Staff

Team Leader - Room 19

Bailey Fraser

Welcome to Room 19! This is going to be our best year yet!

In our class, you can expect nothing but positivity and support from the students who were in my class last year. They have been around the block with me already and will be able to show you all the ropes.

As you will soon realise, our class is full of different personalities, each with something special to bring to the table. We always do our best and persevere when it’s challenging.

As for a bit more about me, I have been teaching for a few years now. Initially, I taught in Auckland. Moving to Hamilton in 2020 was the best decision and I haven’t looked back since! I love music and dancing. My favourite group is BTS and I am a big K-pop nerd! I also speak French and coordinate the Berkley trip to New Caledonia.

I have a pet dog, her name is Pippin and she is my best friend! She is a poodle x lowchen; small, brown, fluffy, and very sassy. You will hear many stories about her antics.

This year, we are in ARANUI, which means the ‘great pathway.’ Mr Meiklejohn, Mrs Gardner, Mr Coombridge, Ms Polaczuk, Mrs Purcell, Miss Wilkinson and I will be working hard to ensure you have the most successful year possible and achieve to the best of your ability.

I can’t wait to get to know you all!

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Teacher - Room 23

Ethan Coombridge

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Teacher - Room 22

Garry Meiklejohn

Kia ora,

Garry Meiklejohn is my name and I have been lucky enough to work at Berkley for the past seven years. I must admit that in my earlier years I did not see myself where I am now. Traveling around the world led me to teaching and the current position I enjoy at Berkley.

After gaining my undergraduate degree through Otago University (a long time ago), I packed my bags and left on my big OE. However, choosing to stop off in Japan on my way to Europe was my biggest mistake; I ended up meeting my wife, having a child, and spending the next seventeen years of my life immersing myself with Japanese culture. It was during my time in Japan that I developed my love for teaching.

At Berkley, I manage the water polo team, oversee the EOTC education programme on Great Barrier Island and teach Japanese as part of the foreign language curriculum we have at Berkley. I do believe in Berkley’s motto of taking up the challenge, so in order to model this to my children I am currently completing a Masters of Education Degree, which I do online.

I believe the programmes we have on offer at Berkley go a long way in developing truly holistic learners, prepared for an ever-changing world. The positive learning environment at Berkley provides students endless opportunities to extend themselves on their lifelong learning journeys. Being involved in that journey motivates me to provide quality learning experiences for my students and keeps me passionate about teaching.

Oh, and I enjoy the occasional game of golf. So, if anyone needs to make a four, drop me a line ;- ).

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Teacher - Room 22

Sarah Gardner

Kia ora and welcome!

My name is Sarah Gardner, I am one of the teachers you’ll be working with this year at Berkley Normal Middle School, and I am so excited to be part of your learning journey. Whakawhanaungatanga – building strong relationships – is really important to me, so I’d love to share a little bit about myself with you and your whānau. I was born and raised right here in Hamilton and now live here with my husband Nick, our son Sebastian, our daughter Amelie, and our very energetic dog, Louie. I studied to become a teacher at the University of Waikato, where I also completed my Honours in Education. I am currently working towards my Masters, as I love learning just as much as I love teaching. After finishing my teacher training, my husband and I packed our bags and moved to Bristol in the United Kingdom, where we both taught for three years. It was an amazing experience and helped shape the teacher I am today.

This year marks my tenth year teaching at Berkley Normal Middle School and my second year as a STOS (Specialist Teacher Outreach Service) teacher. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to be the Team Leader of both the Mahi Tahi and Tainui teams. In 2026, I am really looking forward to sharing a class with Mr Meiklejohn and working alongside the amazing Aranui teachers whilst also continuing to work with smaller groups in my STOS teacher role.

One of my favourite things about being a teacher is seeing students learn something new and feel proud of themselves. Every student brings something unique to our learning space, and I truly believe that together we can create a classroom where everyone feels safe, valued, and excited to learn. I can’t wait to see you grow into confident, curious, and amazing young people.

