Our Staff
Leadership Team
Ava Szabo
Principal
I have been at Wā Ora since 2011, initially as Deputy Principal High School and stepped up to the role of Principal in 2017. I hold a Bachelor of Science and a Postgraduate Diploma of Teaching and have attended the Adolescent Orientation in Cleveland, Ohio. What I love about Wā Ora is the passion students bring to their learning – they are honest and open minded. I live in the Hutt Valley with my husband and four sons.
Lucy Bayliss
Preschool Centre Manager
Kia ora, my name is Lucy and I’m delighted to be joining the Wā Ora community this year (2025). I hold a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a Bachelor of Education (Teaching) Early Childhood. I have been part of the early childhood education sector for the past 20 years, fulfilling various teaching and leadership roles that span community-based, privately owned centres, kindergartens, large national organisations and homebased care. I am excited to continue my leadership journey at Wā Ora, and look forward to drawing on the expertise of current staff to inform my Montessori learning.
I’m mum to two beautiful children, one teen and one almost-teen, and in my time outside of work I am dedicated to my family life, which I try to link to my love of cuisine in any way possible. I also enjoy reading (a lot) and spending time with our ‘third child’; 2year old collie/retriever Kip.
Anna McLean
Deputy Principal - Primary
I joined Wā Ora in 2018 having spent the previous 10 years teaching in a 6-12 classroom at Tawa School. I have both AMI 3-6 and 6-12 Montessori training and a Bachelor of Education Degree (Teaching) Primary from Massey University. Prior to teaching, I worked in the corporate world, which gave me a range of skills and experiences that I have been able to draw on in my roles since. I like sharing my passion for Montessori and I never tire of talking to people about it. I live in Tawa with my husband and two older children and in my spare time I like reading and I am getting used to being a gardener.
Tanya Laybourn
Deputy Principal - High School
I returned to Wā Ora to take the role of DP at the High School in 2024 after teaching in the beautiful Bay of Plenty for 6 years at Pāpāmoa College. I am passionate about EOTC (Education Outside the Classroom) and believe the most profound learning comes from going beyond the four walls of the classroom and doing stuff that is real. My teaching subject is English and I feel strongly that we need to set up our students to be great communicators in all aspects of their lives.
I have two children that are beginning to make their way in the real world. My daughter is studying Sociology and Pacific Studies, and my son is planning to study Performing Arts. I fill my spare time with adventures including bike packing, tramping, camping, skiing and taking my dog to the beach.
I value the way Montessori Education addresses the needs of the whole child and endeavours to engage the learner with meaningful contexts and choices.
Hayley Luan (currently on Maternity Leave)
Executive Officer
Kia ora. My name is Hayley and I joined Wā Ora in 2018 as the Executive Officer. Being part of the administration and support team, I provide budgetary and financial information and reports to all stakeholders and work as the board secretary as well. I have a background in finance and accounting and have worked in the banking and a charitable sector before joining Wā Ora. In my spare time I enjoy watching movies, studying Japanese, reading books and travelling with my family and friends.
Jo Dyer
Office Manager and Personal Assistant to Principal
I began my journey at Wā Ora in 2009 and have enjoyed the diversity of this position as it has developed over the years from PA to the Principal to now include Office Manager responsibilities. There are certainly many facets of this role to keep me busy including working alongside the Principal, the Senior Leadership Team and staff to ensure the smooth running of the school. I have two sons who attend Wā Ora and in my down time I enjoy being outdoors, walking and spending time with family and friends.
High School
Tanya Laybourn
Deputy Principal - High School; Sports Coordinator - Tāwari
I returned to Wā Ora to take the role of DP at the High School in 2024 after teaching in the beautiful Bay of Plenty for 6 years at Pāpāmoa College. I am passionate about EOTC (Education Outside the Classroom) and believe the most profound learning comes from going beyond the four walls of the classroom and doing stuff that is real. My teaching subject is English and I feel strongly that we need to set up our students to be great communicators in all aspects of their lives.
I have two children that are beginning to make their way in the real world. My daughter is studying Sociology and Pacific Studies, and my son is planning to study Performing Arts. I fill my spare time with adventures including bike packing, tramping, camping, skiing and taking my dog to the beach.
