We have some new faces among the Aquinas staffing lineup. Let’s introduce them…
Teacher of Music – Renee Brookland
Renee Brookland joined the Aquinas College team as our new Teacher of Music. She brings a wealth of musical experience, including participation in Chamber music competitions and experience as a music director in local productions. Miss Brookland holds a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Music and a minor in Theatre Studies.
Learning Support Coordinator – Lisa Budd
We welcome Lisa Budd back to Aquinas College as our Learning Support Coordinator. After a short time away, Mrs Budd returned at the start of this year. Her experience and dedication to supporting our students are invaluable.
Business Manager – Shelley Fearn
We bid farewell to Mrs Fearn, who has left Aquinas College after two years to pursue a new corporate opportunity. Her commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of our college’s finances through clear systems and her unwavering professionalism have significantly impacted our college. We wish Mrs Fearn the best of luck in her future endeavours.
Academic and Pastoral Care Coordinator of International Students – Helen Flore
Helen Flore has been appointed Academic and Pastoral Care Coordinator of International Students. Her passion and existing work with the International Department, alongside her role as French and ESOL teacher, make her ideally suited for this position.
Year 7/8 Homeroom Teacher – Jacqui French
We are pleased to welcome Jacqui French to the Aquinas College team as a Year 7/8 Homeroom Teacher. Ms French joined us this year, bringing extensive experience in intermediate-level education. She comes to us from Taumata School.
Pou Ārahi Mātauranga Māori – Tuwharetoa Hapi
We also say goodbye to Matua Hapi, who leaves us at the end of the term to join Rotorua Boys’ High School as Deputy Principal. His leadership in Matauranga Māori since 2019 has been invaluable, ensuring our commitment to Te Tiriti and providing vital support to tangata whenua. We extend our sincere gratitude for his contributions.
Head of Future Pathways – Andy Howells
Mr Howells is the new Head of Future Pathways. He will take over the role following the March 28 departure of Mikaere Smith, who has dedicated 20 years of service to the school. Mr Howells brings valuable experience to the position, having successfully led the department in an interim capacity last year.
Visual Arts Teacher – Larissa Lacey
We welcome Larissa Lacey to the Aquinas team as a Visual Arts Teacher! Miss Lacey joins us from Taupo-nui-a-Tia College, bringing her passion and expertise in visual arts, painting, design, and photography.
Teacher of Chemistry – Hannah Lerke
Hannah Lerke has joined the Science Faculty as a Chemistry Teacher. Miss Lerke recently moved to Tauranga, bringing 15 years of passion and expertise to our Science Department.
Arts Coordinator – Karla Lyford
Karla Lyford has been appointed as our permanent part-time Arts Coordinator. She offers a mix of creativity and experience, including a Bachelor of Communications, musical theatre involvement, and a strong media background.
Director of Performing Arts – Gillian Oosthuizen
Mrs Oosthuizen has been appointed Director of Performing Arts. Her expertise in the arts makes her a natural fit for this expanded role. She already holds the position of Drama Teacher, Assistant Leader of Learning for Arts, and Year 12 Dean.
Assistant Leader of Learning & RE Teacher – Liz Steer
Mrs. Steer’s teaching career includes experience at Tauranga Boys’ College and various Catholic schools in Auckland and Wellington. She is an active St. Thomas Aquinas Parish member, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and Reader. Mrs Steer also has a personal connection to Aquinas College as a parent.
Teacher of Mathematics – May Tran
Earlier this year, we welcomed May Tran to the Aquinas Mathematics Department. Mrs Tran joins us from Tauranga Girls’ College, where she served as Assistant Leader of Learning. She also has a deep connection to our school through her four children.
Teacher of DVC – Warren Mahy
Mr Mahy joined the Aquinas College team in Term 4 last year, bringing an impressive and extensive design and visual communications background. With over 25 years of experience, including work at Weta Workshop and Weta FX, as well as freelance illustration and pre-production film, he brings invaluable expertise. He also joins us as a parent within our school community.