Outside of school, I love travelling and have been lucky to explore many parts of the world. Some of my favourite places include France (where I enjoyed using a bit of my French), Italy (for the incredible food), China (for how different it is from New Zealand), and South America (for its rich culture). Later this year, I’m excited to be travelling to South Korea and Japan. When I’m not travelling or teaching, you’ll find me reading, listening to music, dancing, heading to the beach with my family, drinking coffee with friends or eating anything chocolate.

I’m really looking forward to getting to know you and your whānau and to sharing a fun,
supportive, and inspiring year of learning together.

Nau mai, haere mai!

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Teacher - Room 21

Morgan Purcell

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Teacher - Room 21

Ruth Polaczuk

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Teacher - Room 20

Baylee Wilkinson

Kia ora! 

My name is Miss Wilkinson, and I am the classroom teacher in Room 20 (Aranui). I am so excited to be your teacher this year and can't wait to get to know each of you. I hope you're ready for an exciting year filled with learning, new challenges, lots of fun, and plenty of memorable moments!

I was born in Christchurch and moved to Auckland in 2011 after the Christchurch earthquakes. I spent most of my childhood there before moving to Hamilton in 2023 to begin my studies to become a primary school teacher. Teaching has always been something I have been passionate about, and I feel incredibly lucky to be doing what I love.

Outside of school, I absolutely love animals! I grew up on a farm where I spent lots of time caring for animals and riding horses. Recently, I welcomed my very first pet of my own—a playful little kitten named Kora. She is full of energy, loves to play, and always keeps me smiling!

I am looking forward to an amazing year in Room 20, where we will learn, grow, support one another, and create lots of great memories together. I can't wait to meet all of our students and whānau and see what this year brings!

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Team Leader - Room 2

Jason Hanson

Kia Ora,

I was born and raised in Rotorua, not too far from here, before moving to Hamilton to complete my degree at the University of Waikato. I discovered my true passion for teaching while working at a holiday programme with students aged 5 to 13. Supporting children across this age group convinced me that education was the right path for me.

I love stepping out of my comfort zone and trying new things, a mindset I encourage in all my students! Outside the classroom, most of my hobbies revolve around sports. You will quickly learn that my absolute favourite sport is basketball, and it will not take long to see just how much I love the game.

At school, I am proud to be the Team Leader for Kia Kaha, as well as the Teacher in Charge of Sports Camp and Basketball. I am passionate about creating a positive environment where students feel supported to take on new challenges, aim high, and achieve their full potential, all while having fun along the way.

We have an exciting year ahead with plenty of learning, growth, and team spirit, and I cannot wait to make the most of our time together!

If you ever have any questions or would like to get in touch, please feel free to reach out via my email.

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Teacher - Room 12

Estelle Pietersen

My name is Estelle Pietersen and I am delighted to be joining the Berkley whaanau and Kia Kaha team this year. 2026 marks my 14th year in the teaching profession.

I was born and raised in South-Africa. I moved to New Zealand when I was 11 years old and instantly fell in love with the country and the culture. I spent the next few years in Gisborne before moving to the Waikato to study teaching.

I met my husband Haydon a few years after I graduated from University. We live in Huntly and we have three beautiful kids: Cruz (14), Charlie (6) and Lily (almost 4).  As you can imagine, 3 kids keep us pretty busy but we wouldn't change it for the world. On the weekends you can find us at the beach, watching or playing football, working on the house or in the garden, or exploring the beauty that is New Zealand.

Teaching has always been my dream career.As a classroom teacher it is my hope that all my students feel a sense of belonging, feel valued and feel respected. Having the opportunity to foster a love of learning, encouraging students to be the best they can be, and guiding our future leaders along their journey through life is incredibly rewarding to me. 

I believe a strength I bring to the classroom is building positive relationships with my students and working with them to develop the skills they need to make good choices and meet their potential.As JK Rowling once said:"We don't need magic to change the world. We carry all the power we need inside ourselves already. We have the power to imagine better.”

