Kia ora e te whānau,

Here are our Year 7-13 Homebase Learning Advisor selections for 2027.

Please read everyone’s blurb and then fill in the form (large green button) at the bottom of this page.

Just a reminder, we cannot always guarantee everyone’s first choice, we will make every effort to. It is important to make good choices for your 2nd to 5th choices too.

If you have stumbled across this page, and you are NOT a 2026 student in our community, please do not fill this form out. This form is ONLY for the current 2026 students within the Kura.

Students who are new to Ao Tawhiti in 2027 will be placed in a Homebase that we believe will best suit your needs for the year.

NB… If you are a Year 9 in 2027, you are most welcome to continue on in the Year 7-9 community in 2027.

NB... Take care with your selections. Once the Homebases are allocated, they are usually all full, which means that changes are not usually possible.

Please complete this selection by 5pm Monday the 2nd of November.

Year 7-9 Homebase Learning Advisors

Gina Harrison # Year 7-9

Kia ora,
Ko Gina Harrison tōku ingoa.

In 2027 I am excited to be team-teaching Homebase with Libby again. I have been at Ao Tawhiti since 2013, teaching from year 0, right up to year 10. I love the relationships we create in our unique community, and enjoy having ākonga stay in my Homebase over multiple years. My favourite part of Ao Tawhiti is helping students follow their interests and passions and building the skills needed for really robust Arotahi projects. I love using the city as a resource, getting out and about to make connections with what we have learnt and real-life industries. Outside of Homebase, I also teach sewing and junior social studies.

I have a degree in Fine Arts and like to spend time making and creating with ākonga. I also really enjoy gardening, cooking and raising animals on our lifestyle block. Outside of school, my husband Ben and I have two young girls; Lavinia, who is 6 and at Ao Tawhiti and, Adalynn, who is almost 2.

Mā te wā,

Gina

Ian Hayes # Year 7-9

I’m really looking forward to having a Homebase in 2027.

I love playing and watching sport, I love travelling and I love working with technology. I really love DIY, building, fixing things and designing solutions to problems. I love visual art and wish I had more time to play with this.

In 2027, I’d love to work with students who are passionate about sport or just enjoy being active. Each week, we’ll spend time exploring ways to get better at the sports we love and make our experiences more enjoyable and rewarding.
I’d like to look at the things that help athletes in any sport — like good nutrition and hydration, getting enough rest and sleep, building fitness, strength, speed, and flexibility, and learning how to use our minds to perform at our best.
We won’t be about learning specific sport skills. Instead, we’ll focus on the key things that make a difference in every sport: fitness, mindset, and good habits.

If sport isn’t your thing, that’s fine, we will create a plan that lets you follow your passions, pushes and challenges you and helps you take responsibility for your learning.

Kay Hayes # Year 7-9

Kia ora!

I’m Kay Hayes, and I’ve been supporting young people in student-led environments for over two decades. I love helping students discover new passions and push through challenges that come up along the way.

I’m a huge advocate for hands-on, project-based learning. Whether it’s building, sewing, gardening, crafting, cooking, or designing, I love using real-world projects to unlock what makes each student tick. I’m especially passionate about supporting ideas that make a difference—whether that’s organising events, fundraising, giving back to our community, or running a school market stall. In my Homebase, you’ll always be encouraged to step out of your comfort zone, embrace your strengths, and target the areas you want to grow in.

This year I ran a class called Trash to Treasure, where students used project-based learning to design, create, and repurpose items in innovative ways—and just wait until you see what we’re planning for 2027! We recently won an award to purchase a brand-new plastic injection machine, which will allow us to transform recycled milk bottle lids into our very own custom products.

Outside of school, I’m big on travel, sports, pilates, and getting up into the mountains. I love running the whole-school ski trips to Mount Hutt each year—there’s nothing quite like watching someone try snowboarding or skiing for the very first time and getting hooked!

Having extensive experience in both primary and secondary settings, as well as being the Year 7–9 Community Leader, I understand this stage of learning deeply. Our team has put a lot of heart into creating a supportive community that makes the shift from primary to secondary feel smooth and connected. As a Homebase Learning Advisor, I am committed to getting to know you personally and working alongside your whānau to build a culturally inclusive space where you feel fully backed and valued for who you are.

