Background Information
I grew up in Christchurch and shifted to Dunedin in 1982

1987 – 1998 taught at Otago Girls' High School

1998 – 2002 Deputy Principal at Pleasant Point High School

2002 – 2006 Principal at The Catlins Area School

I prefer to say “I teach people” but my teaching subjects include Geography, Biology, Science, Technology and Outdoor Education.

Professional Statement

I chose to come to Waimate High School because I particularly enjoy the educational opportunities that are available in a rural year 7 to 13 school.

My vision for the school is that of a quality learning centre. My hope is that students are inspired and motivated to reach for personal goals of excellence and to realise their full potential in life. This includes excellence in academic, sporting and cultural activities to ensure they develop physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.

At Waimate I believe we have the best of both worlds; a wonderful lifestyle and setting in which to bring up young people as well as a great school that has excellent facilities, where we have highly motivated, hard working teachers who have the best interests of their students at heart. At Waimate High School , excellent teaching ensures quality learning through innovative programmes in an environment that is stimulating and challenging, respectful, supportive and safe.

The students themselves have a crucial role to play in their own education. They need to take responsibility for their own learning by applying themselves positively, always trying their best and making the very most of opportunities that are available to them.

I think it is important that the home and the school, work together in partnership, communicating openly whenever possible. I hope parents and caregivers will feel welcome in the school. My office door is always open, so people can come and discuss issues. I would much rather hear about small concerns long before they become large problems. In our busy lifestyles these days, an email about a concern is also another avenue for parent-school communication. Email me with a concern or suggestion

We live in a world of change and schools are very different now to when I was at school. Therefore it is essential that our young people are well prepared to deal with change. They will need to be flexible, adaptable and self-reliant problem-solvers. Literacy, numeracy and computer literacy are the basics, but as well, our students need to be cooperative, creative, critical thinkers. Above all they will need commitment to lifelong learning. Education does not finish when we leave school with a particular qualification. Love of learning and the desire to learn throughout life are essential qualities. This will mean they are well prepared for life after school so that our future citizens and community leaders will take up their roles with confidence, courage, independence and self awareness.

I believe Waimate High School has an exciting future ahead and I am enthusiastic about participating in that future for the benefit of our young people.