The following have joined our staff this year.

JO WEST 

Head of Department - English

Having previously taught in Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, I joined OAS this year and have found it to be the most wonderful and rewarding experience.

You hit the ground running at Oxford and there’s not a dull moment in sight. This is one of the things I absolutely love about teaching here. The place is a hive of activity with students at its centre. I said it at the beginning of the year, and I still stand by it today – a genuine sense of community exists at OAS. Relationships and learning are weaved into everything that happens here, and this is evident across all levels of the school. The students really know each other and they know their teachers. This is reciprocated through teachers knowing and understanding their learners. Such connections are what truly make this a special place to work in.

I also think it’s pretty special to be learning whilst being surrounded by beautiful country scenery, hills and mountains (especially the snow-capped mountains in the winter!). OAS is a wonderful environment filled with much potential – quite simply, it’s a great place to be! 

EMMA DON 

Head of Department
- Outdoor Pursuits, Physical Education and Health

I came from Riccarton High School. What I love about Oxford, our school - Beautiful setting with the mountains close by, the spacious grounds and country vibe, clean air and friendly, welcoming people

I love spending time with my young family, in the outdoors, working on our lifestyle block, sport especially touch, rugby, swimming, surfing and motor sport, cooking, baking and coffee! 

MEAGAN LOWEN

Term 1 - Outdoor Pursuits, Physical Education, Health,
Social Studies

I was appointed as the OPL Teacher (Outdoors Pursuits and Leadership) for the first term of the year.

Prior to coming to Oxford, I taught at Marlborough.

What I love about Oxford is the small community which means you get to know students and their families well and therefore understanding the student's needs is improved.

My favourite hobby is being at the beach, spending time with my wee family and anything outdoors!

I have finished the last term as the Year 7 & 8 Homeroom teacher.

JUSTIN BASEVI

Mathematics Teacher

I have a passion for Mathematics and enjoy teaching and helping students meet their potential in this subject. I moved with my family, and many animals, into View Hill a few years ago and we have enjoyed getting to know the area and its people. 

KATIE LEGG  (commencement Term 3)

Agriculture and Science Teacher
International Dean

I came from Lincoln High School, where I taught for ten years.

I enjoy the sense of community at Oxford Area School, the size of the school and getting to know many of the students.

My interests are animals, spending time with the dogs and family, camping and jet boating. 

SUSAN KEELING

Year 3-8 Technology and Contributing Schools

Sue joins us from Mackenzie College.  Her interests are animals, especially horses.  Favourite place in NZ is the Coromandel.

LYNLEY McDOUGAL

International Accommodation Coordinator and Administrator

Supporting Charlotte Davis and Katie Legg with International Students and home stays

My background is in community and business development, tourism, events management, the arts, education, employment and training. I have always enjoyed helping tourists and telling them about New Zealand and I hope to use my community and business experience to provide support for home stay families and our international students to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.
Previously I was Business Centre Manager at Enterprise North Canterbury and Kaiapoi i-SITE Information Officer, Visitor Services and Facility Manager at Christchurch Art Gallery, Youth Employment Manager at Canterbury Development Corporation.Volunteer and on the Board of Trustees at the Oxford Art Gallery.

MIKE MULLIS

Teacher Aide - Years 3 & 4 and Years 7 & 8

Mike has, since 1999, worked predominately in the Telecommunications and Satellite industry much of which involved extensive work in third world countries in developing and empowering young people in technology.

He is passionate about education and the value that having positive adult role models in the school has on our tamariki.

In addition to working as a Teacher Aide, Mike is also an Ambulance Officer for St John in the Oxford and wider community.

RACHEL EIFFE

Teacher Aide 

I was born Perth, Western Australia and my family and I have moved from Perth to Oxford.  We are gradually adjusting to life in NZ!

I enjoy my job as Teacher Aide and especially working alongside students with learning needs. 

RACHEL KRAUSE

Teacher Aide