I’m already looking forward to working alongside our Year 7–9 students in 2027. I’d love to have you join our Homebase!

Cheers,

Kay

Libby Boyd # Year 7-9

This year, Gina and I will be sharing a Home Base, supporting students with their Arotahi goals and projects, developing literacy skills, and encouraging independence and high expectations for self-directed learning.

We’re also hoping to fit in more art and creative projects along the way!

We want our HB to be a place where people enjoy learning, give things a go, take on challenges and make the most of the amazing learning opportunities around our city.

We’re here to support you, but we also expect everyone to uphold our core values and play their part in making our Home Base a fun, positive and welcoming space for everyone.

Lindsay Greene # Year 7-9

Kia ora,
Ko Lindsay tōku ingoa. I have been part of the Ao Tawhiti community for 9 years as a parent, learning assistant, and learning advisor. I am mum to Marieka who will be in year 10 next year in the senior community. I love our special character and the agency that students have to make choices and take opportunities at our kura.

In 2027, my homebase will have a focus on the arts. Some of my favourite things to do with my homebase are drama, social deduction games, preparing for our musical theatre performances, and working together to create costumes, props and sets.

Our literacy learning will be connected to the arts through things like scriptwriting, reading plays, creating advertisements, and real-life opportunities such as contacting vendors and promoting performances.

I love finding creative ways to make learning meaningful, giving learners opportunities to work together, explore their interests, and bring their ideas to life. And don’t worry, you don’t have to love being on stage to get involved!

Suze Lamont # Year 7-9

Join Suze’s Home Base, where Whanaungatanga (building strong relationships) and Aroha (compassion, kindness, and care) are at the heart of everything we do.

Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment where everyone feels they belong. Home Base is a place to learn, have fun, challenge ourselves, and celebrate our successes. Respect, kindness, and active participation are expectations, and we’ll work together to support one another to achieve our goals.

I’m passionate about helping you grow into a confident, independent learner who takes responsibility for your own learning and wellbeing. I believe everyone has strengths to contribute, and we’ll encourage each other to be our best every day.

Outside of Ao Tawhiti, I’m a busy mum of three. I love spending time on and in the water, exploring the beautiful outdoors of Aotearoa, enjoying great food, and playing and watching sport.

If this sounds like the Home Base for you, bring your energy, enthusiasm, humour, and a positive attitude, and let’s make 2027 an amazing year together!

Year 7-9 Homebase Selection

Year 9-13 Homebase Learning Advisors

Beth Manders and Richard Pitts # Year 9-13

Welcome to the Specialist Digital Media Homebase. This runs quite differently to other homebases, so make sure you’ve spoken to Richard and Beth before signing up.

An increased amount of HB time (equivalent to three colour blocks) offers you the opportunity to complete larger projects within these areas, be it at NCEA level or building towards that! Across the course of the year you’ll study films/novels/short stories/games within HB, that will provide you with cool material to base your projects on. We’ll have time dedicated to upskilling with software – learning the ins and outs of programmes like Photoshop, Illustrator and Premiere Pro, as well as how to do stuff like create branding for a business, produce a film, make a graphic novel, design a creepy creature as a 3d model, and many other things!

We love reading, films (making them and watching them!), and art and design. We have lots of fun finding projects to do together that focus on those topics, and challenging ourselves to learn new things within those areas. We emphasise the social aspect of school in this homebase – that means students like to work together where possible.

Talk to our current HB members: we have high expectations around behaviour, cleanliness, respect and personal achievement. If you’re willing to push yourself and participate, you’ll have a really rewarding time. We’ve got lots of cool tips and tricks to help you along your way, and we’ll be involved wherever we can, but ultimately the responsibility for making school awesome falls to you.

What this might look like for you:
*You’ll work with us to develop some overall goals for the year. Want to learn animation, or digital drawing, or write a TV series? Want to 3d design and print your D&D creatures? Want to make a zine club for the school?
*You’ll write up your own weekly 1:1s and IEMs, to reflect on how school is going.
*You’ll chase up LAs to correct your own attendance issues, and to build an NCEA plan (where applicable).
*Your goals, progress, and arotahi focus will be visible and referred to often.
*Arotahi and OSL aren’t automatic entitlements. Expect to be challenged lots on your effective use of this time! Luckily, you’ll be surrounded with lots of other motivated students to help push you along.

