Welcoming all new starters.

MARCO GUGLIETTA (PLACEMENT) 

Hi all, My name is Marco Guglietta. Some of you may remember me as a MAC old boy, graduating in the class of 2014. Since leaving MAC, I’ve been down in Dunedin where I spent three years completing a Bachelor of Applied Science, specialising in Sports Science where I found a real passion for sports analysis and biomechanics. I was given some fantastic opportunities whilst in the programme, getting the opportunity to work with Otago Rugby and Southern United, however I never felt like I was quite doing enough to help those in need. 

After graduating in 2017, I had a year of ‘soul searching’ as such and found that in the form of working at the famous Emerson’s Brewery still in Dunedin, where I was a tour guide and beer enthusiast behind the bar. Being around a variety of people from all over the world each and every day, I found a real passion for relating to others and further educating them on their passion which has led me to a profession that I’m so excited to enter. 

I’m currently based in Christchurch where I am studying a one-year post-graduate diploma in Teaching and Learning majoring in Physical Education, minoring in Health Education and loving each and every moment. 

Coming back to Mt Aspiring College felt comforting, due to coming back to a familiar environment, however the school has grown significantly since I was a part of a smaller 800 student body. 

Throughout my time at this fantastic school, I’ve been able to not only learn from some great teachers but also learn a lot about myself and try different approaches to teaching that suit me. 

I look forward to seeing some new and familiar faces around the school in my remaining four weeks of placement!

MEAGAN JEFFREY (PLACEMENT) 

Kia Ora my name is Meagan Jeffrey, I am a PE and Health student teacher from the University of Canterbury. 

I graduated from UC in 2018 with a Bachelor of Sports Coaching, Majoring in Strength and Conditioning and Nutrition. I have been lucky enough to be placed at MAC for my final teaching placement and am loving my experience so far. 

I am a passionate netballer and enjoy surfing and spending time in the water during the summer. I am currently completing my Level 1 Strength and Conditioning Accreditation which I am very excited about. 

The past few weekends here I have been enjoying exploring what Wanaka has to offer. I am looking forward to heading up the mountain skiing (and maybe learning to snowboard) and walking Mt Roy and Isthmus while I’m here. 

Wanaka is a magical place with some awesome people and I have felt extremely welcome in my first few weeks here. I am loving teaching at MAC and the staff and students have made it more fun than I could have imagined. I am looking forward to my next 4 weeks and am excited to see what more Wanaka has to offer!

EILEEN JANSEN (PLACEMENT)

Hi my name is Eileen Jansen and I am one of five children. I was born and raised in Dunedin.

After completing school at Kavanagh College I attended the University of Otago and completed a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition. I am currently completing my Masters of Teaching and Learning at the University of Otago as well.

I am on a seven week block at MAC and am currently working with Food and Nutrition classes, and Science and Biology classes. I am really into sport and growing up I was predominantly involved in basketball, netball, waterpolo and swimming.  I'm a bit of a rugby fan as well and support Otago and the Highlanders!

ELLIE BASTERFIELD (NEWEST STAFF MEMBER) 

Ellie Basterfield is our Assistant Hostel Manager and is the main hostel supervisor over the weekends. 

Ellie is originally from Oxford, England and is trained as a Design and Technology teacher. As well as Jenny and her family, Ellie also lives onsite where she loves upcycling old furniture. With her spare time she enjoys travelling, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing and snowboarding.