I value the way Montessori Education addresses the needs of the whole child and endeavours to engage the learner with meaningful contexts and choices.
Sarah Jane Lambie
Kawakawa Teacher
I have been working at Wā Ora in various part-time teaching and events management roles since 2011. In 2022 I was appointed full-time teacher in Kawakawa class. I have a Bachelors of Arts Degree, a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and a Masters Degree of Library and Information Science. I enjoy the special sense of commitment, community and belonging at Wā Ora, both as a teacher and as a parent of the school – my children graduated in 2021. My interests include being their mother, gardening, reading and netball. For relaxation I love bush walking, listening to music and practising yoga.
Hilary Asquith
Kawakawa Head Teacher – High School
My name is Hilary and I was appointed as the lead teacher of Kawakawa in early 2020. I have been a secondary teacher since 2005 and have developed an interest in literacy and curriculum development. I have taught in a range of schools in New Zealand as well as abroad. I now live in the Hutt Valley with my husband, our two boys and our labrador Nellie. Areas of interest are; walking in the regional park close to our home, our building projects, house plants, good books, films, hanging with friends and trying my best to be a good parent.
Kristen Gibb
Kawakawa Teacher - High School
I started secondary teaching in 2014 after a career as a Chef and haven’t looked back. Before that I spent time in Taiwan, teaching English to 4-year-olds. I hold a Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications from the New Zealand Broadcasting School and a Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching from the University of Auckland.
I’m very excited to be part of the Kawakawa team, teaching Humanities, Occupations and Product & Exchange. And for the first time, Wā Ora will be offering Hospitality to the Tāwari students which is a wonderful opportunity to fully utilise the incredible commercial kitchen.
When I’m not teaching I love walking in nature, road trips, camping, beach swims, eating spicy noodles and op-shopping. I live in Wellington with my partner and young daughter
Elizabeth Naudé
Kawakawa Teacher - High School
My name is Elizabeth, a new Kawakawa teacher from South Africa, now living in Lower Hutt. With a Bachelor’s degree in Education and five years of teaching experience, I’m passionate about shaping young minds. I love the outdoors, animals, and consider myself a “jack of all trades.” I’m excited to make a positive impact on my students’ lives in this beautiful country!
Rose Langridge
Humanities and English Teacher - High School
I have taught at Wā Ora since 2012 and have a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and a graduate Diploma of Teaching. In 2014 I had the great privilege of attending the Montessori adolescent training in Ohio, USA. I enjoy the community feel throughout Wā Ora and I believe that studying the history of humanity helps to develop strong citizenship – I enjoy traveling through time with the high school students! Outside of school you will find me dabbling in cooking various cuisines or at a gig most likely of the indie rock persuasion.
Mandeep Kaur
Mathematics Teacher - High School
Bringing a wealth of scientific knowledge to the classroom, I, Mandeep Kaur, hold a BSc with majors in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, BEd with Science & Maths. MSc in Physics and then Level 8 Post-Graduate Diploma in Science from Victoria University of Wellington. This deep academic background allows me to bridge the gap between secondary school fundamentals and high-level critical thinking. I hold extensive international teaching experience. My career has spanned from secondary school Science and Mathematics lecturer in Punjab to serving as Physics Professor in University College there teaching bachelor’s and master’s degree students. I believe that understanding the “why” behind the numbers is the key to student engagement. I specialize breaking down complex mathematical theories into relatable, real-world applications to help every student reach their full potential. I am passionate about fostering a love for STEM among students.
I live with my husband and our son since we moved to Lower Hutt in 2021. In my own time I like to spend time with my family. I love visiting and working for community services done in Gurdwara Sahib Wellington.
Zena Kavas
Biology Teacher; Careers Adviser - High School
Hello. I started teaching at Wā Ora in 2018 and work in the high school teaching Biology to our college students and Occupations to our adolescent programme. Previously I worked at Taita College for 14 years. I love sharing the wonders of the natural world with ākonga and seeing them relate the theory we are learning to real life situations. My personal interests include practicing and teaching yoga, travelling and exploring new places and ideas, gardening, reading and tramping/trekking in NZ.