Carl Burr # Year 9-13

Welcome to The Garage, a homebase for students who want their learning to have a focus on Technology and Design and Visual Communication (DVC). This homebase provides increased access to workshop machinery and tools, making it suited for hands-on Arotahi projects.

As a member of this homebase, you are expected to undertake a technology-related project. This can be an individual or group project, and it can work as a standalone focus or an extension of an existing course.

Your work during homebase will be assessed using Unit or Achievement Standards so you can earn credits while you create. If you want to design architectural spaces, build physical products, or develop your skills with workshop equipment, The Garage provides the necessary tools and space and opportunities to link your learning with both tertiary and vocational pathways in a wide range of fields.

Sarena Close # Year 9-13

Kia ora, I’m Sarena, the new Learning Advisor for Music in 2027. I’m really excited to meet everyone! I love music and have been playing a variety of instruments since I was young.

I’m an artist myself who writes, records and performs music. I have released 3 albums and been on many tours with my own music and as a part of other bands.

My Homebase will focus around music creation, songwriting and performance. Would you like to be a part of regular music performances? Do you love creating music? Or would you just like to try something new? Skills are great, but creativity and being able to express yourself through music is what matters to me most.

With that said, if you’re looking to put yourself or a band forward for any competitions like Rockquest (band/solo), Jazzquest, Southern Jam, Play it Strange, Tangata Beats then this Homebase would be an amazing space to grow.

Derek Thatcher # Year 9-13

Kia ora e te whānau,
As a Learning Advisor since 2006 teaching Mathematics and Digital Technology, my goal is simple: to help you grow into a confident, capable, and self-reliant learner. I act as an advisor, mentor, and sounding board to keep you motivated, challenged, and accountable to your goals.

What to expect in HB Derek:

A Culture of Problem Solving: My personal passions centre around tackling tough challenges—from software development, web design, and programming to outdoor sports like rock climbing, mountain biking, and surfing (as well as photography, cubing, DIY, and LEGO).
If you are eager to challenge yourself, master your NCEA pathway, dive into tech and programming, and turn your ideas into real projects, I look forward to working alongside you!
Nāku iti noa,
Derek

NCEA & Pathway Expertise: Navigating NCEA doesn’t have to be confusing. Having guided many students through the system, I am an expert in mapping out NCEA pathways, helping you track your credits, and structuring your learning so you reach your goals efficiently and stress-free.

Programming & Tech Focus: If you’re passionate about coding, software development, web design, or digital creation, you’ll find plenty of support here. I can help you elevate your tech skills, work through code, and turn complex ideas into functional digital solutions.

Project-Driven Learning: I encourage students to keep multiple projects running at once so you always have something meaningful to work on. I’m always available to help you troubleshoot obstacles or bounce new ideas around.

Craig Perry # Year 9-13

Kia ora, I am really looking forward to having a Homebase in 2027. I have been teaching for 20+ years and a Learning Advisor and Community Leader here at Ao Tawhiti since 2019.
Outside of school, I am super interested in rock climbing, surfing, kayaking, staying fit and healthy and having adventures.

In 2027 I’d love to work with students who are willing to give things a go, say yes to challenges and take advantage of the opportunities that Ao Tawhiti provides. We will have some expected Homebase routines but also the flexibility for you to pursue your own passions and interests.

Emily Marck (she/her) Ally Grosvenor # Year 9-13

Kia ora e te whanau!

Once again Emily and I will be combining our homebase to work and hang out together. Our focus for 2027 will be continuing to grow our community and if you opt in to participate, The Duke of Edinburgh Award. This award is an exciting programme that encourages you to get out and about, participate in cool activities, community service, and personal growth. (more information linked below)

Our homebase will continue to be a welcoming, open-minded space where diversity is celebrated while also being a place where work gets done! If you are someone who loves to participate in activities, work well with others, and are open to trying new things this is the homebase for you!

Hi, I am Emily and I am passionate about helping students create their own business ideas and become real world entrepreneurs. I have lived in London, Amsterdam and Frankfurt working in finance while playing hockey and cricket. This year I will be teaching all things business.

Hi, I’m Ally! I’m really looking forward to spending 2027 with you all! I’m an English teacher at heart, but I also enjoy exploring the fascinating worlds of Greek and Roman Mythology. I am a passionate person and love sharing my obsessions; like books, movies, swimming, Marvel, cool stickers, and my cats. But even more, I love to hear about what excites you!

