Our Staff
"I can honestly say after nearly 40 years in education that we have assembled here at Kaurilands the most talented, hardworking, caring, creative and innovative staff I have ever worked with. This is every member of our 70+ strong staff - what a team, they make me proud everyday." - Jo Augustine, Principal
Alana McKenzie
Associate Principal
Email Alana McKenzieI feel very privileged to be one of the Associate Principals at this fabulous school. I have been teaching for 21 years, most recently at Glen Eden Primary. I love teaching Yr 4-8, sparking curiosity and having fun. I enjoy spending time with whānau, watching rugby and going to the speedway.
Alyce Fulop
Teacher Aide
Email Alyce FulopI absolutely love supporting the children I work with and being a part of the Kaurilands community. I am a Mum of four children who have all attended our lovely school. In my down time I love reading, cooking, heading to the gym and I am quite partial to a bit of shopping!
Amelia Le Cheminant
Rūma Tekau mā iwa (Room 19) Y3 Teacher / Team Leader
Email Amelia Le CheminantI have been teaching at Kaurilands since 2012 and absolutely love being part of this school community. I have taught all age groups and I am really looking forward to working in the Rimu Syndicate with the amazing Year 3 students. I am a mum of 3 and love reading, yoga, delicious food and gardening.
Anita Maxwell
Accounts Assistant
Email Anita Maxwell"I feel privileged to work alongside such an incredible group of colleagues and children. Every day Kaurilands brings new experiences and opportunities. My family has been proud to call Titirangi home for many years, and we cherish our community as well as the wonderful Waitākere Ranges.
Ashley Goodspeed
Part Time Teacher
Email Ashley GoodspeedI am thrilled to be a part of the Kaurilands whānau. I believe in creating a positive environment supporting students and love the adventure that students and teacher embark on while learning together. I enjoy spending time with family and being outdoors, especially the beach or running trails.
Catalina Camargo
Sick Bay Administrator
Email Catalina CamargoI am Catalina from Colombia and have been living in NZ for 15 years. I am so excited to be part of this amazing community and adore working with children. I speak English and Spanish and consider myself a very creative person, one of my favourite hobbies is arts & crafts with my son Emilio.
Clare O'Gorman
Rūma Ono (Room 6) Y6 Teacher
Email Clare O'GormanKia ora, my name is Clare and I am excited to be part of the Year 6 team this year. In our classroom we have a supportive and positive learning environment for all tamariki to thrive in. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being outdoors, reading and motorsport.
Clare Taylor
Teacher Aide
Email Clare TaylorAs a Teacher Aide here at Kaurilands I have the honour of assisting teachers and students. I'm blown away every day by the support and care fostered here by all, to ensure a well rounded learning experience. I love hiking in the bush and swimming at any meeting of sea and sand.
Emma Tamura
Part Time Teacher
Email Emma TamuraIt is wonderful to be part of the warm, welcoming whānau of Kaurilands. This is my fourth year teaching here. Both my boys are past Kaurilands kids and have thrived in the amazing, inclusive environment. In my spare time I enjoy hanging out with family and friends, reading, yoga and walking my dog.
Erin Namajuska
Associate Principal
Email Erin NamajuskaI have had the pleasure of teaching our amazing students for 11 great years. I have a passion for teaching and learning and do my very best to make learning engaging and fun for all. I am excited about working with children across the school this year in my new role as Assistant Principal.
Frances McBeath
Rūma Whā (Room 4) Y6 Teacher
Email Frances McBeathI am thrilled to be teaching in the amazing Kaurilands Year 6 team. I worked in educational publishing for many years and I’m passionate about literacy and lifelong learning. I have a daughter at Kaurilands and adult children. My focus is on supporting all tamariki to aim high and do their best.
Frances O’Hanlon
Rūma Tekau (Room 10) Y4 Teacher
Email Frances O’HanlonKaurilands is a fantastic whānau to be a part of and I feel fortunate to be working with a great team and awesome tamariki. I love working alongside my students to support, encourage and challenge them with their learning. My passions are reading,writing and spending time with my grandchildren.