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Teacher - Room 13

Marcel Bormans

Hi. My name is Marcel Bormans. 

I was born and lived for 19 years in Auckland attending Macleans College. My father is Dutch while my mother's family is Bohemian, being one of the founding families of Puhoi, north of Auckland, back in 1863.

I am married to Steph, my beautiful wife. Steph is a Real Estate salesperson with Harcourts. Together we have 5 amazing children, a dog and a cat.
Our eldest son, Nathaniel (23), is currently on his OE, living and working in Bath, England, with his partner, Joe. Tyler is (20) and is living at home while he and his girlfriend, Liv, complete their final year of study for quantity surveying. Luke is 18 and studying to become a licensed Real Estate salesperson. He will join Steph as part of Team Bormans. Lisa (17) is in Y13 at Hillcrest High School, while Michelle, our youngest at 14, is in Y9 at Hillcrest High School. Michelle is an ex-student of Berkley. Donny (10-12), our cat, is a manx, while Ash (7), our dog, is a Bichon Shih Tzu.

After living in various countries overseas for 7.5 years and gaining a degree in Philosophy, I returned to NZ where I gained my Primary Teaching degree. I began teaching in Te Awamutu in 2004, moved on to Dargaville in 2007 before coming to Hamilton and teaching at St John's College in 2012. At St John's I was a teacher of Religious Education and I held the position of Director of Catholic Character for 5 years. I then took a years break in 2024, becoming a licensed Real Estate salesperson and working with Steph before returning to my passion, teaching, here at Berkley.

My life and professional experience have enabled me to become well-rounded as a teacher. I love to coax students to work to the best of their ability, to believe in themselves, to know that - with hard work and a constant effort - they can achieve in ways and to a level that they probably never thought that they could. I guess one of my strongest virtues in the classroom is patience and being non-judgmental. For me, what happened yesterday stays there and today is a new day with new opportunities. 

My classroom vision is that the students I teach learn to take ownership of and responsibility for everything that they think, say and do. The training wheels need to come off, and independence needs to set in, and that is what I am passionate about helping them do.

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Teacher - Room 14

Sengodi Madhavan

Kia ora, I'm Sengodi. 

I am originally from India and have been living in New Zealand for over 17 years. I hold a Master’s degree in Microbiology and previously worked in the research field at Lincoln University, specialising in animal science and endocrinology. It was during my time in research that my passion for teaching began to blossom, taking root and growing stronger each day. I later pursued teacher education at the University of Waikato in 2020. From trading test tubes for textbooks, I started as a relief teacher at Berkley in 2021 and have been teaching full-time since 2022.

What guides my teaching in Room 14 (and what this means for your child):

1. Every student in my class is valued equally.
2. I strongly believe in the science of teaching and learning and take students’ developmental stages seriously. At this age, the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex responsible for reasoning and impulse control, is still developing, so students are often guided more by emotion than logic. I do not see students as “good” or “bad,” but as learners who are developing emotional/social regulation at different rates. For this reason, my primary focus at the start of the year is building strong, positive relationships so students feel safe, supported, and confident coming to school. If you have an emotionally upset child any day, please feel free to contact me — no concern is too small or too complex.
3. My goal is to help students grow into individuals who are ready to face challenges at high school and beyond. I want them to develop a strong sense of identity grounded in values, alongside strategies that help them navigate challenges in learning and in life.
4. Academically, I believe that knowledge alone is an accumulation of facts, while wisdom is gained from making connections between them. In Room 14, we integrate learning across areas such as literacy, mathematics, social sciences, and te reo Māori, creating what I often describe as a “web of knowledge.” We look for patterns, connections, and moments of curiosity and awe. At this stage, the learning process itself is more important than grades, and my aim is to make that process meaningful, enjoyable, and intrinsically motivating.