Duke of Edinburgh Information links:
https://dofehillary.org.nz/about/ – Duke of Ed Website
https://youtu.be/3CaK-eXln4U?si=JjInNekZBogTprhM – Video about the programme

Evan Kiddey # Year 9-13

Kia ora Ao Tawhiti whānau for 2027,

I’m Evan Kiddey, and I’m excited to welcome you to our Senior Homebase 9–13 for 2027! As a father of two boys, with 20 years of experience as a chef and small business owner, I bring my passion for food, connection, and real-world learning straight into our Homebase culture.

Our Homebase will have a strong focus on hospitality and kai. By incorporating Red Block into our Homebase, we’ll have 9 hours each week dedicated to following our passions. Together, we’ll dive deep into what it takes to run a successful cafe—from barista and kitchen skills to understanding customer service and business operations. If your passion lies in hospo, cooking, and food culture, this is the place to take those interests to the absolute maximum.

Beyond our school kitchen and cafe, we’ll be connecting directly with our local industry—visiting local cafes and restaurants and speaking with head chefs and business owners to see how they operate behind the scenes.

Above all, whanaungatanga is at the heart of everything we do. We will build a tight-knit, supportive community where everyone looks out for each other. Grounded in our Core Values and Guiding Principles, I hold high expectations for our group. I’ll provide the structure, encouragement, and industry insights—you bring the drive!

Looking forward to making 2027 an incredible year together.

Greg O’Neill # Year 9-13

Kia ora koutou,

I’m Greg – I teach some Science and Maths, but that’s not all of me. I love getting outdoors biking and taking on challenges, and I love being part of a community that embraces everyone’s passions including yours whatever it is – I’m happy that you’re happy about it.

Some of my most successful ākonga have had entirely different academic interests to me and yet our ‘one to ones’ go for far too long, as we chat about their arotahi, it’s connection to society and the future it will lead them to.

As for my Arotahi, I love taking on little projects, I’ve restored an old BMX bike and aim to do a restomod on a road bike soon. This year I’ve landscaped and assembled a glasshouse. In the coming years I aim to take on a few trips and camps, so would be too keen to help you plan yours.

The most important thing we have in common as our respect for each other. So passion you’re willing to act on; and respect for others is all you’ll need to bring.

Marz Hunt # Year 9-13

Senior NCEA Art students, the art department is the place to be!

If you’re an artsy, creative person who wants to hang out in the art department (just like I did when I was your age) and make stuff you’re genuinely proud of, you’re very welcome here!

Our Homebase is ideal if you’re studying senior NCEA Art, whether it’s Painting, Design, Photography, Printmaking or Sculpture. It’s a chance to escape the usual chaos, get some extra help, bounce ideas around, get feedback or figure out what you’re doing next with your folio.

Whether you’re bursting with ideas or staring at a blank screen, hoping artistic inspiration will magically appear, come and join us! Bring your creative genius (or creative crisis) and make yourself at home.

I’m always happy to help turn those “I have absolutely no idea what I’m doing” moments into something pretty awesome. And who knows, you might even get some work done!

A little about me: I’m an art and design geek who loves photography, filmmaking, animation, vintage treasures, geeking out over architecture and pretty much anything creative. Basically, I’m easily distracted by interesting things!

I have a degree in Design and many years of experience in the art and design industry and visual arts education. My career has taken me from working as a Sign Writer to Senior Art Director in a large advertising and design agency to tutoring tertiary-level design, and eventually back to teaching teens! I’ve picked up plenty of industry knowledge and practical experience along the way, which I love sharing with students.

I’m also a huge fan of retro movies and TV shows, and alternative music. I was an alternative kid, a slightly disaffected youth (haha), and an ex “Not Goth!” person, so if you’ve ever felt a little outside the mainstream, I get you!

Basically, whether you’re alternative, artsy, quietly creative, creatively chaotic or just doing your own thing, you’ll fit right in!

Megan Taylor # Year 9-13

Kia ora koutou. I’m super passionate about learning and about helping you get the most out of your high school years. I’m an English LA and I also love learning languages. I know some French and German and recently I’ve been learning Te Reo and Spanish. In my spare time I love to read, listen to music, keep active and spend time with family and friends. One of my absolute favourite things to do is travel.

