Principal
Tēnā koutou e te Whānau ō Glenavon, ko John Hunte tāku ingoa.
2025 is my 11th year at Glenavon School, and it remains such a great place to be every day! Our students are wonderful, our staff are committed, passionate people, and our whānau support us in our vision of ‘Achieving the Extraordinary’. We believe that school should be an action-packed journey of learning, discovery and creativity while having a whole lof of fun along the way. It’s my job to make sure this journey is a smooth ride and ensure that our students are getting the best we have to offer. I am so proud to be part of a team of like-minded people who work hard to make sure our students develop a love for learning that will set them up for a bright and fulfilling future.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family. I love playing the drums at any chance I get and being involved in as much sport as I can.
Welcome to the Glenavon whānau.
Deputy Principal
Tēnā koutou, e te whānau!
I’m Rach McDonell, Deputy Principal, and 2025 marks my 11th year at Glenavon School. I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful to continue serving this incredible community!
Outside of school, I love spending time with my partner, Ash, and our boys, Mako and Jet. We enjoy everything outdoors and simply pottering around home.
Every parent wants their child to feel safe, build connections, and have fun, memorable experiences at school. Glenavon is absolutely that place. I’m passionate about learning beyond the classroom, curriculum innovation, and creating opportunities for our tamariki. I also love learning alongside our dedicated team, ensuring we deliver relevant, future-focused learning.
Glenavon is full of talented, beautiful tamariki with limitless potential. We work hard to create a welcoming environment where learning and connections thrive—a place we’re all proud to be part of. Glenavon truly is something special.
Assistant Principal School Operations
Kia ora, Hello, Yia sou
My name is Whaea Suzie, and I am in my second year as an Assistant Principal and leader of the arts at Glenavon School.
I love my job, and that is because of the unique, treasured, warm-spirited community, our gifted teachers, and our extraordinary tamariki. I am fortunate enough to look after our systems and operations at the school. I work in the staffing space, manage specialist release for teachers, run the Beginning Teachers Programme, and manage our Student Teacher Programme—among many other things!
I also continue to coach singing through Glen’s Gospel and teach the school band. I love working with our Senior Art Club students and look forward to collaborating on many creative projects with them in the future. I am so passionate about how the arts are targeting many of our students’ core curriculum needs, often without them even realizing it. Another passion is seeing our team reach our goals, thrive, and love our jobs.
I am a local and live with my two amazing boys, Moses and Rhodes. Always say hello—I love a chat!
Assistant Principal SENCO
Kia ora koutou!
This is my 10th year at Glenavon. I’m passionate about supporting our students to reach their full potential, both academically and socially. I believe in a collaborative approach to learning and work closely with teachers, students, and whānau to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all.
When I’m not at school, you’ll likely find me exploring the beautiful nature that Tāmaki Makaurau has to offer, or relaxing with a good book and a strong coffee. I look forward to connecting with you!
Kāhui Ako Across School Lead & Awa Whānau Leader
Tēnā koutou e te Whānau ō Glenavon, this year I am excited to be the whānau leader for Awa and an Across School Lead with our Kāhui Ako. As a teacher my role is to help our children to develop the skills they need to be resilient, confident, creative and ambitious. I believe in the importance of building a strong foundation and I am passionate about creating a learning environment that allows all of our learners to dream big and achieve their goals. Out of school I love to spend time with my whānau enjoying our beautiful country.
Rākau Team Leader & Tōtara Classroom Teacher
Tēnā koutou e te Whānau ō Glenavon, He uri ahau nō Tainui, ko Trude tāku ingoa. I am thrilled to be the Team Leader of the Rākau team again, and collaborate with Steff Palamo and the Tōtara students in an Innovative Learning Environment (ILE) this year. Glenavon is a place of teaching and learning where we ALL share our experience and expertise that enables our students to have the best opportunities. The staff are an incredibly talented group of dedicated and hardworking people. Whānau are involved and highly supportive, reinforcing the belief that it takes a village to raise a child. I am honoured to be part of such an innovative and caring community. Mauri Ora!
Moana Team Leader & Wheke Classroom Teacher
Kia ora koutou and tālofa lava, Glenavon whānau! This year, I am super excited to be the Wheke teacher and Moana Team Leader. I am proud to be part of such a collaborative, passionate, and caring team where our students are at the centre of everything we do. My passion lies in helping our tamariki build confidence and creating a safe space for them to back themselves and take risks in their learning. On the weekends, I love going on bush walks or spending time at the beach with my family.