Stuart Mason
Chemistry Teacher - High School
I have taught chemistry, mathematics, occupations and microeconomy in the high school since the start of 2013. Prior to this I taught in other schools in New Zealand and the UK, including a year at Athena Montessori College. Before teaching, I studied chemistry at Victoria University of Wellington. I love working with the 12-18 age group because it is a fascinating part of life’s journey and it is a joy to see just how much can be achieved by the extraordinary adolescent mind when it is given the opportunities of independent thought and collaborative work offered in a Montessori environment.
Neeraja Vijayarao
Physics and Occupations Teacher - High School
Kia ora, my name is Neeraja and I am delighted to be joining the Wā Ora community in 2026.
I hold a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry and a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. With over 16 years of teaching experience across India, the United States, and Aotearoa New Zealand, I am passionate about making science meaningful, engaging, and connected to real life. Most recently, I taught in Wellington, and I am excited to now begin my journey at Wā Ora and deepen my understanding of the Montessori approach.
Earlier in my career, I also facilitated positive thinking classes, supporting students in building confidence alongside academic growth. Outside of school, I enjoy reading and cooking.
I am a proud mother to my daughter, an architect working as a construction superintendent in the United States. I look forward to contributing to and learning from this vibrant Wā Ora community.
Primary School
Robyn Windley
Rātā Head Teacher – Primary
Venice Kho
Rātā Teacher Assistant – Primary
I began at Wā Ora in 2024 as a teacher aide and I am now the assistant teacher for akomanga Rātā. I have a BA majoring in Educational Psychology and Philosophy and have previously worked as an ECE relief teacher. Prior to this, I studied design for a year and have always loved art and creating things.
I enjoy my time at Wā Ora, and have learned so much about the Montessori philosophy. Montessori aligns with my own goals to provide an environment that encourages children’s independence and intrinsic curiosity for life and learning.
In my own time I love rock climbing, reading, drinking matcha, knitting, and hanging out with my cat.
Tania Gaffney
Pūriri Head Teacher - Primary
I have worked at Wā Ora since the beginning of 2010 having spent the previous 8 years working in a 6-9 primary Montessori class in Wellington and teaching Montessori preschool for 4 years prior to that. I gained my Primary Teaching Degree at the University of Otago and did my AMS Montessori diploma in New York. I really enjoy the community feel of Wā Ora and the way we can see the students develop from preschoolers to young adults as they move through the school. During my down time I like to read, and I have begun to develop a bit of an interest in gardening over the last couple of years.
Carol Palmer
Pūriri Head Teacher – Primary (Currently on Refreshment Leave for 2026)
Hello! I discovered the Wā Ora whānau in 2012 when my two children enrolled in the Preschool, and I loved it so much that I joined as a teacher in 2013. As well as UK and New Zealand teacher certifications I have an AMI Montessori Diploma at 6-12 level, AMI Orientation to Adolescence, and Montessori Model UN training. I am also a Gifted Education consultant and have extensive experience working with neurodiverse learners. I truly love all areas of the Montessori curriculum but have a particular passion for Handwork which I believe can extend our connection and learning in every subject – come and chat to me about this anytime!
Kathy Illsley
Pūriri Teacher Assistant – Primary
Hello! I joined Wā Ora in October 2019 as assistant to Robin in Pūriri class. I value children and enjoy the challenges they give us. I look forward to watching them grow and learn each day. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy being involved in my children’s activities, visiting libraries and local attractions with my family. I love reading a good book, local rides on my bike, growing our own veges and playing the piano.
Helen Stipkovits
Kauri Head Teacher - Primary
Kia ora, I am Helen Stipkovits, kaiārahi in akomanga Kauri. I began my Montessori journey as a parent with my children attending Montessori education in Wellington City. I then took up an opportunity to become an assistant at my son’s Montessori primary school, and travelled to Connecticut, USA to complete an AMI 6-12 Assistants course with Gerry Leonard. I completed my practical observation time (a course requirement) at Wā Ora and after seeing the authenticity in a solely Montessori school and the continuation from preschool to high school, my children were enrolled! I followed not too far after, and worked as an assistant in Kauri for a number of years while completing my Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Primary) with University of Canterbury. I left Wā Ora at the end of 2021 to focus on further studies, starting both my AMI 6-12 Diploma with Rebecca Dallam, and a Masters in Education endorsed in Inclusive and Special Education with UC, but I am back now in this teacher role, excited about putting all that I have learnt, and continue to learn, into practice.