Georgia Thompson
Rūma Tekau mā rua (Room 12) Y4 Teacher
Email Georgia ThompsonKia ora, I’m Georgia! This year I am excited to be part of the Year 4 team again at our kura. I love teaching all areas and building relationships with tamariki and whānau. I am looking forward to an amazing year and working with a fantastic team!
Glenys Ferguson
Part Time Teacher
Email Glenys Ferguson2024 will be my 5th year as a part time teacher at Kaurilands. I love getting to know all the fabulous tamariki that I have the privilege to teach across the year. I live in Titirangi with my husband, son, and one much loved cat. When I’m not working, I enjoy walking, reading, baking and archery.
Grace McDonald
Library Assistant
Email Grace McDonaldHi I’m Grace, I love books! I have the best job ever! Kaurilands library has a lot to offer all students; a great place to hang out. My association with Kaurilands School began in 2008 as a parent helper, starting on staff in 2015. Outside school, I read and potter in the garden.
Gracie-Eve Derbyshire
Rūma Iwa (Room 9) Y5 Teacher
Email Gracie-Eve DerbyshireKia ora, I feel incredibly privileged and excited to be joining the Year 5 team. I am passionate about creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where tamariki can reach their full potential. My passions include reading, going to the beach and spending time with my whānau and friends.
Grant O'Connor
Part Time Teacher (Bilingual Programme)
Email Grant O'ConnorTēna koutou. Ko Grant tōku ingoa. I feel privileged to be part of this amazing kura (school). Passionate about education, I particularly enjoy connecting with our tamariki and assisting them on their learning journey. A proud family man, I enjoy spending time with my two boys and beautiful wife.
Hayley Jesperson
Y1 Teacher / Team Leader
Email Hayley JespersonAs an experienced teacher, I have been involved with Kaurilands for many years, firstly as a parent of my 4 children and now as a teacher and Year 1 Team Leader. I work with amazing, passionate teachers who ensure the transition to school is a smooth one for both child and family.
Jackie Amor
Business Manager
Email Jackie AmorI feel very happy to be a member of the awesome Kaurilands team. You will see me in the office as well as out and about around the school, so I am lucky to have the best of both worlds.
Jaime Lyon
Rūma Tekau mā waru (Room 18) Y3 Teacher
Email Jaime LyonI am excited to continue my journey in the Year 3 team. I believe in the potential of every child and enjoy helping them develop into more confident and motivated learners. In my spare time I enjoy reading and swimming. I also have four children who keep me entertained!
Jaimee Leigh Cope
Rūma Toru Tekau (Room 30) Y2 Teacher
Email Jaimee Leigh CopeKia ora, I’m Jaimee. I have been teaching at the best school in the world (Kaurilands, of course) since 2016. I'm all about finding out what makes children tick, their unique interests and skills, and using this to tap into and unlock new learning. I look forward to working with you and your child!
Jay Oxley
Rūma Rua Tekau mā whā (Rm 24) Y1 Teacher
Email Jay OxleyI’m so excited to be joining the Kaurilands whanau. I love teaching, and enjoy seeing tamariki challenge themselves and smash goals. I enjoy travelling, music, reading and spending time with my family.
Jean Webb
Teacher Aide
Email Jean WebbI have always found Kaurilands to be a great school and I am very pleased to be part of the support staff team. As a Teacher Aide I am excited to support the students and see their wonderful achievements. I have four children, one of whom is still at school.
Jennifer Koelet
Rūma Rima (Room 5) Y5 Teacher
Email Jennifer KoeletMy name is Jennifer Koelet and I am excited to be teaching in Rūma Rima this year! I love being a part of a classroom community where everyone is safe and valued. I hope to bring fun and laughter to my classroom! I love to be outdoors, especially at the beach!
