Introducing our New Staff

Joseph Papesch 

Although  born in Christchurch, I have lived in Wellington for the last 20 years. I consider myself a proud Wellingtonian and Hurricanes supporter.

In 2016, I completed a Bachelor of Science at Victoria University majoring in Statistics with minors in Mathematics and Te Reo Maori, completing Teacher’s College the following year. 

In 2018 I spent the year teaching Mathematics at Hutt International Boys’ School in the Hutt Valley, before moving down to Christchurch last month. 

I  really enjoy rugby, the gym and exploring the rivers and bays around the country.

I look forward to seeing what Shirley Boys’ High and Christchurch has to offer this year.

Ulimasao Pesefea

It is a blessing to be back as an old boy and give back to this school through the profession of teaching. This school has allowed me to explore and thrive on opportunities both in and outside of the classroom in which I am grateful for.

In 2017, I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in both English and Media and Communication.

In 2018, I completed my diploma in teaching and learning.

This is my first year of teaching and am enjoying the journey thus far. I am excited to grow in this profession and share as much as I can with this school and the community.

Faafetai lava.

Jacki Morris

I have lived in many places in New Zealand as my father was in the army – but the largest part of my childhood was spent in Palmerston North.

I moved from Whangaparaoa with my husband Grant, and two sons (Michael and Matthew) to Christchurch 14 years ago as we wanted a more relaxed lifestyle than what we had working in Auckland. Michael is studying to become a paramedic and Matthew attends Ferndale School.

I have an extensive background in administration and governance, but my passion lies within the pastoral area.

I am extremely happy to be part of Shirley Boys’ High School.

Mike Li

Born in the UK, educated there and in Malta, I left school at age 16 to join the armed forces of the UK where I was trained as a Weapons Engineer, serving in a variety of roles and gaining qualifications recognised globally in the process.

After 11 years service the Royal Navy and Marines and service in the Armed forces of the Sultanate of Oman, I  worked for 24 years as a consultant Geodesist and Geophysicist on oil and gas exploration projects globally, before completing my teaching degree. at Canterbury University a little over a year ago. I taught Physics and Science at Cashmere High School before coming to Shirley Boys at the start of this year.

Married with two daughters, aged 29 and 16, I’m really enjoying the challenges of teaching, at the start of this, my third career . I'm looking forward to being involved in the progression of Shirley  to the new site in March this year.

Clare Cooper

Originally from South Africa, I moved to Christchurch with my family almost 11 years ago. We feel incredibly blessed to call New Zealand home.

I am married to Glenn, and we have two children, Tom (15) and Olivia (13), who keep us very busy. I enjoy skiing, walking and mountain biking, as well as exploring new places in New Zealand and spending time with my family.

My work experience lies predominantly in the Health Industry, having worked in administration and as a clinical assistant at a large medical centre. Up until a year ago, I was a volunteer Ambulance Officer (EMT), which I did for 10 years.

I am looking forward to my new role at Shirley Boys High School, and am excited to be part of the SBHS family. 

Tim Derig

Originally from up a small town North of Auckland, I found myself in my final year of high school at Mount Hutt College in Methven. This year sparked my passion for the outdoors and I have been based in Christchurch and adventuring abroad ever since.

I consider Christchurch home and over the 10 years I have spent studying and working in the outdoor industry I have learnt much about the wider Canterbury and South Island region and what is has to offer.

I spend my weekends getting into the outdoors as much as I can, surfing, hiking and cycling.

I look forward to working at Shirley Boys and hope to pass my passion for the outdoors onto others. 

Laura McLeod

I am both excited and privileged to take on the role of Gateway Co-ordinator at Shirley Boys’ High School.  As a Marian College old girl I feel as though this move is somewhat of a homecoming and I looking forward to once again living and working in the East of Christchurch.

Upon leaving school I studied at Victoria and Canterbury Universities, completing a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary). My early teaching career took me to Northland and West Auckland before settling again in Christchurch after an extended OE.  For the last seven years I have worked within the Social Science and Careers Departments of Christchurch Girls’ High School.

Much of my time outside of school is spent with my family. My husband Steve (a proud SBHS old boy) and I have two pre-school aged daughters and we like to get out to the beach as much as we can.  My sporting interests include Hockey and Cricket and I am slowly being persuaded into picking up the Golf clubs.

I am looking forward to seeing my Gateway students discover their career pathways and thrive in their work placements in 2019.