptionist and have been here since 2012, I am also responsible for new enrolments. I thoroughly enjoy welcoming our new families and ensuring students feel at ease, plus continued relationships with our current parents. The best part of my job however, is that every day is different, working with staff that are just so good at what they do and the interactions I have with our students makes my day.

E: george.mcclure@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Y7 Homeroom Teacher. Teaching followed several years spent as a sailing instructor in various locations around the world. After a degree in Sport Science, I trained as a PE teacher at the University of Southampton. Outdoor education is my passion and I enjoy watching my students develop both personally and academically.

E: georgi.ridler@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: gillian.watson@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: gina.morkel@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: gina.morkel@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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 postive relationships and life long learners. Married with 4 children. Follow lots of different sports, especially cricket and rugby.

E: grant.macpherson@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Kia ora, ko Helen Haine tōku ingoa. I am an excellent generalist teacher passionate about coaching learners to achieve, find their passions and enjoy the journey. Gifted and Talented Education (GaTE) co-ordinator for AJHS, Lecturer of GradDipTchg(Primary) cohort at Massey University.I’m currently working towards my Masters in Education (Mathematics). BAppSc(FoodTech), GradDipTchg(Primary)

E: helen.haine@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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 specialities are Psychology and Biology; I am privately pursuing my personal interest in the neurobiology and philosophy of consciousness plus machine intelligence (A.I.).

E: iain.mcmahon@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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 foundations to learning successfully.

E: ian.tagg@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: jackie.lawes@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am a Year 8 teacher dedicated to motivating, inspiring and engaging students in meaningful, fun and creative environments. I have a particular interest in inspiring a love of reading and creative writing in kids. I am a proud mum to two girls and love spending time outdoors.

E: jackie.nell@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: jamie.gresham@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Maths and whanau teacher at AJHS. Aim to support students in their learning whilst giving them control over their education - achieved by giving students access to content subject at home, enabling them to work in an environment they’re comfortable with.

E: jamie.skelton@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Yr 7 Homeroom teacher and am also involved in the Year 8 team, Maths and English departments. I have taught at Intermediate level for 9 years and first started at AJHS in 2015. Our family which includes my husband and two girls (6 and 3 years old) relocated to Christchurch for 3 years and we have now returned where I am excited to be back at AJHS. I see my main purpose as a teacher is to meet the needs of each individual in the class in a way that helps them find personal success, however that looks for them.

E: jess.prior@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I have taught since 2014 within Year 7 Homeroom, Health, Social Studies, and have the privilege of being the Assistant Whanau Leader of the best whanau - Ruru! Passionate about enabling our akonga to reach their potential, in whatever area that may be, as well as mentoring and nurturing them through the rollercoaster of life.

E: jessica.molloy@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: joanna.ramsay@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: joanna.molloy@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: jo.monkton@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: jooyeon.lee@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Property Maintenance Assistant. I have behind me a forty year banking career starting at the bottom as a bills 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.

E: jose.pereira@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Internatinal Students Director, I immigrated to NZ with my family in 2001 from Korea. It was not easy to adapt a different culture and life style 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 interantional students.

E: juyoung.kim@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Japanese Language Advisor and Learning Support Assistant. Mother of two boys. Teacher aide since 2012 in QLD and started AJHS in 2016. Love teaching young students literacy and numeracy. Passionate about music and books. Associate Degree of Arts majoring in English. Cert III in Travel & Tourism and in Education Support.

E: kaori.senior@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: kate.mckinney@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am the Office Manager and work with a team of wonderful people at AJHS. I have been here for over 4 years and enjoy the ever changing systems and administration side of my job. We are very proud of the way we all support each other, the teachers and the students.

E: kate.page@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

It’s a privilege teaching, engaging and stretching our akonga. I am HOLA of Social Studies and the Business Academy. In education since 2000, I have a marketing background. Interests include running a charity for underprivileged in Rwanda, travel, and predator free NZ. I'm married to Ian and have four sons.

E: kaye.mckean@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: kerry.oliver@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: kirsten.saunders@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am a learning support worker and have worked at AJHS for 3 years. I am a Hairdresser by trade but I studied at Massey University as an Education support worker five years ago. My job ensures all students at AJHS have equal opportunities and reach their academic potential.