Who am I outside the classroom? 
On a personal note, I live in Hillcrest with my husband and our two children, along with our dog, chickens, ducks, and fish. As a family, we enjoy hatching birds together - “Some of the happiest moments come from the smallest, newest beginnings,” a joy I love to share with my students. I have brought hatched birds to school before, and I may do the same this year so students can observe and spend time with them. I also enjoy listening to podcasts, playing board and card games with my family, and love solving jigsaw puzzles.

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Teacher - Room 1

Shaun Leath

Kia ora

Ko Taranaki te maunga
Ko Waiwhakaiho te awa
Ko Leath tōku whānau
Ko Shaun tōku ingoa

Kia ora! I’m Mr Leath, and I’m a Classroom Teacher here at Berkley.

Originally from Taranaki, sport has always been a massive part of my life. Whether it’s playing, coaching, or watching from the sidelines, I’m always involved, with rugby holding the top spot for me. Having grown up in the heart of Taranaki rugby culture, Saturdays were always about lace-up boots, team huddles, and giving every game everything you’ve got. That deep connection to rugby taught me early on about resilience, accountability, team spirit, and backing your mates through the tough moments, which heavily shapes how I run my classroom today.

What I love most about working at Berkley is the sheer amount of opportunity students have to grow. It’s such a vibrant place to be, and I thrive on creating a positive classroom where every single student gets an equal, fair opportunity to succeed, step up, and push past their comfort zone.

I consider it a real privilege to help students discover their strengths, whether that’s in the classroom or trying something completely new.

Please feel free to reach out via my email at any time.

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Team Leader - Room 26

Barb Shepp

Hi everyone, and a warm welcome to you all for your 2026 year at Berkley. My name is Ms Shepp and I am very excited to be your new classroom teacher for this year. I would also like to welcome you to the Mahi Tahi team. As the new Team Leader, I am looking forward to collaborating with the other Mahi Tahi classes and bonding through some fun events, activities and ‘teaming’ together.

I grew up on a farm in Waitoa and attended Waitoa Primary school and then Te Aroha College. As a little girl, I had always dreamed of being a teacher and studied for my teaching degree at Waikato University. I taught in Hamilton before moving to Australia for 11 years and had 2 children: Anton and Shontelle (Shonny).  My family also includes a dog called ‘Roxy’ and a cat called ‘Missy’.

As I was growing up, I enjoyed playing sports. I played a variety of sports socially but I became competitive at table tennis. I represented NZ for several years and thoroughly enjoyed the travelling opportunities associated with it. After a long break I decided to start playing again and I am looking forward to some upcoming tournaments and trainings this year too. Travelling for sport has always been a valuable experience for me. I get to see new places, meet new people and play a sport that I love.

In my spare time, I also enjoy catching up with friends and family for coffee, movies and going to restaurants. Oh, and the beach! I love it when summer arrives and I can walk along the hot sandy beach, dipping my toes in the cool, refreshing waves. NZ has stunning beaches and I always feel grateful that we live within an easy drive to a beach nearby. You will often find me in Whangamata in summer with my family, soaking up the sun and appreciating the relaxing Whanga town vibes there.

My philosophy of learning motivates me to be the best teacher that I can for my students, their whanau and the school. It is as follows:

“I believe that every student is unique and has their own gifts and talents to bring to our classroom. I aim to find ways to connect with every student, create a safe environment, offer a positive attitude with a variety of learning experiences and challenge each student to their fullest potential.”

There are a lot of exciting events happening this year and I am looking forward to sharing these with you and motivating you to ‘take up the challenge’.

Please feel free to contact me anytime if you have any queries.

Barb Shepp

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Teacher - Room 25

Rachel Keightley

Kia ora! My name is Rachel Keightley and I’m delighted to be teaching Room 25.
I am passionate about creating a classroom where students feel safe and supported while also being challenged to become curious, confident learners. My goal is for every student to take pride in their learning, develop resilience, and grow into kind, capable young people. I believe learning should be engaging and purposeful, with plenty of opportunities for curiosity, collaboration, and laughter along the way.

