Introducing Irja

Kia ora

I’m Irja and teach in the Upper School. My main teaching subject is German (I’m not German though, I’m originally from Switzerland) and I also have a few other roles within the school, such Class 11 Kaiarataki and I’m also the International Students Coordinator. 

I’m excited that the New Zealand borders are open again and we can welcome international students at Raphael House this year. I have a passion for travelling, the environment and languages. 

This year, I am continuing on my Te Reo learning journey and while my steps are small, they are steady. 

In my free time I like to do yoga, go tramping and spend time with my family (my husband (a Kiwi), my daughter Nina (20) and my son Miro (13). 

Another thing that I like doing at the moment is going bouldering, which I find energizing and challenging at the same time.