In this Homebase we will put effort into establishing good habits and routines to support you with your learning and arotahi. Together we’ll develop a learning plan that builds on your strengths and interests.

Nic Kelly # Year 9-13

Kia ora e te whānau

2027 will be my third year at Ao Tawhiti and I am excited about continuing to learn how to better cater for students learning needs. I have high expectations of myself and students, as I want to support them to achieve to their potential and to thrive both academically and personally. I endeavour to walk alongside students to help them explore learning pathways that both excite them and create the foundations for their futures. With experience in transitional education and high performance sport, I believe I can think outside the square and mentor students to grow their intrinsic motivation. I look forward to working together to find learning pathways that both excite you and create the foundations required for wherever you want to go.

My goal is to create a positive learning environment within Homebase so all student feel supported in their learning and challenged to achieve their full potential. I look forward to facilitating personal growth, skills, knowledge and passion in our Homebase over 2027. I can assist with transition to work/tertiary education, sports achievement/training, craft/sewing projects or outdoor passions. I enjoy mountain-biking, tramping, kayaking, netball and skiing with friends, whanau and students – I am passionate about shared adventures.

My specialist subjects are Physical Education, Health and Outdoor Education. However I have taught many other subjects over the years including transition and technology.

Vicki Parker # Year 9-13

Art students, the art department is the place to be!

If you’re an artsy, creative person who wants to hang out in the art department (just like I did when I was your age) and make stuff you’re genuinely proud of, you’re very welcome here!

I’m always happy to help turn those “I have absolutely no idea what I’m doing” moments into something pretty awesome. And who knows, you might even get some work done!

Basically, whether you’re alternative, artsy, quietly creative, creatively chaotic or just doing your own thing, you’ll fit right in!

The Agora Programme

The Agora programme will be running again in 2027! This programme is designed for self-motivated students interested in making connections to university courses through STAR funding, integrating a variety of NCEA assessment opportunities from different subjects into one project, and having the freedom and support to truly direct their entire learning programme. In 2026 students attended University of Canterbury STAR courses in Philosophy, Anthropology and Classical Studies. Integrated NCEA assessment projects included a combined English, Art History and Art programme built around the films of Wes Anderson. Mature and self-directed students were fully supported to take total control over where, when and how they reached their learning goals.

Students interested in Philosophy, History, Sociology, Psychology, Politics, Civics, Art, Art History, Media Studies, and/or Classical studies AND ready for the freedom to take on the responsibility of driving their own programme of learning are encouraged to join. If any of this sounds exciting, please speak with Richard, Brent or Megan.

Richard McCance # Year 9-13 # Agora | Whai Kōrerorero

I have been working in the senior end of the school for the past 20+ years and am best at supporting mature students who want help with an academic/NCEA focus. Independent students who would like advice and guidance on self-directed learning options or those interested in taking more control over their learning programme are the types who work best in my homebase. My interests include art and architecture, current affairs and seeking out the good life.

In 2027 Brent, Megan and I will be continuing to build on the Agora programme . This programme is designed for senior students interested in making connections to university courses through STAR funding, integrated NCEA assessment opportunities and support for self-directed learning.

We encourage you to take charge of your learning and prepare for the next step in your academic journey. This is your opportunity to experience a university-style approach to learning, where you’ll have the freedom to explore your interests and design your own senior program.

If any of this sounds like it would work for you, I encourage you to consider joining my HB

Megan Woods # Year 9-13 # Agora | Whai Kōrerorero

Are you just ‘happy enough’ with school, or ready to help shape something better?

Do you ever feel curious about ideas that don’t quite fit into the standard timetable?
Would you like to be part of a learning community that’s creative, purposeful, and connected?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, and you’ll be in Year 10 or above in 2026, I’d love you to consider joining my Homebase next year.

As a Learning Advisor, I’m passionate about helping students design learning that actually fits who they are and what they care about. I also support the Prosillio Programme — a partnership with Canterbury Ballet that supports dedicated young people to combine their creative passions with meaningful academic pathways

Next year, I’ll be working alongside Brent Silby and Richard McCance on Agora | Whai Kōrerorero, a new NCEA initiative for senior students who want more autonomy, depth, and connection in their learning.