Jo Augustine
Principal
Email Jo AugustineI have had the privilege of being the Principal of Kaurilands for 14 yrs. We have the most hardworking, caring and innovative staff I have ever worked with. We aim to provide the best learning opportunities for our children. Our relationships with you and your children are our most valued priority.
Jo Senio
Rūma Whitu (Room 7) Y5 Teacher
Email Jo SenioTalofa lava. I'm Jo and I work at Kaurilands. All three of my children have come through this amazing kura and I feel very privileged to be part of this community, both as a parent and a teacher.
Kara Wilkins
Rūma Rua Tekau mā tahi (Room 21) Y1 Teacher
Email Kara WilkinsKia ora! I am so happy to be back at Kaurilands. I love teaching new entrants, they are filled with so much joy and enthusiasm and no two days are the same. I have 2 children and have been so lucky to be able to spend more time with them this year.
Karen Topps
Teacher Aide
Email Karen ToppsKaren is a teacher aide and also responsible for much of the beautifully displayed artwork around our school. In her own time she lovingly and skillfully frames and displays the creative products of our ākonga.
Kim Morgan
Rūma Rua Tekau mā ono (Room 26) Y1 Teacher
Email Kim MorganI have been working at Kaurilands for 23 years and still look forward to coming to work each day! I enjoy teaching our younger tamariki and as we have a very special environment at Kaurilands, I am proud to be a member of this awesome community. A keen reader, I also love walking and travel.
Kim Williams
Rūma Rua (Room 2) Y6 Teacher / Team Leader
Email Kim WilliamsKia ora e te whānau, I have been a part of the fabulous Kaurilands kura for 8 years. I love being a part of our students' school journey and like them I am always keen to learn more! I am passionate about spending time with my whānau, we love to head head outdoors especially to the beach.
Kimberly Newmarch
Rūma Rua Tekau mā rima (Room 25) Y1 Teacher
Email Kimberly NewmarchI have been teaching at Kaurilands since 2009. I really enjoy working in our kura thanks to the incredible teachers and children. I continue to be amazed watching the tamariki engage in their learning every day. In my spare time I enjoy reading, cooking and spending time with my family.
Kirsten Fraser
Rūma Tekau mā whā (Room 14) Y4 Teacher
Email Kirsten FraserKia ora, I am very excited to be teaching in Rūma 14 this year. I have experience teaching in almost every year level. I am looking forward to building strong relationships with students and their whānau. I live locally with my partner, our two daughters and our dog.
Kirsten Pickett
Rūma Toru Tekau mā tahi (Room 31) Y2 Teacher
Email Kirsten PickettI am so happy to be part of the Yr 2 Team at Kaurilands. I have been teaching for 18 years and strive to create a fun and exciting learning environment for the tamariki to grow as learners. My passions are spending time with my family, taking tropical holidays, music, and hanging out with friends.
Kristin Lee
Rūma Rua Tekau mā whitu (Room 27) Y2 Teacher / Team Leader
Email Kristin LeeI'm Kristin and I am so excited to be at Kaurilands. This year I am leading the Y2 team and teaching in Rm 27. I enjoy planning meaningful and engaging experiences and creating a classroom culture promoting a love of learning. I love time with friends and family and playing indoor netball.
Lani Maoate
Part Time Teacher
Email Lani MaoateI am thrilled to be back teaching at Kaurilands. I have two children, one who is in Year 4 at Kaurilands and one in Year 10. I love the curiosity and joy that tamariki bring to the classroom. It is a privilege to be part of such a fantastic school!
Laura Turner
Librarian
Email Laura TurnerScottish Book Wizard (aka School Librarian), advocate of reading for pleasure, graphic novel enthusiast and reader of as many kids' books that I can. When not in the School Library you'll find me at one of our Local Libraries reading.
Join our School Library FB page: fb.me/KaurilandsSchoolLibrary
Lauren Cookson
Rūma Rua Tekau (Room 20) Y1 Teacher
Email Lauren CooksonKia Ora, I'm Lauren and I will be teaching in Rūma 20 this year. My two daughters have thrived at Kaurilands School and I feel privileged to be part of the special community we have here. I am looking forward to all the exciting adventures that come with teaching Year 1 tamariki.
