Nau Mai Haere Mai Kaiako

We have recently employed four new kaiako to join our amazing team in 2023. We were absolutely thrilled with the calibre of applicants who applied for the roles. We really were spoilt for choice and felt humbled by the amount of kaiako wanting to be with us in Kura Street.

Jimmy Steele comes to us from Rāroa Intermediate as a highly experienced teacher and leader. At Rāroa, Jimmy is both a Team Leader and a Kahui Ako School Leader. Jimmy’s ability to connect and build amazing learning relationships with ākonga is exceptional and we welcome his arrival with excitement.

Matt O’Hagan comes to us from Thorndon Primary as a highly experienced teacher and leader. Matt is currently acting as a Deputy Principal and has led many teams of teachers over the years. Travelling and a journey in learning Te Reo Māori has been a big part of Matt’s recent years. We are stoked that he has chosen us to further pursue his career.

Khaylen Huriwai arrives from Windley Primary. Khaylen had a highly successful placement here as a trainee and we are thrilled to have him as part of our team officially. Khaylen is a qualified lawyer but lucky for us, teaching was preferred. He has passion for sports and connecting with his Māori and Samoan heritage. We look forward to having Khaylen officially in our kaiako whānau.

Lauren Blakeley is a beginning teacher who has been training in the deep south. Lauren was Head Girl of Ōtaki College before taking on her teaching qualifications. She currently represents Otago in union and league and we are thrilled to have her start her career with us. We are delighted to have Lauren in our junior team in 2023.