Kathryn Clement
Kauri Teacher Assistant - Primary
Kia ora, I am Kathryn, the assistant to Helen in Kauri class.
I have been working with children as a nanny and in schools for over 20 years. It is very enjoyable and rewarding and I am pleased to be joining Wā Ora and learning more of the Montessori approach.
I have a Diploma in Fine Arts and enjoy art and crafts, photography, time with family and friends, gardening and a good book.
Belinda Rodrigues
Tawhai Head Teacher - Primary
Kia ora, I am Belinda. William (my husband) and I have four sons and two beautiful grandchildren, a boy and a girl. I have rejoined Wā Ora and teach in Tawhai class, after teaching in Melbourne for the last eight years. I taught at Wā Ora for approximately 11 years before I moved to Melbourne, and I am happy to be back and feel very much at home at Wā Ora. I graduated as a Primary teacher from the University of Canterbury, Christchurch and gained my Montessori 6-12 diploma through AMS, New York. During my free time I enjoy reading and anything that stimulates my creativity.
Willow Knight
Tawhai Assistant Teacher - Primary
Nadine Smyth
Tōtara Teacher - Primary
Kia ora, ko Nadine tōku ingoa. I am a lifelong learner; completing a BA in English Literature in 1994, returning to Victoria University to complete a Master of Teaching and Learning (Primary) in 2020. I appreciate dance and music, am a lover of all kitchen gadgets and enjoy travelling and meeting people from different nations and cultures. I am a proud mother of two Montessorians, wife of Jeremy and sister to 7. Overcoming serial book collecting is a long term ambition. My greatest achievement in recent memory is singing and playing the guitar at the same time. I look forward to continuing the Montessori journey with AMI training and spending my days with the wonderful Wa Ora Montessori hapori.
“Ke te Kotahi te kakaho ka whati, ki te kapuia, e kore e whati” – When we stand alone we are vulnerable but together we are unbreakable.
Lauren Beckingsale
Tōtara Teacher - Primary
Benjamin Johnson
Outdoors Kaiārahi
Preschool
Amy Johnson
Kōwhai Head Teacher – Preschool
I began at Wā Ora in 2015 after previously working in Montessori centres in Australia. I hold a Bachelor of Arts (Linguistics), an AMI 3 – 6 Diploma and a Masters of Education. I love connecting children with the tools in their environment to discover for themselves their own passion for learning and I feel privileged to see them reveal their personality through their interests and actions. Wā Ora provides a lovely environment for this ‘work’ to happen. In my free time, I enjoy camping and hiking with my family and my two boys keep me busy at the beach, the skatepark and bike tracks but relaxing with a good book in a sunny spot can’t be beat!
Ingrid Peke
Kōwhai Teacher – Preschool
Kia ora, my name is Ingrid Peke. I am a kaiako in the Kōwhai class. I have been in the early childhood sector for over 20 years and hold a Diploma of Teaching, early childhood education with full teacher’s registration. I have taught both here in New Zealand and in Australia. I am new to the Montessori philosophy, having only learnt about it in my training, but I am looking forward to embarking on this journey with such a supportive and knowledgeable teaching team, with the community of learners from Wā ora. I have 2 sons, both in their 20’s. I have 1 granddaughter and 1 very supportive husband. In my spare time I like to spend time with family, garden and explore our country.
Krista Kerr
Pōhutukawa Head Teacher - Preschool
I have been part of Wā Ora since starting as a parent in 2005, attending playgroup here with my son. Discovering Montessori philosophy inspired me and I returned to university, obtaining my ECE diploma. I enjoyed teaching in our preschool before moving with my family to London to do the AMI 3-6 Diploma and post diploma, returning in 2012 to take up my current position. My two sons are in our high school and I have valued learning about the different sectors as they have moved up the school. I especially enjoy the three-year cycle in Montessori education which allows us to build a strong relationship with tamariki and their whānau. In July 2019 I was elected onto the MANZ council, where I have enjoyed experiencing Montessori pedagogy and philosophy from a different perspective.
