We are thrilled to announce new staffing appointments for the 2025 school year.

Kia ora e te whānau

We are thrilled to announce that we have now confirmed staffing appointments. These appointments, combined with a range of community events scheduled this term, have enhanced our excitement to begin the 2025 school year.

Rebecca (Bex) Osborn has successfully secured the Team Leader position for Years 5 and 6. Many of you already know Bex as an experienced, collaborative teacher who has been with Te Rito Harakeke – Marshland School for the past nine years. Throughout her time here, she has developed strong relationships with students, staff, whānau, and the wider community. Over the last three years, Bex has served as the Curriculum Strategic Leader, supporting staff in enhancing their knowledge of high-quality teaching practices through Inquiry and Integration. Additionally, Bex has led the organisation of school productions, demonstrating her commitment to this significant responsibility.

Jayden Bowditch, a valued member of the Korimako Hub, has now secured a permanent position at Te Rito Harakeke – Marshland School. Jayden’s experience spans working with tamariki and kaiako in the junior school (New Entrant to Year 4), where he has consistently built strong relationships, contributing to the fantastic rapport he shares with his students. Among Jayden’s key strengths are his ability to foster positive relationships, a keen interest in sports (with a particular passion for football), excellent organisational skills, and his expertise as a highly-skilled Mathematics practitioner.

Victoria Hills is a confident and capable educator from Dunedin and has been in a Year 5-6 classroom during 2024. She has previously had an academic scholarship for Otago University, has strengths in supporting students from diverse backgrounds and is a high-level sports person, coaching and representing her region in Netball and Volleyball. Victoria is also a team player grounded in Whanaungatanga (strong relational connections) and Manaakitanga (respect and care). Her respect for diverse perspectives, resilience, and relational skills make her a valuable addition to our school.

Courtney Milligan is a dedicated and committed teacher with a strong background teaching students across Years 2–4, having taught in both Invercargill and Oamaru. She has actively engaged in professional learning and development, particularly in the areas of Structured Literacy and Mathematics, enhancing her teaching expertise in these key areas. In addition, Courtney brings advanced skills in working with students who have very high and complex needs, ensuring an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all her students. Her experience also includes holding various leadership responsibilities, including a prominent role in PB4L (Positive Behaviour for Learning), which reflects her commitment to fostering positive school cultures. Courtney’s combination of experience, skill, and dedication make her an invaluable asset to our school.

Nathan Chilton is a positive and passionate teacher who has secured a permanent position at Te Rito Harakeke – Marshland School. Specialising in teaching Year 7–8 students, he is committed to building positive, supportive relationships, setting high expectations, and developing systems to ensure student success as they prepare for secondary school. Nathan brings a wealth of experience from his time teaching at Knightstream, Kaiapoi North, Rangiora Borough, an American International School in Beijing, and an International School in Lusaka. He has also held leadership roles in curriculum and pedagogy, with particular expertise in leading the PYP (International Curriculum), P.E./Health, and Maths.

Ngā mihi,

Riki