Horizon teachers and staff are selected for their love for children and young people, love for teaching and for learning and commitment to creating an environment in which our learners might want to learn and to connect with God in some way.
Leadership
Master's degree, Business Administration and Management, General
My background includes broad experience in social science research and issue based analysis, a Master’s degree in Cross-Cultural management and extensive travel experience. Delving into social and economic issues and the underlying causes is a passion of mine. I have proven analytical ability, having planned, written and published large scale research reports.
Prior to my role at Horizon I was the Head of Senior School at KingsWay School in Red Beach. My experience, both as a researcher in a policy think tank and more recently as an educator, have allowed me to hone my communication skills, ability to build relationships across diverse groups and team related skills.
Bachelor of Teaching
My teaching career began in the Waikato before working in a specialist role in South Auckland. I then spent nine years teaching in the UAE in the Middle East before returning back to Aotearoa to work in a Special Education school in Hamilton.
My primary role at Horizon is Deputy Principal but I am also a classroom teacher. I am committed to raising achievement for all learners by fostering an inclusive and culturally responsive environment that promotes a sense of belonging and acceptance for all.
I live locally with my amazing wife Carmel who also works here at Horizon and two children. I enjoy skateboarding, experiencing live music, mountain biking, exploring local beaches, and have recently taken up surfing.
BA, BTchg (Secondary) Dip Christian Leadership
I am a rural girl at heart. Being brought up on a farm in Northland meant I learnt the value of hard work and team work. I love all things nature and love adventures - especially travel! I love spending time with my husband and two girls – camping, hiking, water activities!
As the Assistant Principal, I aim to see students and staff flourish and thrive at Horizon School. People matter to me and it's why I do what I do. I love the family vibe at Horizon and the way that people are able to belong, no matter their differences.
Performing Arts is a passion of mine. I write plays, perform, direct, and especially love musicals.
Bachelor of Education (Honours), Bachelor of Arts, Primary Teacher Diploma
I am originally from Durban, South Africa. I arrived in New Zealand in 1997. I am married to Odette and we have two sons, Byron (38) and Lance (35)
My primary role is to teach and support the students in front of me. However my pastoral role at Horizon School depends on me establishing good relationships with my colleagues, the students and their whanau. I enjoy the "challenges" of successful dispute resolution.
My work-life balance is maintained by my involvement in sport. I referee adult football on Saturdays, enjoy watching UFC and most importantly, spending time with my wife and sons.
Support
I was born and raised in Auckland, spending most of the holidays in either Snells Beach or Omaha. I've previously been a paediatric nurse, working mostly at Starship Hospital, until my husband and I decided to move to beautiful Snells Beach with our 3 children.
I'm part of the amazing admin team at Horizon. I have always loved working with children and have been involved with my own kids' school in various roles in the past. I love working with a group of passionate people who are genuinely interested in the wellbeing of our students and upholding the school's Christian special character.
Outside of school I enjoy spending quality time with my family, watching the kids' sports and activities, exploring nature and making memories together.
Bachelor of Design
I worked in the fashion and design industry in New Zealand until moving to the UAE where I lived for almost 9 years. My children were born in Abu Dhabi and my eldest started his schooling there. We moved back in 2019 to be closer to whānau and have our children experience life here.
I am the one snapping photos, putting together newsletters and doing a little bit of everything in the school office. I love the connection to the Tamariki, whānau and community that this job has given me.
Our family love to travel and explore different cultures. Spending time with our wider family is a very intentional goal for our family. I also enjoy sewing, weaving, building Lego and decorating cakes.
I grew up in Germany. My family lived in Russia as well so I speak both German and Russian. The city I’m from is one of the oldest in Germany with beautiful cathedrals and cobblestones. I am married and have 4 beautiful children.
I am an office administrator which makes me the person who takes your phone calls, replies to your emails, does the daily student attendance and many other little things on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
I love reading and spending my days at the beach or boat with my family. I also enjoy running or going on hikes. New Zealand is absolutely stunning and there is so much to see.
Primary
Bachelor of Education (Primary and ECE), Bachelor of Education (Psychology of Education)
In 2008, my husband and I moved to New Zealand where I helped establish and manage one of the largest preschools in Takapuna for 10 years. After maternity leave, I returned to Primary Education as a relief teacher in Auckland before moving to Ahuroa when I began teaching at Horizon.