E: kirsty.mower@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Head of Lanaguages, TIC of Japanese. 24 years' 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 is important to me.

E: kristin.noom@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I believe in giving students opportunities to flourish and grow both academically and socially. Students are empowered to take more responsibility for their learning journey so that they become self-reliant, resourceful, resilient life-long learners. Having studied and taught in three different cultures has enabled me to be empathetic towards how we can navigate differences.

E: leanna.elmes@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am a passionate, enthusiastic teacher

E: lisa.lumsden@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Maths teacher at AJHS since 2016. Why is mathematics so important? Mathematics engages the rigour of logical as well as the creative within each of us. I love teaching maths because it is so satisfying solving problems and it is a gateway subject that opens many career doors for students.

E: liz.fox@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Experienced teacher of secondary school English and a whanau teacher. I have wide and varied interests outside school in the arts and theatre.

E: loena.mccormack@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am a high energy, passionate and enthusiastic teacher who is dedicated to creating a positive learning environment. My strengths include building an inclusive classroom culture whilst giving all learners the opportunity to take risks, develop key competencies and critically think in a collaborative manner. Love PE, surfing, netball and everything outdoors.

E: lucy.laurenson@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: mandy.farrington@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: maree.nolan@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: margaret.penberthy@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

"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 15 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. I therefore am a firm believer that if we are dedicated to our students learning that we too need to continue to upskill ourselves through various learning platforms. It is therefore my desire to pursue my post-grad and then inevitably to complete my masters.

E: maria.barnard@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Maths teacher - I love the basics - teach simply and clearly. Pupils always say they love to be in my class cause I make it simple.

E: mark.newman@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Head of Learning Area for Science. 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.

E: martene.matthews@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: maxine.johnson@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: meghan.sutton@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: mernada.davids@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: michael.callon@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: michelle.leeuwenburgh@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am a part time Counsellor at AJHS. I am trained in person-centred 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.

E: miriam.taylor@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Mathematics and Whanau teacher. Originally from South Africa and lived in New Zealand since 2011. I relate well to all students and have high expectations in the classroom. I am very passionate about Mathematics.

E: nanie.taylor@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: natalie.goslin@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Year 7 homeroom and Maths teacher. I started my education career teaching upper primary levels. After 5 years and various roles and responsibilities later it was time for a change. I have been a proud member of AJHS since 2018. I’m passionate about creating a learning environment for students where everyone feels comfortable to be the best they can be, feel accomplished and enjoy a fun and engaging learning process.

E: natalie.wilcock@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Year 8 Homeroom and Year 9 Social Studies Teacher who is passionate about helping students develop the knowledge and skills to fully critique, participate and contribute both in Aotearoa and the wider global context. I started my teaching career at AJHS in 2019 and have grown up on Aucklands North Shore.

E: natasha.cox@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: nicola.kaiwai@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: nikki.best@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: nikki.jones@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Am a member of the learning support team. My passion is to help students achieve and enjoy school. Working one on one or in small groups helps the student understand and they become more confident in their abilities. Have worked at AJHS for over 10 years.

E: pam.thomson@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

My name is Paul Halton I discovered my passion for teaching after spending 2 1/2 years teaching English in Vietnam. I started at AJHS in 2018 as a homeroom teacher, before moving to the ESOL department in 2019. I love old cars, rock music, and a good book.

E: paul.halton@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

My name is Paul Halton I discovered my passion for teaching after spending 2 1/2 years teaching English in Vietnam. I started at AJHS in 2018 as a homeroom teacher, before moving to the ESOL department in 2019. I love old cars, rock music, and a good book.

E: paul.halton@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: paula.cole@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Year 7 Homeroom teacher and teach maths in Year 7. This is my first year at AJHS but I have 20 years' experience in various schools. I am enthusiastic about ILE's and collaborative teaching as this leads to collaborative learning.

E: peter.harpur@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: poppy.kirkflexton@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: rachel.houkamau@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Part of the Grounds / Property Team. Has been with AJHS since Feb 2010. Currently on extended leave

E: ray.jarman@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Fun in the classroom, high expectations and energy are three things I bring to the classroom environment. I follow all sports and coach futsal. 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.