Our goal is to build a homebase community where we share food, form real relationships, and collaborate to make Ao Tawhiti an even more inspiring place to learn and belong.

If that sounds like you, come and have a chat with any of us; we’d love to tell you more.

Brent Silby # Year 9-13 # Agora | Whai Kōrerorero

Do you like to be treated with the maturity to make your own education decisions?

Do you love exploring new ideas?

Do you see yourself on a pathway to university?

If you answered “yes” to the above, don’t miss out on the opportunity to join Brent’s homebase.

In 2027, we (Richard, Megan, and Brent) will be continuing to build on the Agora programme. This programme is designed for senior students interested in making connections to university courses through STAR funding, integrated NCEA assessment opportunities, and support for self-directed learning. Students interested in History, Art History, Sociology, Politics, Civics and Philosophy are encouraged to join our HBs.

We encourage you to take charge of your learning and prepare for the next step in your academic journey. So this is your opportunity to experience a university-style approach to learning, where you’ll have the freedom to explore your interests and design your own senior program.

About Brent: Philosopher by day, DJ by night! I have a Masters degree (and part of a PhD) in Philosophy. My research interests include: philosophy of AI, philosophy of mind, philosophy of religion, and stoic philosophy. Outside of school I am “DJ Maestro B”. I play every Saturday night at Casa Publica, as well as regular nights at Cascade and some afternoons at Delilah.

How it works: During homebase time, you’ll have the flexibility to study independently, engage in meaningful discussions with friends, or get tailored support on any academic subjects you choose. Whether you’re keen to take a Classics course through Te Kura, enroll in STAR funded university courses, or independently explore issues in Science and Philosophy, I’ll be here to help you out.

The Impact Collective

Ready to create something that gets everyone talking?
Ready to make an actual impact that matters?
Ready to turn big ideas into real-world action?
Ready to make your mark on something real?

The Impact Collective Community is linking up across seven Homebases (Mark, Jess, Matt P, Sam, Kate, Michelle, and Anne-Marie) to bring your ideas to life. Whether you want to take charge or learn the ropes, this is your chance to step up, flex your skills, and make noise in our school and beyond.

How It Works…
Seniors (Tuakana): Lead the charge, mentor the crew, and show everyone how it’s done.
Juniors (Teina): Gain confidence, pick up project skills, and run real, large-scale projects alongside senior mentors.

Some ideas for Term 1….
# Adventures in STEM: Build electric skateboards, e-bikes, scooters, drift carts, battle bots, or wild interactive science setups.
# Ao Tawhiti Podcast: Launch, host, and produce our school’s official podcast from scratch.
# Community Camp: Plan, organise, and execute an epic outdoor getaway.
# The Building Crew: Get hands-on and construct real-world builds around the school and beyond.
# Exhibitions: Visit a range of cultural venues, interview artists and curators then plan, build and deliver exhibitions at school.
# Beyond Us: Your Own Custom Idea: Have a huge project you’re dying to launch? Bring it to the table and make it happen.

The Setup…
We get dedicated project hours every week to collab, test, and build—balanced right alongside your regular study and Arotahi time. We work as tight-knit teams, so always showing up, being totally committed and bringing the energy is absolutely vital. At the end of the term, we showcase everything we built to family, friends, and the community.

Ready to create something awesome? Join the Impact Collective Community by choosing Mark, Jess, Matt P, Sam, Kate, Michelle, or Anne-Marie for your HBLA! Read more about them below…

Mark Stone # Year 9-13 # The Impact Collective

Ko Mark tōku ingoa, I have ten years teaching and mainly teach Mathematics. Though I trained as a P.E teacher so I was cool once.

I’m really looking forward to continuing to be part of such a creative and inspiring learning community. I’m passionate about helping students grow into confident, capable leaders who make a positive difference in the world around them.

In our homebase there is sure to be chat about football, rugby and kī-o-Rahi. You can also expect the usual supports you need to help guide you through you schooling with advice on how to set yourself up for success whatever your ambition.

Jess Dewhurst # Year 9-13 # The Impact Collective

Kia ora koutou,

Ko Jess tōku ingoa. I am a Science and Mathematics Learning Advisor with a particular interest in Biology and Chemistry.

Outside of kura, my passions revolve around music and art. I play the saxophone and clarinet in several groups, ranging from classical ensembles to jazz big bands. I enjoy all sorts of arts and crafts, with my main focus at the moment being knitting and crochet.