Manu Team Leader & Tūī Classroom Teacher
Kia Ora, this year, I step into the role of Manu whanau leader, and I couldn’t be more excited! You’ll find me in Tūī, working alongside our wonderful Year 7 and 8 learners. I can’t wait to see this group of students develop their leadership, curiosity, and confidence throughout the year.
Beyond the classroom, I love being outdoors – whether it’s at the beach, on the sports field, or exploring new spots around Auckland. Growing up in New Plymouth, I learned the value of a strong community. Now, as I begin my fourth official year at Glenavon, it truly feels like a second home.The energy, kindness, and enthusiasm here make every day something to look forward to, bring on 2025!
Inanga Classroom Teacher
Kia ora koutou,
Ko Lauren tāku ingoa.
I have the privilege of teaching New Entrants this year in the Inanga classroom at Glenavon School.
I have been in the teaching industry since 2015 and am passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment that empowers children to build a foundation for lifelong learning.
I believe in nurturing children’s relationships with teachers and peers, affirming their identity, and creating a learning space where children feel supported, confident, and ready to thrive.
Outside of school, you can find me with my whānau and friends, enjoying a hot cup of tea. I love fishing, camping, sewing, and dancing.
Tarauta Classroom Teacher
Tēnā koutou katoa, Fakalofaalahi atu,
I feel truly grateful for the year ahead and the privilege of teaching in Tarauta. I look forward to getting to know each of my students, supporting their growth, and creating a warm and nurturing space where they feel valued and inspired to learn. Outside the classroom, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and staying active through sports. I look forward to a wonderful year with your amazing children in 2025!
Pātiki Classroom Teacher
Kia ora, I have had a fantastic start at Glenavon and am excited to be going into my second year working at this wonderful and creative school. I have been a teacher for many decades. I have had wonderful opportunities through my career to Teach abroad so have taught internationally in U.K. Thailand, Vietnam and China. I’m really enjoying being back in Aotearoa and living near whānau. I am loving the community and whānau inclusion of this school and the great team support. As a New Entrant Teacher I believe children learn best when there is an integration of play, drama and creativity. I value having strong and reciprocal partnerships with whānau and am very much looking forward to getting to know you.
Piriwai Classroom Teacher
Kia ora koutou,
Ko Erika Wilson tāku ingoa. A few of you may recognise me as a teacher formerly from Glenavon Preschool. This year, you will find me in Piriwai teaching our amazing year 2 students. I believe that children thrive when their holistic well-being is upheld and their whānau is respected and valued. Piriwai will be a place where students are supported to be kind, confident and resilient learners who feel a strong sense of belonging at Glenavon School. When I’m not at school, I enjoy reading, baking and exploring our beautiful Aotearoa.
Peketua Classroom Teacher
Kia ora koutou,
This is my 5th year at Glenavon School and I love being part of the amazing Glenavon community. For 2025 I will be teaching in my awesome new classroom space, called Peketua. I am really looking forward to getting to know the year 2 tamariki in my class. Peketua will be a creative and caring classroom that encourages students to collaborate with others and explore their interests. I love helping tamariki to find the special things that they are good at and fostering a healthy sense of confidence. I really enjoy teaching literacy, art, and maths and getting outdoors to play games and explore.
Kekeno Classroom Teacher
Kia ora koutou! Welcome to 2025 – a brand-new year filled with possibilities! I’m excited to continue my journey at Glenavon School, teaching the incredible Year 3 and 4 students in Kekeno as part of the Moana team. In our class, we embrace challenges, celebrate successes, and support each other every step of the way. I can’t wait to see what this year will bring!
Pāpahu Classroom Teacher
Kia ora koutou, Talofa lava, Mālō e lelei,
Glenavon is a special place! This year, I am excited to teach our awesome Year 3 and 4 students and be part of the Moana team. Like the playful and clever pāpahu (dolphin), our class will be full of energy, teamwork, and discovery. Together, we’ll grow, tackle challenges, and celebrate each other’s unique strengths. Outside of school, you’ll find me enjoying game nights with whānau and friends, hanging out with five energetic nieces and nephews, or heading outdoors for new adventures. Looking forward to an epic year ahead!
Pāua Classroom Teacher
Asalamualaikum and Kia ora!