E: rod.caudwell@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: ruth.russell@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Enthusiastic teacher of Human Bio & Science. Involved in education throughout my careers: secondary school teacher, outdoor educator, paramedic & paramedic lecturer. Married with two girls, both whom have been through AJHS. Passionate about life – recreation in the outdoors, rock-climbing, sea-kayaking & heavily involved in surf life-saving.

E: sally.rowe@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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 ones self no matter if winning or losing.

E: sam.smith@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: samantha.darnley@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

A qualified, experienced school librarian. An avid reader of Children + Young Adult literature, I love to share my passion with our students. I have been at AJHS since its opening in 2005 and instrumental in the ongoing development of its Library.

E: sandrea.ware@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

As the Head of Y7 Integrated Studies, I have the pleasure of being an integral part of the team with whom our youngest learners start their AJHS pathway. I am passionate about educating and connecting with our young people and believe they keep me young too! I am a fond traveller, new beekeeper, and an animal enthusiast.

E: sarah.guise@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Have taught Homeroom and Physical Education. Passion is seeing youth in the outdoors. TIC of Outdoor Education. Have been at AJHS since 2010 and am greatful for the variety of students and teachers I spend time with. Enjoy being involved in the pastoral care and guidance of our students.

E: sarah.manning@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am a member of the learning support team and new to the school, although my son has attended for 3 years. I love helping students with understanding the work set and seeing the joy on their faces when they complete the work. I immigrated from England in 2019, with my husband joining the NZDF. We love living here. Being a teacher aide allowes me to give back to the school that has helped and supported my son so much in the last 3 years.

E: sarah.weston@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am working part time here in the Resource room. I love to help people and also love the feeling of getting jobs done. I love how the team here are supportive and caring and honest with one another.

E: shelby.ngamotu@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: shelley.brockelsby@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: shelley.penn@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

With nearly 30 years 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.

E: shelley.wilson@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Part of the Grounds/ Property team

E: siukau.tai@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Principal. Passionate about all things education. Goal is to empower all learners to love learning in their own way and using the best pathway for them—both students and teachers. PhD., M.Ed (First Class Hons), BA (First Class Hons). Father of 4, husband of 1. Formerly 7th Dan Karate.

E: stephen.kj@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Senior Guidance Counsellor: My passion is to assist young people of all ages and ethnicities to be able to live in 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.

E: steve.peach@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Have taught at AJHS for 15 years. As teacher in charge of Drama, I enjoy seeing students explore their creativity and develop their abilities. I am married with two sons.

E: stewart.allan@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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.

E: susan.scull@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I enjoy sharing my love for language and literature with my students. I have a Masters 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.

E: suhanna.karma@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I’m a qualified counsellor (MNZCCA) and have been part-time working with AJHS since 2009. I used to be a lecturer at University in Korea for 11 years with a Ph. D degree of Environmental Psychology and I am now passionate on oversea/immigrant students’ acculturation and mental well-being at school. I have been supporting students and family, especially Asians who are struggling with mental health issues or cultural differences.

E: sunmi.lee@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E:

About Me

I have been part of the Library team since 2015. Married with two boys who both attended this school. I have always had a passion for books and reading and I love helping reluctant readers to find just the right book.

E: susan.williams@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

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, art and help local community through various of church services.

E: susanna.guo@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

on Maternity leave

E: tanya.mekkleholt@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: tania.betterton@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Year 8 homeroom teacher, I bring a wealth of industry knowledge in which I apply to my teaching. Children are my passion. The importance of creating a safe teaching environment, that enables a life long learning culture, Making learning fun. Being supportive and applying what I love. Technology, the outdoors, Writing, Imagination. Not just reaching for the stars but grabbing them.

E: tracey.pickford@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I have just started at AJHS this year as a reprographic technician. I handle the bulk of the schools printing & copying needs, and take care of the staffroom also. My background is engraving & design which I completed my qualification in 2000. Married with two children who both attend AJHS, I feel lucky to be apart of such an amazing team.

E: vickie.mason@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

Science teacher / Assistant Whanau Leader. Originally from Manchester, 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.

E: victoria.booth@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

I am a qualified teacher in both Korea and New Zealand. I have been teaching since 2003 and have started working at AJHS since 2018. My passionate areas of teaching are Mathematics and Year 7 Homeroom. I am a true believer of a growth mindset and I love teaching!

E: wendy.you@ajhs.school.nz

About Me

E: willa.wu@ajhs.school.nz