I have the privilege of teaching the youngest students in our school. Their passion and enthusiasm for life drive me. I believe in making the classroom a fun-filled space where everyone is accepted and inspired to reach their full potential. My role is fostering a love for learning and school, setting them up well for future years.
When I'm not at school, I enjoy spending my time doing anything creative. I love DIY projects and interior decorating.
Bachelor of Arts, Post Graduate Diploma in Teaching
Ko Katherine Wyllie tēnei. I have been teaching for six years. I have just returned to teaching after having my lovely daughter.
I am a kaiako in the New Entrant space here at Horizon School. I love supporting tamariki as they make the transition to school life. I am a passionate junior teacher.
I spend a lot of time with my whānau and friends outside of school.
Bachelor of Teaching (Primary)
My family and I live on a farm in the Omaha area. I have 2 teenage daughters and my husband is a farm manager.
I am a primary school teacher and have taught in a variety of schools for almost 20 years. My passion is to make each pupil feel important.
I feel blessed to be working here at Horizon, as I really enjoy interacting with children, and to be a part of this staff who are so passionate about what they do.
I also look after our school library and am privileged to be working with a fantastic team of dedicated volunteers.
B-Prim Ed
I moved her from South Africa 16 years ago. I am married, Have two sons and a super cute granddaughter. Horizon School has been a real calling for my life. God has truly blessed our time here, and given us strong ties into the community.
My roles within the school vary as a teacher, team leader and WSL Kahui Ako leader. I love working with the students and building relationships with them.
I have learnt to bike ride and have been on many (easy) mountain bike adventures. Our favourite caravan holiday is somewhere with a cycleway. When I am in the forest either walking or cycling I seem to feel God's presence more and my soul is restored.
Bachelor in Education, postgraduate in digital leadership
I am born and raised in Waitakere. After schooling I travelled to England to work and explore Europe. When I returned, I studied teaching while also working as a Swim Coach. My first teaching position was in West Auckland in an Enviro School surrounded by NZ Native bush. I left West Auckland to be closer to family, the beach and a smaller community. I am married and have 3 beautiful girls
My role at Horizon is to support the year 3/4 children through their education. I enjoy getting to know the children and whanau, learning about their passions and exploring new learning together.
In my free time I enjoy swimming, bush walks, learning about the environment, being outside with my kids, movie nights and baking.
Bachelor of Teaching
My teaching career began in the Waikato before working in a specialist role in South Auckland. I then spent nine years teaching in the UAE in the Middle East before returning back to Aotearoa to work in a Special Education school in Hamilton.
My primary role at Horizon is Deputy Principal but I am also a classroom teacher. I am committed to raising achievement for all learners by fostering an inclusive and culturally responsive environment that promotes a sense of belonging and acceptance for all.
I live locally with my amazing wife Carmel who also works here at Horizon and two children. I enjoy skateboarding, experiencing live music, mountain biking, exploring local beaches, and have recently taken up surfing.
Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary), Bachelor of Sport and Recreation
I grew up in the local area and have a very strong connection to this beautiful place we call home. I am married with 3 children who attend Horizon School and love being connected to our local church.
I recently moved from teaching new entrant Tamariki, to teaching year 5/6. I love connecting with the heart of each learner and seeing them understand new concepts. I am also passionate about seeing the Special Character of our school flourish in the lives of all our learners.
I enjoy being active in the beautiful outdoors, reading a good book and drinking coffee.
Bachelor of Teaching (Primary)
I have been teaching for around 10 years, interspersed with having a few children of my own, and have spent the majority of my teaching career with new entrants and year one.
I love creating a classroom environment where the children know they are safe, loved and inspired and one of my most favourite things is seeing their 'yes' moment, where new learning is secured. My strengths are very literacy based and teaching writing is my true passion. As well as this, I love creating a bright and vibrant classroom full of beautiful artwork that show-case children's unique creativity.
I feel blessed to be a part of the Horizon team. This truly is the best school I have worked at and I'm excited for my own family to become life-long learners here too.
Bachelor of Education
Originally from Scotland, I had the luck to meet and marry a young man from New Zealand while I was travelling. We have two boys who went to school locally but have since flown the nest.
I love the variety of my role in looking for ways to support students across years 0-13. There is no one-size-fits all, so I am on a continuous quest to up-skill, to understand and discover the best way forward for individuals.
Outside of school I enjoy spending time with family and friends. If the weather is right, you can find me either on or in the sea, or in the bush getting amongst nature.