A little about me…

I was born and raised in Hamilton, and Berkley has been part of my family's story for many years. I have four sons, all former Berkley students. My eldest is a high school English teacher in Wellington, two are studying and playing NCAA Division 1 water polo in the United States, and my youngest is finishing his final year at Hamilton Boys' High School while pursuing his own water polo and study dreams. We also have a mischievous cat called Darwin, who firmly believes he runs the household!

Before becoming a teacher, I worked as a lawyer for more than 20 years. Although it was a big career change, it is one I have never regretted. Teaching Year 7 and 8 students is an absolute privilege, and I genuinely love helping young people discover their strengths, build confidence, and achieve more than they thought possible.

Outside the classroom, you'll often find me watching water polo (sometimes at very strange hours due to time differences!), attempting to improve my French, baking far more than my family needs, or planning our next travel adventure.

I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the Berkley community and look forward to getting to know the students and whānau of Room 25. Together, I hope we'll make this a year filled with learning, laughter, and lasting memories.

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Teacher - Room 27

Timote Naulivou

Kia ora Room 27 Students and Parents/Caregivers

Welcome to Room 27 and Team Mahi Tahi! I am super excited to meet you all and begin our journey as a class.

I am Matua Timote Naulivou, but I am called Matua Mote in the classroom. An interesting fact about me is that I was a student at Berkley a long time ago. I am of Tongan and Pākehā descent.  My wife Shanice and I are massive fans of board games; so much so that our board game cupboard is overflowing!

In education, I am really passionate about our holistic growth and learning. This year at Berkley is packed with a variety of learning experiences that will help us grow our heads, our hands and our hearts. In Term 1 we haveCamp Ngatuhoa, giving us awesome out-of-class learning opportunities. As we enter the year with the "taking up the challenge" mentality, we will get many opportunities to experience new things and grow.

As a class, we are a team. So you can expect to be shown support and care, as you also show support and care to your classmates.

Looking forward to getting to know you all, 

Matua Mote

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Teacher - Room 28

Leonie Belk

Hi there, I’m Ms Belk, and I joined the Berkley team in 2024.

Let me tell you a little about myself. I am a country girl at heart, growing up on hill country farms on the East Coast. I absolutely love the outdoors and have a deep affinity for animals - these passions are shared with my seventeen-year-old daughter. Before studying to become a teacher, I travelled New Zealand riding horses competing in the equestrian discipline of show jumping. It was coaching in this sport that developed my passion and interest in teaching.

I love sport and competition. When I was younger, I represented NZ in netball as part of the NZ Young International Team. I now enjoy coaching - I love to see people work hard towards achieving their goals.

In the classroom, I challenge my students to be the best they can be in all areas of their schooling, and hope that transfers into all facets of their lives. Quality values and high expectations are a big part of the culture in my classroom, along with recognising the uniqueness that each individual brings to add to that. I am truely excited about the year ahead in Mahi Tahi.

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Teacher - Room 29

Zane Hartley

Ko Kahuranaki te maunga

Ko Ngaruroro te awa

Ko Takitimu te waka

Ko Tanenuiarangi te whare

Ko Kohupatiki te marae

Ko Ngati Kahungunu te iwi

Ko Zane Hartley toku ingoa

Kia Ora and welcome to Room 29 for 2026. Moving from a small little town called Waipukurau in Hawkes Bay to the ‘city lights’ of Hamilton was a daunting task for a young boy. However, that move many moons ago has paved the way for my journey so far.....

As a keen sportsperson, foodie and traveller, I got to experience all three when playing cricket in a small, cold, rugged English town in 2014.  I will never forget the frosty summer mornings, freshly baked pasties and old castle-like buildings. When I returned to NZ, I worked as a PE teacher and tennis coach - working with students of all levels and ages. I saw so much potential and growth in adolescent students that I wanted the challenge of teaching them! 