Leanne Gibbons
PE Specialist and Sport Co-ordinator
Email Leanne GibbonsI feel privileged to be part of the Kaurilands community. I've been teaching for 12 years and have a background in sports. I strive for all tamariki to reach their full potential, whilst standing strong in who they are. My passions include beach walks, football, volleyball and time with whānau.
Lee-Anne Edwards-Sutton
Teacher Aide
Email Lee-Anne Edwards-SuttonI get so much joy from being part of a team in a Support Worker role. It is a wonderful opportunity for me to assist amazing children and to be part of something fantastic. To see them smile, chat and achieve things they thought were beyond their reach, makes me feel I have done my job well.
Lillian Bombay
Rūma Tekau mā ono (Room 16) Y3 Teacher
Email Lillian BombayI am part of a wonderful Year 3 team. I love working with all children, watching them grow in learning and as a person. My own passion is for the outdoors and exploring being creative through art, craft and music. I love meeting and learning about the new personalities that will make up Room 16.
Lucy McHardy
Part Time Teacher
Email Lucy McHardyKia ora, I’m Lucy. This is my ninth year teaching and my fifth year at Kaurilands School. My goal as a teacher is to create a positive classroom environment where students feel safe, supported and excited about their learning.
Maxime van Luijken
Rūma Tekau mā toru B (Room 13b) Y3 Teacher
Email Maxime van LuijkenI am excited to be joining Year 3 this year. I believe in creating an inclusive learning environment that allows children to explore, express and extend who they want to be. My passions include spending time outdoors, reading, baking and being surrounded by family and friends.
Melissa Williams
Rūma Rua Tekau mā iwa (Room 29) Y2 Teacher
Email Melissa WilliamsI am so excited to be part of the Year 2 team again this year! I have been teaching at Kaurilands for 7 years and love working with the younger tamariki. I enjoy spending time with my husband and three children, walking my little dog, exploring New Zealand and hanging out with my friends.
Mike Fenner
Rūma Waru (Room 8) Y5 Teacher / Team Leader
Email Mike FennerI am incredibly excited to be teaching in Rūma Waru this year. I strive to build strong relationships with my ākonga and cater learning to their needs and interests while bringing humour and excitement to the classroom. I have a passion for the guitar and all things fantasy!
Nick Van Den Borst
Rūma Tekau mā rima (Room 15) Y4 Teacher / Team Leader
Email Nick Van Den BorstI am so excited to be leading the Yr 4 team at our amazing kura. Having taught for over 13 years starting in Wellington then London and Colombia, I've now settled down in West Auckland with my wife and two kids. I am leading all things digital at school and love being part of the Kaurilands whānau.
Paula Dron
Rūma Rua Tekau mā rua (Room 22) Y1 Teacher
Email Paula DronKia ora, I’m Paula and I am so excited to be in Rūma Rua Tekau mā rua and look forward to celebrating each of our student’s individual progress in all aspects of school life and the curriculum. A mum of three girls myself, I find it inspiring and a privilege to be learning from them every day.
Pia Giacon
Teacher Aide
Email Pia GiaconI’m so excited to be a part of the wonderful team at Kaurilands. I have been working as a Teacher Aide since 2019 and love supporting our tamariki. I have 2 gorgeous children who attend Kaurilands. In my spare time I love cooking, holidays at the beach and spending time with my whānau and friends.
Rachael Van Den Berg
Teacher Aide
Email Rachael Van Den BergI have the pleasure of working with children across multiple year levels within our school. I feel very privileged to be a part of the Kaurilands community and to be able to support our children to achieve their greatest potential along their learning journey.
Rachel Tims
Administration Assistant
Email Rachel TimsI am thrilled to join Kaurilands after a long stint in the Airline industry flying and working in admin. I moved from Europe to Titirangi 5yrs ago and love the relaxed community spirit and beautiful surroundings. A mum of two girls I enjoy yoga, reading, travelling, cooking and the beach.