Diploma in teaching, certificate in life coaching
My family moved to Snells Beach 23 years ago to start up an alternative education school. I love what the smaller community vibe brings, meeting new people and keeping active with my family.
The combination of teaching and life coaching led me to being a Wellbeing Coach at Horizon 2 days a week. I believe students need a safe place where they feel they belong and their strengths are celebrated.
I like nothing better than to connect with friends and family and enjoying what our community has to offer. One of my greatest achievements was walking Base Camp a few years ago.
BED, Dip Teaching
I felt the call to become a teacher at the age of 17. Over the years I enjoyed teaching in a range of state schools at various levels. Most recently I was a classroom teacher at Matakana School for 16 years.
Having recently retired, I joined the staff at Horizon on a part time basis in Reading Recovery. I am thrilled to be doing this as I strongly believe early reading intervention for those who are struggling is essential to get them back on track and to assist and empower them in their future learning journey.
I really enjoy biking, with my husband David, gardening, tramping, swimming, and spending time at the beach. We also enjoy spending time with our family whenever we can.
I am married, and a mother of four sons. My family and I relocated from South Africa in January of 2018.
I am a teacher's aide, and I thoroughly enjoy assisting children who require additional support. It brings me great joy to witness their progress and development.
I am a person who prefers the comforts of home. I find great pleasure in reading and crocheting. Additionally, I truly value the infrequent chances to engage in social interactions with my friends. I cherish the moments spent with my family, whether it be on the farm or embarking on exciting adventures.
College
Bachelor's Degree in Business Admin, MBA, Diploma in Teaching (secondary)
Originally starting life overseas, I grew up in Los Angeles and I have also lived in San Francisco and London. I then made the move to New Zealand in 2019. I am married and have two daughters who are students here at Horizon.
I teach Maths, Business Studies, STEM, and Formation. I enjoy empowering and encouraging young people.
My hobbies include rock-climbing, snowboarding, spear-fishing, wakeboarding, and SCUBA diving.
BA (Hons) Air Transport Management with Commercial Pilot License, BEng Aerospace Engineering, PG Diploma Secondary Education (Maths and Science)
Originally from Wales, I trained to be a pilot originally – studying in the UK and America.
I teach Maths, Physics and Engineering. In 2024 we have introduced Evolocity – a connected programme where senior students study both tech and physics credits whilst carrying out hands-on learning to build a motorised vehicle. I love that at Horizon we combine year groups and subjects so that the learning the students do is connected to real life rather than siloed
I love football. I play football for Warkworth Football Club and help Warkworth fun football league, where I am currently coaching my sons team 'Arsenal'.
BA, BTchg (Secondary) Dip Christian Leadership
I am a rural girl at heart. Being brought up on a farm in Northland meant I learnt the value of hard work and team work. I love all things nature and love adventures - especially travel! I love spending time with my husband and two girls – camping, hiking, water activities!
As the Assistant Principal, I aim to see students and staff flourish and thrive at Horizon School. People matter to me and it's why I do what I do. I love the family vibe at Horizon and the way that people are able to belong, no matter their differences.
Performing Arts is a passion of mine. I write plays, perform, direct, and especially love musicals.
Bachelor of Education (Honours), Bachelor of Arts, Primary Teacher Diploma
I am originally from Durban, South Africa. I arrived in New Zealand in 1997. I am married to Odette and we have two sons, Byron (38) and Lance (35)
My primary role is to teach and support the students in front of me. However my pastoral role at Horizon School depends on me establishing good relationships with my colleagues, the students and their whanau. I enjoy the "challenges" of successful dispute resolution.
My work-life balance is maintained by my involvement in sport. I referee adult football on Saturdays, enjoy watching UFC and most importantly, spending time with my wife and sons.
Bachelor of Science (Biology), Bachelor of Arts (History) Grad Dip Teach
Originally from Snells Beach, I spent time in Wellington for University and South Auckland where I taught for 7 years. In 2017 I returned to Snells Beach with my husband and two daughters who go to Horizon.
I love teaching and can't imagine ever doing anything else. It is such a privilege to walk alongside these fabulous young people during their years at College. I love that at Horizon the students are known and that their interests and passions are encouraged.
Outside of school, I love to go camping or spend time at the beach with my whānau. I also enjoy baking, reading, David Attenborough docos, and learning photography.