I am super excited to be teaching the amazing year 3/4 in Pāua Room 8. With a love for teaching, I especially enjoy creating lessons that incorporate the interests of my students so that learning is fun and engaging. Outside of school, I love spending time with family and friends, baking and travelling.
I am super excited and look forward to this school year!
Mānuka Classroom Teacher
Nau mai, haere mai e te whānau!
I am so excited to be stepping into the Rākau world this year! I could talk about our Glenavon students all day – they are kind, bold, creative, and inquisitive, making every day so much fun! I’m looking forward to a fresh year full of learning and opportunities.
After teaching our oldest learners for so long, I’m thrilled to take on the year with our incredible Year 5 and 6s! Being a teacher here at Glenavon is truly the best job in the world, and I feel so honoured to be part of my students’ school journey.
Outside of school, I love spending time with my husband and family, getting hands-on with crafty hobbies like pottery and sewing, making the most of our small veggie garden, and reading!
Kōwhai Classroom Teacher
Kia Ora!
This is my first year at Glenavon School, as well as my first year teaching. I’m excited to make 2025 one to remember! Originally from the small but mighty Hauraki Plains, I’ve swapped the quiet life for the hustle and bustle of Auckland. In my free time, you’ll find me playing sports, enjoying the beach, reading a good book, or hanging out with my friends and whānau. Teaching has always been my calling, and the moment I stepped onto the grounds of Glenavon last year, I knew this was the place for me. Lets go 2025!
Tōtara Classroom Teacher
Talofa lava! Afio Mai. Maliu mai. O lo’u igoa o Steff Palamo. I am so stoked to be back for another year teaching Year 5 & 6 alongside Trude Karaka in Tōtara. This will be my 4th year teaching and also my 4th year at Glenavon! I am a proud afakasi and a big believer that it truly takes a village to raise a child. I have been fortunate enough to have an awesome village around me which makes me so excited to be part of your child’s village. Outside of school, I love spending time with my husband and friends. swimming, baking, and eating. Bring on 2024!
Kākāpō Classroom Teacher
Kia ora, I am the classroom teacher of Kākāpō. I have been working at Glenavon School since 2018 and I am thrilled to be back teaching intermediate. Having my own child has enhanced why I love working with children and seeing the world through their eyes with so much imagination and creativity! When I am not at Glenavon I am spending time with family and friends at the beach, reading books and I love watching live music.
Pūkeko Classroom Teacher
Talofa Lava and Kia Ora
From two terms in the very beginning of the ‘awa’ to high above the treetops in Manu, I have always felt welcomed, accepted and supported by this amazing community. I enjoy creating an environment that my students, their families and I love to spend time in – a safe and nurturing space where we can learn, laugh and grow together in the incredible environment that is “Glenavon” . Having spent the past 40 years raising my family in both New Zealand and Samoa, I am on a personal voyage of rediscovery. With humility and gratitude, I look forward to embracing all students – their cultures, languages and faiths – as we embark on our shared journey in 2025.
Karearea Classroom Teacher
Kia ora and Namaskaram.
After relieving and being a part-time teacher at Glenavon last year, I am delighted to be back this year full-time as an intermediate teacher in Kārearea. I am passionate about creating a structured and safe learning environment for students where their potential and skills are fostered and appreciated.
Outside of school I spend my time baking, being active and doing all things arts and crafts. So excited to be a part of the Glenavon community in 2025!
Bilingual & Learning Support Coordinator & Specialist Literacy Support & Kāhui Ako Within School Lead
Kia ora everyone. In 2025 I feel privileged to be working in a range of areas across the school. I will continue learning with our awesome bilingual students and will now also work alongside the fabulous Mrs Kerrison taking literacy groups. I am delighted to still be assisting with Learning Support and have also taken on the Kāhui Ako WSL position. Glenavon is a place where students can find that crucial sense of belonging. This is due to everyone’s kindness, care and diligence and I hope to add to this kaupapa in my roles.
Outside of work you will find me spending time with my gorgeous twin niece and nephew, exploring our beautiful land. We especially love swimming and playing at the beach. On less sunny days we’ll be at a park, an op-shop, the “ice cream factory” (cafe!), or reading a tonne of stories!
Te Reo Māori Specialist
Tēnā tātou!
He uri ahau nō Te Rarawa me Ngāpuhi.
He mokopuna o Te Uri o Hina.
Ko Whaea Soph tōku ingoa.