Berkley is a special place, with many opportunities for you to take on. I encourage you to 'give it a go' and 'be better than before' as you embark on one of the most exciting times of your school life.

Zane Hartley

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Team Leader - Room 17

Hannah Macaulay

Kia ora,

My name is Mrs Macaulay and I am the teacher in Room 17 and Team Leader of Tainui team. I am currently in my sixth year of teaching at Berkley and enjoying every moment. I am so excited to be your teacher this year!

This year will be full of so many new and fun learning opportunities. Make sure that you are ready to fully immerse yourself into everything Berkley has to offer!

I have lived in the Waikato for my whole life. I attended Tamahere Model Country School, Berkley Normal Middle School (as a student!) and Hillcrest High School. There are a number of teachers all throughout my extended family, both in New Zealand and overseas and this was where my passion developed. I really enjoy creating positive relationships with all learners and watching them progress amongst all areas of school life.

Growing up I have really enjoyed being involved in netball and over the years have coached a number of netball teams. At Berkley there is a huge variety of extra curricular activities which students can participate in and this is something that I admire. As a teacher at Berkley I make an effort to support my students to give everything a go and participate where possible.

I am really looking forward to getting to know each and every one of you - I know this will be a great year in Room 17!

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Teacher - Room 15

Tom Fitisemanu

Kia ora kouto. Welcome to Room 15. I’m Mr. Fitsy.

This is my fifth year of teaching and my third year at Berkley. I hope you are as excited as I am to meet the Tainui team for 2026. It’s going to be an awesome year.

Before I was a teacher, I taught guitar (and sold pants, shoes, fishing equipment, seafood and washed machines). Music has always been a passion of mine and something I am so grateful to share with my students. This combined with my love of sharing knowledge led me to teach.

I can’t think of a better job than mine. I look forward to catching up with my students every morning. I love having a laugh and my students know our class motto, we ‘work hard so we can play hard.’ We definitely put the hard mahi in in our space, but it’s important to me that school is also super fun.

In terms of hobbies… Yes.

Music. I play guitar, sing and produce music. Putting a record on and my phone away is my favourite way to relax at the end of a long day. I’ve been to more concerts and gigs than I can count.

Being in the outdoors is something else I am very passionate about. There is nowhere I would rather be than fishing in my favourite, secret spot, with my dad. Whether it's going for a hike, a kayak, a bash in the boat, a bike mission, or being in the garden, it’s all fun to me.

Throughout the winter, when the weather puts a halt on being outside, I’ll be in the garage. There's always a passion project on the go.

I teach because I love being a part of your learning journey. It means a lot to me to be able to support you throughout this time. This year is going to be so much fun… I hope you have had a nice holiday, because we have work to do. 

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Teacher - Room 16

Caleb Parsons

Kia ora, I'm Caleb.

Outside of school, I enjoy keeping active and spending time outdoors, whether that's exploring somewhere new or taking on a challenge. I've always had a keen interest in science and physics, and I love learning about how things work. That curiosity often finds its way into the classroom, where I enjoy encouraging students to ask questions, think critically, and give new things a go.

One of the things I value most about Berkley is the way students, whānau, and staff connect and support one another. The relationships between students, whānau, and staff are what make this such a special place to work, and it's something I'm proud to be part of. I look forward to getting to know each of the students and their whānau and supporting them throughout the year.

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Teacher - Room 18

Glenda Knox

Welcome to Room 18 and Team Tainui!

When you walk into our classroom, you will experience a warm, supportive and family-like environment where students are friendly and feel safe to be their authentic selves.

We work hard and never settle for less than our best, understanding that our effort and mindset play an important role in our progress. We also recognise that the best learning happens when we feel happy, connected and enjoy what we do.

So, who is Ms Knox?

Born and bred in Rotorua, I ventured over to the mighty Waikato for work, experiencing a variety of roles before commencing my teaching career. I have three wonderful children: Jaimee (20), Kate (17) and Michael (16), and together we have been heavily involved in various schools, sports and community activities for the past two decades.