Rebecca Pirret
Learning Support Co-ordinator
Email Rebecca PirretMy name is Rebecca and this is my first year at Kaurilands. I’ve taught across all year levels and I am excited to be taking on the newly developed role of Learning Support Coordinator this year. I’m looking forward to learning about and being a part of Kaurilands School.
Riley Flynn
Rūma Tahi (Room 1) Y6 Teacher
Email Riley FlynnKia ora, my name is Riley. I previously attended Kaurilands as a student, and I'm so excited to be part of the Kaurilands whānau again! I'm passionate about sports, and I love writing and learning languages.
Robyn Applegate
Rūma Tekau mā toru A (Room 13a) Y3 Teacher
Email Robyn ApplegateI am thrilled to be part of the Yr 3 team again and look forward to many learning adventures with our tamariki. My passion is to create a positive classroom environment where students feel supported and excited about their learning. I love travelling, music, photography and time with my family.
Sandra Fletcher
Caretaker
Email Sandra FletcherSandra takes care of our school, night and day. We have her to thank for the upkeep of our beautiful buildings and grounds. You'll often find Sandra with a wheelbarrow or buried up to her elbows in a garden.
Sarah Muthiah
Part Time Teacher
Email Sarah MuthiahHi I'm Sarah! I believe that recognising each tamariki's strengths and celebrating their successes, creates a supportive space for us all to grow and thrive in. Out of school I enjoy walking my dog, snowboarding and swimming.
Siân Branks
Part Time Teacher
Email Siân BranksAs a kaiako (teacher) at Kaurilands, I value connections with tamariki and whānau and hope to provide a challenging, innovative and dynamic environment helping tamariki take ownership of their learning. I cherish whānau/friends, sun, surf, exercise and spirituality.
Stacey Anyan
Rūma Rua Tekau mā waru (Room 28) Y2 Teacher
Email Stacey AnyanI love sharing in children's natural wonder and curiosity about our world! Being a Playcentre parent inspired me to return to teaching in 2018. I’m also obsessed with reading and writing; my previous job was staff writer at current affairs magazine North & South.
Steve King
Rūma Tekau mā tahi (Room 11) Y4 Teacher
Email Steve KingI’m Steve and this is my sixth year at Kaurilands. It's a privilege to work here and teach Year 4 students. My passions include food, science, music, astronomy, and technology. I proudly lead the mighty Marones, Kaurilands' rock band. Outside school, I play drums in a rock band and love to cook.
Toni Holdaway
Teacher Aide
Email Toni HoldawayI have two kids that have come through Kaurilands and loved it. My passion is to connect with our tamariki that need a little extra support in their learning journey so they can blossom to their full potential. I love having fun, lots of laughs with hugs on call.
Tracey Henderson
Rūma Toru (Room 3) Y5 Teacher
Email Tracey HendersonA talented artist with a great sense of humour, Tracey has been part of our kura for many years. You will find her beautiful artwork in many parts of our school.
Tracy Sutherland
Associate Principal
Email Tracy SutherlandI have been connected to the school for many years as parent, class teacher, SENCO and Senior Leader. I love learning and working with our Kaurilands community and enjoy spending time in our beautiful environment. My passion is reading, going to the gym and spending time with family and friends.
Trudi Biggs
Secretary
Email Trudi BiggsI love working at Kaurilands! Both my boys have come through this fantastic school and I love its welcoming, caring and inclusive environment. It's a privilege to work alongside such an amazing team and be a part of our school whānau. I love spending time with my family and going for long walks.
Vicki Palmer
ESOL Teacher
Email Vicki PalmerKiaora koutou, my role has changed into ESOL Teacher and Release Teacher which are both teaching areas I enjoy. I have worked alongside International and English Learner students for many years. Music education is another one of my passions and areas of expertise that I teach to classes.
Wayne Lasenby
Handyman
Email Wayne LasenbyWayne is our resident handyman who tackles any and every job that needs doing around the school.