Tino hīkaka ahua i taku hokinga mai ki Glenavon! I tērā tau, I haere au ki Te Whare Wānanga o Takiura ki te ako te reo Māori. Ināianei, māku e whakaako tā mātou reo rangatira ki ngā tamariki me ngā pākeke o Glenavon School.
I’m so excited to be back after a year of learning Te Reo Māori to share all the mātauranga I’ve gained. This year I will be running the Te Reo Māori programme where all students will learn to think through a Te Ao Māori lense. We’ll touch on tikanga (Māori protocols), pūrākau (stories), basic sentence structures, pronunciation, kapahaka, karakia (prayers), kēmu Māori (Māori games) and all things Māori!
Mēnā kei te pīrangi koe ki te kōrero ki ahau, tēnā haere mai ki te kōrero! If you’re wanting to get in touch with me come and have a kōrero or send me an email at: [email protected]
Mā te hapa, ka ako, mā te ako, ka puāwai.
We learn by making mistakes, and through learning we flourish.
Health & Physical Education
Kia ora! I have been blessed with the privilege of joining the Glenavon staff as the Health and PE Specialist. I bring with me a passion for fitness and a love of learning. I believe in fostering meaningful relationships, celebrating the individual, and showing kindness to all. I look forward to getting to know the Glenavon community and I am always keen for a chat. If you see me around, please feel free to approach me as my door is always open.
Te Reo Specialist + Release
‘He Wīwi, He Naati, He Whanokē’ Ngā mihi nunui ki a koutou. It warms my heart to be returning to Glenavon in 2024. This year I will be running the māori bilingual class with a special group of tamariki every Monday. It is a privilege to walk alongside the tamariki and their whānau as they discover more about who they are and how they can contribute to the world through a māori lens. Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my family and training at the local Jiu Jitsu gym. ‘Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa’ – Let us be close together, not far apart.
Release & Cover
Hi everyone! I’m excited to be working with your tamariki again in 2025! I’ll continue to do my mahi three days a week here at Glenavon. On my days off work, I spend my time with my two kids at home and helping out in my local community kids club, and other family groups. My favourite thing about teaching is watching children and families grow in confidence in expressing their creativity! You will probably see me teaching Visual Art or singing with the children whenever I can. See you around school!
Poipoia te kākano kia puāwai! Nurture the seed and it will blossom! Ngā mihi mahana ki a koutou!
Release & Cover
Kia ora koutou! I’m thrilled to be joining the amazing Glenavon community this year. With three lively boys shaping my understanding of youth, I bring a blend of empathy and enthusiasm to the classroom. When I’m not teaching, I thrive on outdoor activities, whether it’s cycling with my tamariki or enjoying nature walks with our kurī.
Ngā mihi
Learning Assistant
Kia ora, Bula, Assalam wa alaikum, and Hi,
There are so many reasons why I love being a Teacher Aide at Glenavon Primary School. I feel valued, respected and I am proud of my role.
It is a meaningful job, to see the potential of every ākonga (student) I support grow. Making connections and having fun while learning is important. It is about expanding their opportunities and to inspire. Let them be the best versions of themselves.
When I am not at work, I will be reading, baking and seeing family and friends. I cherish the outdoors, so once a year I try to fit in a Great Walk of New Zealand.
Learning Assistant
I am proud to be a Niuean and very passionate to be working alongside students of all ages and cultures, here at Glenavon School. My life is about learning something new each day and embracing as well as appreciating others challenges and differences. Although I come from a Rugby League family, I also love watching Rugby Union – my favourite player being Richie McCaw!
Learning Assistant
Kia Ora,
My name is Babita Tan and I am grateful to have the opportunity to work alongside the staff and students at Glenavon School. I have lived in New Zealand for the last 18 years and have worked as a teacher aide for the past 6 years. I am really enjoying getting to know all the students and the talents they have.
Learning Assistant
Tālofa lava, O lo’u igoa o Miss Sio.
This will be my third year working within this beautiful community as a teacher aide. On Tuesday and Wednesdays you will also find me in ruma Mānuka as a student teacher. I have a passion for supporting the hauora of our learners, celebrating all forms of creative expression, and building strong relationships. I am excited for another year of our tamariki achieving the extraordinary.Fa’amalosi mai! Cheeehoooo!
