NETTY HINE – Learning Support

I started teaching at Mapua School in May 2010, it’s gone so quickly!

I was born and went to school in Coventry, UK. I left after I’d completed my education and moved to Berkshire for 9 years then to London. We moved here to Nelson in 2006.

Music is a big thing for my family so it can get quite noisy in our house! I also like to spend time outdoors walking or just having fun with my children.

What are your personal dislikes? – Hmmm, this one’s tough but I think I’d have to say rudeness, please and thank-you makes such a big difference.

I have two children with my partner Rik. Lily is studying in Wellington and Charlie is at Nayland College. 

What do you like about teaching at Mapua? – It would have to be the awesome attitude of the children, they make coming to work a joy.

LEITH BRUNING – Learning Support Coordinator

I’m employed as a Learning Support Coordinator by the Motueka Kahui Ako. I will be working across a number of schools but am lucky enough to be based at Mapua School. It has been fantastic getting to know the staff and students - what an awesome school.

Prior to my current role I have been deputy principal at a couple of schools on the Waimea Plains and taught at schools in Nelson.

I live in Richmond with my wife and two sons who attend Richmond Primary School. Sport is a major part of our family life and I enjoy helping coach the numerous sports that my boys have a go at. While I enjoy all sports and currently spend too much time playing golf! 

DIANE TAYLOR – Teacher Aide

I started working at Mapua School in 2010 as a Teacher Aide, helping to transition children from Pre-School to Primary School.

I’m originally from the UK and moved to beautiful New Zealand with my family 12 years ago.

In my spare time I like transporting my children to which ever activity they are participating in, walking the dogs, horse riding, cooking and gardening.

I dislike swing bridges, marshmallows and mangos.

I love living and working in Mapua, it is a great place to be.

NYSSA ARCHIBALD – Teacher Aide

I am employed work with an individual student in the junior school. I live in Mahana with my partner and twin daughters. We have a cat and a pet lamb.

Prior to this job, I was a registered nurse at Nelson Hospital. I was excited to find a job where I could be involved in health care, whilst working within the Mapua community. I love sport and spend many afternoons being involved in my children's sporting activities. My weekends are often spent discovering tracks to bike ride with the kids, relaxing at the beach and generally just enjoying time outdoors.

CLIVE DONNISON – Executive Caretaker

I started working at Mapua School in December 2014.

I grew up on the Wirral Peninsular (a slice of heaven between Liverpool and Wales) in England, left home at 16 and ran away to sea!! Six years later I returned and moved to Sheffield and studied for a physics degree then a teaching degree. Smelled the coffee in 2010 and moved to Mapua.

I love spending my spare time with my family.

What do you like about working at Mapua?

The students are so energetic and have such a zest for life it’s infectious.

What do you like about living in this area of the country? – The sense of community.