My homebase is an inclusive space where everyone is welcome. As your homebase learning advisor, I will be your biggest advocate, working alongside you to help problem-solve, stay on track with your goals, and be a sounding board to bounce ideas off. If that sounds like a bit of you, I’d love for you to join my homebase next year!

Anne-Marie Hampton # Year 9-13 # The Impact Collective

Ko Anne-Marie tōku ingoa.

I’ve been Kaitiaki (Dean for Senior students) at Ao Tawhiti for 5 years and have been working in Secondary education for over 20 years originally as an English/ESOL teacher. I have also spent a number of years working in Student Support at Ara. I have a great knowledge of careers and courses available to students who are keen to explore some offsite learning.

My passions and interests include whānau, anything outdoors especially landscaping, tramping and travel. I also love reading, movies and DIY projects including sewing and upholstery. This HomeBase is about doing things and I will encourage you to get stuck in and have a few projects on the go. I am enthusiastic about learning new skills, and will help guide and inspire you to access opportunities and experiences both at school and offsite. I’m pretty creative and always up for bouncing ideas around when you get a bit stuck or unsure. If you’re keen to come and give things a go and be hands-on then come and have some fun!

Matt Parkes # Year 9-13 # The Impact Collective

Matt P – brief histories: UK born; bass player (only played 2 live gigs, both shut down by police for being too loud); global backpacker (lived in 7 countries, visited over 50); qualified instructor – outdoor pursuits, bushcraft, SCUBA diving, outdoor first aid & archery; Coastguard Canterbury team leader; Christchurch schools’ canoe polo manager; Certificate in Outdoor Leadership, Diploma in Psychology, honours degree in Physics with Astrophysics.

Personal interests include Planetary + Space Science, environmentalism, technology, music and sports (especially skiing, kayaking and almost anything else involving mountains or water).

Michelle Verkaaik # Year 9-13 # The Impact Collective

2027 will be my eighth year at Ao Tawhiti and I’m super excited to be part of such a dynamic learning community. I am relentlessly positive about my students and what they can achieve, but I also have high expectations that my students work hard to reach their goals. I look forward to working together to find learning pathways that both excite you and create the foundations required for wherever you want to go.

My goal is to create a positive learning environment within my homebase where every student feels supported in their learning and challenged to achieve their full potential.
My specialist subjects are Biology, Science and Maths and my passions are environmental issues and sustainability.

Kate Armour # Year 9-13 # The Impact Collective

Kia ora koutou

Ko Kate tōku ingoa. I’ve been teaching at Ao Tawhiti for over 10 years, and I love it here!

My passions and interests revolve around whānau, gardening, yoga, Chinese and Korean dramas, social and environmental issues, and still learning to be a better LA everyday. In a previous life, I worked for the Department of Conservation, a local council, and as an ESOL teacher. I’m a parent of three young adults. I teach across science and social sciences. I also have a literacy role.

In this home base, you’ll be supported to come up with clear goals for your learning, and you’ll be ready to jump on board with one of the projects on offer in Term One.

I am really looking forward to seeing what we can learn and do together in 2027.

Sam Buchanan # Year 9-13 # The Impact Collective

Kia ora koutou

Ko Sam Buchanan tōku ingoa. I have been a Maths teacher for almost a decade now, and 2027 will be my second year of having a home base here at Ao Tawhiti.

Professionally, I would say my strength comes in my ability to understand and support students and their whānau to navigate the unique journey through our kura. I love this school and the amount of resourcing it gives to home base. I value this opportunity to build relationships and get to know students as people, and work hard to ensure that students have every chance to live up to their potential.

Outside of school my passions and interests involve reading, listening to and playing music, walking, and keeping up to date with the world of politics, economics and other social issues. At home I have two fluffy cats and a dog that very much keep me on my toes! If this isn’t enough already I am also working towards my Masters in Education Psychology, which I think gives me a unique lens on the experience of students at school, and useful skills to help them along the way.

This year for me was about finding my feet with the home-base system. Next year I am really excited about joining the projects community and finding ways to push and extend my students into developing meaningful skills and having a wide range of fun and exciting experiences. Please join me if this sounds like a bit of you :)!

Year 9-13 Homebase Selection