With a passion for racket sports - and as a ‘has-been’ squash player - I am now keen to play more pickleball and golf, my new favourites! You may also see me out and about with friends, taking a walk or at the local gym.

It’s incredibly rewarding working alongside and inspiring a diverse group of young people, who will each eventually become our future leaders. They each bring their own kete of knowledge, experiences and strengths to the table - along with their own challenges. I enjoy the relational side of teaching: really getting to know each and every student better, helping them discover more about themselves, overcome obstacles and create an environment that inspires both personal and academic growth.

I value strong connections between home and school and believe that by working together, we can best support your child to reach their full potential.

I am so excited for the year ahead and feel privileged to be part of your child’s journey.

Welcome to Team Tainui!

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Teacher - Room 24

Monique Fritz

Welcome to Room 24! I’m extremely excited to meet all of the new students and to see all of last year’s students. This year, we are part of the Tainiu team, and we have some wonderful teachers in Tainui. 

I think 2026 is going to be a fabulous year. There are so many things happening at Berkley that you have to look forward to, including but not limited to camp, book week (one of my personal favourites), swimming sports, and lots of other opportunities to challenge yourself.

A little bit about me: I was born and raised in South Africa, and I moved to New Zealand 9 years ago. I am bilingual; my home language is Afrikaans, and I love answering any questions about both South Africa and how to say different phrases in Afrikaans, so feel free to ask me anytime. I’m close to my family, so you will often hear stories about them and the funny things they said or memes they sent.

In my free time, you can find me with a latte in one hand and a book in the other. If I’m not reading, I’m spending time with family or friends, going for walks, attempting to knit, or playing Dungeons and Dragons with my friends. I have a passion for all things fantasy, sci-fi, and I am a little bit nerdy, so don’t be surprised if you hear a Harry Potter quote in the classroom now and again.

In terms of the classroom, my aim as your teacher is to create an environment where you feel safe to be who you are and to challenge yourself, try new things, and discover what you are capable of. I believe that every one of you has something special to offer, and I am overjoyed that I get to go on this journey with you to discover what that may be.

I’ll end this with one of my favourite quotes: “Have courage and be kind, where there is kindness there is goodness and where there is goodness there is magic.” - Cinderella.

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Team Leader - Room 11

Patrick Purcell

My name is Mr. Purcell and I am delighted to be Room 11's teacher for 2026. The purpose of this letter is to provide you with valuable information about myself, my goals for the year and finally the expectations I will have of you and your fellow classmates so that we can all have a fantastic year.

Having a new teacher can be daunting but here's a little bit about me to hopefully put your mind at ease. While football is my main passion, sport in general is a major part of my life - whether it be coaching, playing, or supporting. Aside from kicking a ball around or diving on the volleyball court, I've also been known to grab a pen and start some writing when the creative waves are flowing. At Berkley I'm in charge of football and volleyball, all while leading the mighty Te Aroha team!

This will be my eighth year teaching at Berkley and I am determined to make it the best one yet - but I'll need your help. We are a class filled with different personalities and strengths and we're all at different stages of learning - and that's great! What I expect, regardless of where you are at, is that you give everything your very best effort and that you never give up. Success and growth comes from learning from our mistakes.

I'm a huge believer in Berkley's motto of "Take Up the Challenge" and I'd love to see you embracing it as well - that's how you'll make the most of your time here. Make sure to get involved!

I hope you're as excited as I am. Let's make this year unforgettable!

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Teacher - Room 10

Eva Mitchell

Kia ora,

My name is Miss Mitchell and I am the teacher in Room 10. This is my first year at Berkley, and I am absolutely loving it so far! I feel incredibly lucky to be part of the Berkley community and am so excited to be your teacher this year. I look forward to building strong connections with you all and making this a positive and successful year in Room 10.