Masters in Geography, Post-Graduate Certificate in Education.
I have recently returned to teaching having spent the last 20 years in church leadership, first as a Youth Pastor and most recently as Lead Pastor of a church my wife and I started in Bournemouth, on the south coast of England.
I’m really excited to be back teaching, and am enjoying trying to get the very best out of the Year 9 and 10 students in the College. I love to encourage and empower people in the hope that they can flourish and thrive. My wife is on staff here and our 3 children attend the school as well, so our whole family are at Horizon, and we all love the very special culture and community here.
Bachelor of Education (Hons)
I am from the UK and trained as an Art, Design and Technology teacher. I moved to New Zealand 18 years ago with my husband and daughter to teach Technology at Rangitoto College.
I joined Horizon college last year to teach Visual Art. I am delighted to be teaching in my passion subject again and feel that I have 'come home'. I love working with Horizon students as they are eager to practise their God-given skills of creativity with genuine integrity.
In my spare time I love to create in a variety of media. I'm currently hooked on crotchet and harakeke has woven its way into my life!
PGCE Secondary Education, Ba HONS Design Technology for the Fashion Industry from the London College of Fashion
I'm originally from the UK. I came to New Zealand with my husband 18 years ago to teach at Mahurangi College. After some years raising a family, then working as a magazine editor I decided it was time to return to teaching.
I love thinking up new and exciting ways for students to experiment and learn. I find the school very caring and the students have a great sense of humour with a willingness to try new things.
Dog walking, shopping, watching movies, eating and playing cards with my family – that would be my ideal day!
Bachelor of Education
Originally from Scotland, I had the luck to meet and marry a young man from New Zealand while I was travelling. We have two boys who went to school locally but have since flown the nest.
I love the variety of my role in looking for ways to support students across years 0-13. There is no one-size-fits all, so I am on a continuous quest to up-skill, to understand and discover the best way forward for individuals.
Outside of school I enjoy spending time with family and friends. If the weather is right, you can find me either on or in the sea, or in the bush getting amongst nature.
Diploma in teaching, certificate in life coaching
My family moved to Snells Beach 23 years ago to start up an alternative education school. I love what the smaller community vibe brings, meeting new people and keeping active with my family.
The combination of teaching and life coaching led me to being a Wellbeing Coach at Horizon 2 days a week. I believe students need a safe place where they feel they belong and their strengths are celebrated.
I like nothing better than to connect with friends and family and enjoying what our community has to offer. One of my greatest achievements was walking Base Camp a few years ago.
I am married, and a mother of four sons. My family and I relocated from South Africa in January of 2018.
I am a teacher's aide, and I thoroughly enjoy assisting children who require additional support. It brings me great joy to witness their progress and development.
I am a person who prefers the comforts of home. I find great pleasure in reading and crocheting. Additionally, I truly value the infrequent chances to engage in social interactions with my friends. I cherish the moments spent with my family, whether it be on the farm or embarking on exciting adventures.
Board of Trustees
Master's degree, Business Administration and Management, General
My background includes broad experience in social science research and issue based analysis, a Master’s degree in Cross-Cultural management and extensive travel experience. Delving into social and economic issues and the underlying causes is a passion of mine. I have proven analytical ability, having planned, written and published large scale research reports.
Prior to my role at Horizon I was the Head of Senior School at KingsWay School in Red Beach. My experience, both as a researcher in a policy think tank and more recently as an educator, have allowed me to hone my communication skills, ability to build relationships across diverse groups and team related skills.
As a marketing research consultant, Hana loves conversing with people and understanding what and how people think. Having lived, studied and worked in a few different countries, Hana embraces cultural diversity and offers a global perspective.
2 of her children currently go to Horizon and 1 goes to Kingsway Pre-school next door. She feels blessed to be part of a warm, supportive and dedicated community here at Horizon School.
Bachelor of Science (Biology), Bachelor of Arts (History) Grad Dip Teach
Originally from Snells Beach, I spent time in Wellington for University and South Auckland where I taught for 7 years. In 2017 I returned to Snells Beach with my husband and two daughters who go to Horizon.
I love teaching and can't imagine ever doing anything else. It is such a privilege to walk alongside these fabulous young people during their years at College. I love that at Horizon the students are known and that their interests and passions are encouraged.
Outside of school, I love to go camping or spend time at the beach with my whānau. I also enjoy baking, reading, David Attenborough docos, and learning photography.