Krissa Escote
Pōhutukawa Teacher - Preschool
Kia ora, I’m Krissa. I have been teaching in early childhood education since 2016 and hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from the Philippines. My family and I moved to New Zealand in 2025, and I’m grateful to continue my teaching journey here. I’m passionate about music and love incorporating singing, dancing, and playing the guitar into my teaching. In my spare time, I enjoy singing karaoke, reading books, watching movies, and going on bush walks with my family.
Kala Reyes
Rewarewa Head Teacher – Preschool
Kia ora, my name is Kala and I’m delighted to be part of Rewarewa class. I discovered Montessori through my children and I love how it helped them become independent and well-rounded individuals. After relieving in various ECE and Montessori centres, I took the AMI 3–6 Assistants Course in 2017. My curiosity about Montessori kept growing and in January 2020 I graduated the AMI 3–6 teacher training. It was a life-changing experience and one of the best decisions I’ve made! I love connecting children to a prepared environment and seeing them discover what they are capable of. In my free time I enjoy gardening and going on walks.
Becky Domonkos
Rewarewa Teacher – Preschool
Kia ora, ko Becky tāku ingoa, ko Nga puhi rāua ko Tūwharetoa tāku iwi. Ko Ngati Hine tākou hāpu. I am a kaiarāhi in Rewarewa akomanga and have a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) and an AMI Montessori diploma. I am a fully registered and experienced teacher with over 30 years in teaching in both Aotearoa and Australia. I am passionate about setting our tamariki up for a successful learning journey. Ehara tāku toa i te toa takitahi engari he toa takimano – My strength is not that of an individual but that of the collective. My second passion is fitness and health and I hold an advanced personal training diploma. I enjoy the outdoors and being in nature and am always keen for a challenge. It is my pleasure to be a part of the Wā Ora Montessori school.
Tara Israelson
Nīkau Head Teacher - Preschool
I started my Montessori career in America as an assistant in a classroom in Boston and I was so excited by Montessori that I went on to gain my AMI diploma and Masters of Education in Portland, Oregon. The opportunity to live and work in a new country and learn about a new culture inspired me to join the Wā Ora community in 2008 as the Head Teacher in Nikau. Outside of the classroom I enjoy cooking, fishing, and exploring the New Zealand bush with my son.
Imee Wong
Nīkau Teacher - Preschool
Hi. I am Imee. I started teaching at Wā Ora Montessori School in 2010. I am an Early Childhood Teacher working in Nīkau class and enjoy working with the other great passionate teachers at Wā Ora. I enjoy working with children and watching them grow into independent and confident learners. I have two teenagers, Marcus and Emily. In my spare time, I love to spend time with my family, reading and baking. I also love listening to classical music and watching movies.
Gillian Johnson
Pōhutukawa, Rewarewa and Outdoors Teacher - Preschool
Hi my name is Gillian Johnson and I am married with two children who both now live in Australia. Our family came to New Zealand in 1997 from South Africa. I studied teacher training in Dunedin and hold a Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood. I worked in daycare and kindergarten settings before moving to work in Montessori environments and have now been at Wā Ora for over 11 years. I have learned a great deal, having attended many workshops and conferences as well in that time. In teaching I enjoy that every day is different and I feel great passion for working with the children and helping them to expand their knowledge. It is a great privilege to assist them through their educational journey and to see the joy and excitement they feel at what they achieve.
Wenlu Qin
Outdoors Teacher - Preschool
Kia ora, and 你好(nĭ hăo)! I am Wenlu. I was a secondary teacher trained in China with a BA in English Language and Literature and an MA in Linguistics. I am also holding an MSc in Development Studies from UCL. I worked in public service for many years before returning to my true calling in teaching with a play-based English language learning workshop for preschoolers in China, and this ultimately led me to New Zealand for my studies in early childhood education. After obtaining my Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education), I have had the privilege of working with young children for the past four years. In my role as a teacher, I see myself as a listener, an observer, a documentation recorder, a resource of language and ideas, a facilitator of learning, and a co-constructor of knowledge and meaning. During my free time, I indulge in my love for reading, sketching, hiking, photography, and classical music. I live in Lower Hutt with my wife and our daughter.