In our classroom, I am passionate about creating a positive learning environment where students feel safe when expressing themselves and ideas. I believe that every child can succeed when they feel supported and encouraged. My goal is to challenge students to grow, take risks in their learning, and reach their full potential, while also celebrating their progress along the way.

I encourage everyone to embrace the opportunities Berkley offers; whether that’s trying new things, getting involved or stepping outside of your comfort zone.

Outside of the classroom, I love being active and spending time outdoors. You’ll often find me playing or coaching netball here at Berkley. This year I have been lucky enough to coach the 7A netball team, and it has been such a rewarding experience watching the girls grow in confidence.

I can’t wait to meet you all!

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Teacher - Room 9

Laura Deegan

Kia ora,

My name is Ms Deegan and I am looking forward to a fantastic 2026.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, tending to my garden, and traveling in my caravan. I love challenging myself by learning new skills like playing the guitar, golf, and wake surfing, and I have a strong interest in history and environmental conservation.

I place a high value on overall health and wellbeing, believing that an active lifestyle supports physical, mental, and emotional strength. In the classroom, my priority is to foster an energetic, safe, and respectful space where every student feels confident to give things a go, support one another, and celebrate their unique learning journey.

I’m looking forward to the year ahead, taking on new challenges, and building a strong classroom community together.

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Teacher - Room 8

Philippa Burchett

Ko Rangitoto te maunga
Ko Waitemataa te moananui
Ko nga te pakeha te iwi
Ko Nga Hau e Wha te marae
Ko Tamahere toku kainga
Ko Carleen toku mama
Ko George toku papa
Ko Burchett te whaanau
Ko Philippa toku ingoa

My name is Philippa (Pip) Burchett and I am both an experienced and innovative teacher, having over 25 years experience ranging from New Entrants to Year 8. I have taught in both the Auckland and Waikato regions.

I have a very clear vision/belief about education and that is, ‘Learner at the Centre’. This informs everything I do in a classroom. I am a clear communicator and am very transparent in learning design, to ensure it meets ‘Learner at the Centre’. I will always encourage you to ask questions of me to fully understand your learning.

Recently I have swapped town life for rural riches. I now have 10 sheep and 5 cows. I am excited about having some room to grow and follow my dreams. I look forward to sharing my journey with you, especially when I get my highland cattle!

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Teacher - Room 7

Hermann Tuia-Thomsen

Talofa, Kia Ora and Welcome to Room 7. My name is Hermann Tuia-Thomsen and I have the pleasure of being your teacher in 2026.

This year I would like for you to Take Up The Challenge as we embark on our journey, both as individuals and valued Te Aroha Team members. I’m excited to see you learn, explore and challenge yourself to succeed. Nelson Mandela once said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” This reflects the many challenges we will face throughout the year, but as a team, we will always find a way to achieve the best we can.

I am a teacher with over 20 years’ experience, and it has been a privilege to see my students achieve their best.

I was born in Samoa and then-moved to New Zealand as an adolescent, where I completed my schooling pathway from Primary through to Tertiary.

I was fortunate to see New Zealand through Rugby League, and was later presented an opportunity to pursue this in Australia early in my teaching career. During this time, I undertook teaching roles in Queensland which I have relished doing for the past 15 years.

This is my fourth year back teaching in New Zealand and Berkley. 

In my spare time, I rally up my family for a day in the outdoors; this would consist of a lazy day at the beach with our gas cooker, frying sausages for a traditional kiwi snack. We enjoy tracking through bush walks, taking in the pristine beauty nature has to offer. I also enjoy playing a wide range of sports with my family, this keeps us connected and allows us to build lifelong memories.

My hobbies reflect my love for sports and the outdoors. They consist of coaching, playing and spectating across a range of sports. I believe playing sports is a great way to build solid team foundations, develop trust and positive relationships. I look forward to many opportunities with you throughout the year.

I am excited to take this journey with you. I look forward to working with you and your family in supporting your development this year.

Fa’afetai lava

Hermann Tuia-Thomsen

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