Posts in Student Support
Simon Bartlett

Bachelor of Teaching - Waikato University, Certificate of Business Studies

During my 20 years in education, I have worked as a classroom teacher in New Zealand and internationally. I have spent three years in a specialist role across five schools in South Auckland as a learning needs and behavioural teacher. In 2018 I was employed at a special needs school in the Waikato teaching students with a wide variety of special learning needs.

I believe that strong relationships and a holistic approach celebrating the individual characteristics of every learner are the foundation for our Horizon community to ensure every student feels successful and starts their personal journey to reaching their full potential. With my responsibility of differentiation school-wide I will be endeavouring to ensure every student has the support and inspiring environment to become a happy and successful learner. I also oversee the technology team, coding and robotics.

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June Port

Trained Teachers Certificate

It is my pleasure to fill the role of SENCO (Special Education Coordinator) at Horizon. What could be better than having a part in enabling learners to meet their potential?

After many years working in adult education and in various capacities with children I joined Horizon School as an office administrator. In the spirit of lifelong learning I went on to train as a Reading Recovery Teacher and then undertook training as a SENCO.

My time here is an example of our belief It is never too late to learn new things and to become more of what you were made to be.

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Gael Adamson

Bachelor of Education (Primary)

Originally from Scotland, I moved to New Zealand eighteen years ago with my husband and two children. I have fourteen years of classroom experience across all year levels. I am the Learning Support Coordinator working part time at Horizon School.

I love learning and enjoy finding new ways to excite students about their learning. I enjoy working with my colleagues for the best outcomes for students, being able to share our knowledge and work as a team. I am passionate about making a difference and supporting students to go beyond their expectations.

The staff at Horizon are dynamic, enthusiastic, passionate and best of all inclusive. I am so fortunate to feel welcomed and fully supported in my role.

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Michelle Diprose

Diploma in Primary Teaching, Certificate in Life Coaching

I moved into this community 18 years ago with my family to assist in running an Alternative Education program in the Rodney area.

With my primary school training and life coach training, I am now the wellness coach here at Horizon School part time. I strongly believe in the importance of creating a place of belonging for the students, where there’s a connection, safety and can be fully present, allowing them to be vulnerable to try things, be curious about the world around them and grow in confidence. I love seeing the students come alive and share with other students their talents and kindness.

At Horizon School the teachers care for the whole person, the Te Whare Tapa Wha, the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of students.

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Anne Cash

Masters in Paediatric Nursing

Originally a paediatric nurse, I have recently discovered teacher aiding and found that I love it! I really enjoy building relationships with students and working as part of a team with an awesome bunch of people. There is such satisfaction in seeing the kids thrive.

I feel very lucky to be working at Horizon. There is an incredible feeling of love and support at the school. It really is a very special place.

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Abigail Sanford

Bachelor of Arts (Majoring in Educational Psychology and minoring in Developmental Studies), (currently completing Masters in Ed. Dev. Psychology

Kia Ora! Ko Abi Toku ingoa. I was born and raised in New Zealand and I am pursuing my dream of becoming an Educational Psychologist.

I love championing young people and I’ve found my sweet spot for the time being, as a teacher aide at Horizon School where my role consists of supporting students with diverse learning needs and helping students to create meaningful connections within their learning and in relationships with others.

The environment at Horizon is inclusive, supportive and empathetic towards learners from all different walks of life and I feel truly lucky to be able to participate in such a rich learning environment. How wonderful it is that we all get to learn from each other!

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