Suzanne Eaddy
Playgroup Facilitator
My name is Suzanne Eaddy, Playgroup Supervisor. My tribal affiliations are Te Ati Awa, Ngai Tahu plus English genealogy. My previous career was primary health nursing. My nursing practice had an educational basis as I supported students on clinical placement and my last OPD paper considered the variations between traditional learning for Aboriginal children versus the Western state education style, with regard to health literacy. My hobbies include gardening, cooking and preserving. I have a long association with Wā Ora, as my grandsons Brian and James, now both in High School, attended playgroup as did my granddaughter Michaela. Brian’s first visit to playgroup began our family’s involvement with Wā Ora.
Jacqui Smith
Preschool Kitchen
Specialist Subjects
Craig Bluett
Art Teacher - Primary and High School
Kia ora, I gained my Bachelor of Fine Arts from Otago School of Fine Arts with a Major in Art History from Ilam, Canterbury University.
I have taught visual art at Wā Ora since term 2 last year. I love teaching a range of age groups and I have constantly been delighted by the positivity and creativity of ākonga in this wonderful Montessori environment. I have noticed how staff and parents have contributed hugely to this wonderful learning environment. As an
experienced teacher I have taught in a variety of schools as well as in the Territory system as a course coordinator, lecturer, and tutor. I ran my own art education business for 12 years.
As an exhibiting painter and printmaker in Aotearoa and internationally, I am passionate about all the arts; I also love performing in plays and singing when I can. I have also painted a considerable number of murals for commission. Engaging in my own practice as an artist helps me to inspire students.
A picture is worth a thousand words!
Nga Mihi nui Na
Lottie Butcher
Drama Teacher – Primary and High School
Kia Ora! I’m the drama teacher and teach at both the primary and secondary schools. I am originally from the UK and started teaching in London in 2007. I have a bachelor’s degree in Theatre and a postgraduate certificate in Education from The Central School of Speech and Drama.
Since then, I have taught in both India and Uganda, before settling in New Zealand, where I ran my own drama school in Lower Hutt. I live locally, with my husband, 3 children and 2 dogs. I still enjoy regularly performing, mainly in theatre and I host my own weekly radio show which celebrates the local arts scene. I also love walking and drinking cups of tea (not at the same time)!
Michael Stebbings
Music Teacher – Primary and High School
I started teaching at Wā Ora in 2016 and have been working as an intinerant music and singing teacher for seven years. I have a Masters degree in Music and a Postgraduate Certificate of Education, both from the UK. I moved to New Zealand four years ago, having wanted to come here all my life and am loving living and working in this wonderful country. Wā Ora is an exciting and dynamic place to work, with energetic and enthusiastic students and, having not worked in a Montessori school before, I’m finding the exposure to the philosophy fascinating. Aside from teaching, I’m passionate about singing and musical theatre and regularly perform in and direct music in shows in Wellington.
Dannielle King
Te Reo Māori Teacher - Primary
Kia ora. I have worked at Wā Ora since 2015, starting in the Preschool (mostly to increase my understanding of Montessori philosophy, as my daughter had just started) and also coordinating the playgroup for 4 years. It is amazing to see what a toddler can accomplish when given the chance, and I loved sharing my experiences at Wā Ora with families considering a Montessori education for their little one. Now you can find me working in the main office as the office administrator. In my spare time I enjoy reading, baking or cake decorating.
I have been learning Te Reo Māori for six years, and hold a level 6 Diploma so please feel free to kōrero Māori mai!
Lisa Chin
Mandarin Teacher - Primary and High School
I have worked at Wā Ora since 2011, teaching Mandarin to children from primary through to high school and NCEA. I have a double degree in Languages and Mathematics for Primary and Secondary. I feel that Wā Ora is culturally inclusive and willing to celebrate different cultures. I love teaching at Wā Ora, as it gives me a chance to experience and see the growth in students’ learning from primary up to secondary. In my spare time I enjoy singing, dancing, painting, and cooking a variety of food for my family.
Admin and Support
Jo Dyer
Office Manager and Personal Assistant to Principal
I began my journey at Wā Ora in 2009 and have enjoyed the diversity of this position as it has developed over the years from PA to the Principal to now include Office Manager responsibilities. There are certainly many facets of this role to keep me busy including working alongside the Principal, the Senior Leadership Team and staff to ensure the smooth running of the school. I have two sons who attend Wā Ora and in my down time I enjoy being outdoors, walking and spending time with family and friends.
Dannielle King
Office Administrator
Kia ora. I have worked at Wā Ora since 2015, starting in the Preschool (mostly to increase my understanding of Montessori philosophy, as my daughter had just started) and also coordinating the playgroup for 4 years. It is amazing to see what a toddler can accomplish when given the chance, and I loved sharing my experiences at Wā Ora with families considering a Montessori education for their little one. Now you can find me working in the main office as the office administrator. In my spare time I enjoy reading, baking or cake decorating.
I have been learning Te Reo Māori for six years, and hold a level 6 Diploma so please feel free to kōrero Māori mai!
Hayley Luan (currently on Maternity Leave)
Executive Officer
Kia ora. My name is Hayley and I joined Wā Ora in 2018 as the Executive Officer. Being part of the administration and support team, I provide budgetary and financial information and reports to all stakeholders and work as the board secretary as well. I have a background in finance and accounting and have worked in the banking and a charitable sector before joining Wā Ora. In my spare time I enjoy watching movies, studying Japanese, reading books and travelling with my family and friends.
Sharon Darby
Financial Administrator
Emma Schrader
Enrolments Administrator
My sons started in the Wā Ora playgroup and preschool in 2015 and following on from this, I then I began working in the preschool classrooms at lunchtimes in 2016. This gave me an insight into the world my children inhabit on a daily basis and the freedom they have to explore their own path. We were quickly made to feel at home in the Wā Ora community and feel very lucky to be here. In 2017 I took on the role of Enrolments Administrator. When I’m not working, I enjoy sewing, cinema and catching up with friends and family.
Ashleigh Wilkins
Communications and Marketing Coordinator
Kia ora! My journey with Montessori started around 44 years ago when I attended Montessori preschool in Dunedin. My Wā Ora journey started almost 25 years ago when my mother started working (and still does!) at Wā Ora. So, you could say Montessori has been a way of life for me since I was a small child. I have India (10) who joined Wā Ora at 4 in Kōwhai when we moved to Lower Hutt from Wairarapa. She is now enjoying life in Tāwhai! I also have Leila (7) who has been a part of Wā Ora since crawling around the preschool playground at a few months old. She started her education journey in playgroup, went on to Nīkau when she was 3, and is now in Rātā! Becoming part of the amazing Wā Ora team was the next natural step, and I feel lucky to be part of the Wā Ora family. Outside of work, I love exploring the beautiful walks and beaches we have here in the Hutt, with my fur side-kick, Kali (who many of you will have met in the office), and getting into the garden when I have time!
Juliette George
Early Literacy Support and SENCO
Kia ora, our whānau has been involved with Wā Ora for more than 17 years. I am married with two children, both who have attended Wā Ora since playgroup. 2017 was my first official year at Wā Ora, teaching Reading Recovery and establishing the Senco role, after having spent many past years relieving across the school and full time teaching in other local Primary schools. I hold a Bachelor of Education from Victoria University and Diploma in Teaching from Wellington College of Education. My areas of passion in education are Literacy Support and Special Education. It is a privilege to integrate these areas of expertise with the lense of our special character throughout our Area school. I am currently the staff rep on the Board of Trustees.
“Poipoia te kākano kia puāwai” (“Nurture the seed and it will bloom”).
Hannah Tysoe
Librarian - Primary School
Kia ora! My employment at Wā Ora began in 2022. I have a background in administration & volunteering with children. I also have a Bachelor of Arts in Chinese Language and Asian Studies. I am a self-confessed book nerd and strongly believe that collecting books is the best way to decorate. I am excited that in my role as librarian I can encourage ngā tamariki in their reading journeys & research projects. I am also passionate about Montessori education and am looking forward to increasing my knowledge in this area. I have 3 children who attend the school. Outside school I enjoy playing board games, going on bush walks and reading a good book.
Lauren Collins
Administration Assistant
Kia Ora, Im Lauren Collins. I’ve just recently started here at Wā Ora and look forward to being involved with this wonderful school! I’ll be an administrative assistant while Hayley is away. My background has been mainly in hospitality and early childhood education. Outside of work, I have an adventurous 5 year old daughter who keeps me busy, was recently married and enjoy spending time with my family and our crazy dog!