Learning Assistant
Hi all,
I have 4 grown ‘kidults’, 4 grandchildren and I have been raising my 2 beautiful nieces for the last 6 years. My nieces have been coming to Glenavon for the last 3 years and I am very happy to be returning this year to help our awesome teachers in the role of teacher aide. I love the spirit of Glenavon and look forward to working with their amazing students.
Learning Assistant
Kia ora Koutou,
My name is Celeste and I am really excited to be a member of the Glenavon whānau. I feel so privileged to share the schooling journey with your children, and help support them achieve positive outcomes. I am passionate about education and the different types of ways students learn, therefore I adapt my teaching/supporting style to cater for their individual needs. In my spare time I like to spend time with my own whānau and enjoy the outdoors. Please come and say hello if you see me around the school.
Learning Assistant
Hi all,
I’m Miss Livi, this will be my second year working at the wonderful Glenavon. This year I will be working as a teacher aide, predominantly supporting the wonderful team in Awa, two days a week and I’m excited to be starting my first year of teacher training alongside working.
In my spare time you can find me at home with my kiddos, crafting, cooking, knitting and learning the piano. Or off on an adventure with them somewhere and making the most of this beautiful country we live in!
Learning Assistant
Kia ora e te whanau! Ko Jasmine toku ingoa. Your tamariki call me Whaea Jazz. This is my first year at Glenavon School and I have to say there is something very special about this place. It’s very warm, welcoming an nurturing – providing the perfect safe space that all tamariki deserve to learn, grow and thrive.
I feel very privileged to be working alongside the amazing supportive staff here and look forward to getting to know all your tamariki. I have previously worked in an Early Childhood setting and have always been passionate about working with tamariki, I truly believe its the most rewarding job in the world. I have three tamariki of my own and in my spare time you will find me going on adventures with them, supporting them on a field or court. I also love going to the gym.
I look forward to supporting your tamariki in their successful year ahead!
Learning Assistant
Malo e lelei and Tālofa lava! O lo’u igoa o Rietta.
My passion for serving is rooted in my love for my aiga, my culture, and my alofa for my community. I am primarily based in our Awa whānau helping our young learners transition into their new learning environment. I have been fortunate to be a part of the Glenavon whānau for six years in a variety of roles and look forward to adding another year of supporting our amazing tamaiti in their learning.Fa’afetai tele lava!
Learning Assistant & Student Teacher
Kia Ora Everyone.
So pumped to be back at the Glen after being away on Maternity leave. Even though it was hard to leave my baby, I am so excited to be back. I have missed the students and the vibe at Glenavon!! Super excited to be doing my student teacher days here as a year 2 student and back as Teacher aide Monday and Thursday.
Finance & Property
I have the privilege of working in the Glenavon School office for the last 21 years on Monday to Wednesday looking after our School Finances and Property. I enjoy being part of a wonderful school team where we see our students grow to be outstanding learners and citizens. When I’m not at Glenavon I enjoy my family life with my husband Keith and our wonderful children and their partners and our grandchildren.
Office Admin
Kia Ora,
I’m thrilled to be starting another year at Glenavon. You can find me in the office doing all things admin.
I look forward to a fun year ahead!
Office & Student Teacher
Kia ora! I’m Miss Harris, and I’m excited to be back in the office a few days a week, welcoming students and families. I’m also looking forward to joining in some classroom fun and learning alongside you all this year. I love hearing about students’ weekend sporting results and achievements—so don’t be shy, come and share your successes! Outside of school, you’ll often find me on the sideline, cheering on my own kids with pride. Can’t wait for a great year ahead!
Office & Student Teacher
Kia ora! I am really excited to be involved in a few different areas at Glenavon this year, you will see me in the office, Glen’s Garden, and I am also very grateful to be a student teacher this year in Pāpahu for 2 days a week. When I am not at school I love to spend time with my family, have adventures out and about, and find ways to make and enjoy music.
Caretaker
Kia Ora, Fakalofa lahi atu, Talofa lava, Malo e lelei , Kia Orana, Greetings. My name is Derek and I am the caretaker here at Glenavon school the BEST school in NZ!
Lunch breaks you can find me running circles around the kids in basketball, touch, and soccer then it’s a long sore robot walk back to the shed.
Cleaner
Hi, my name is Tapana and I love working at Glenavon School. I have been involved with the school and community for a number of years and love the people here. I love watching children succeed and particularly love watching them perform at the schools events.
Social Worker
I am the Social Worker in Schools, employed by Family Works Northern, contracted to work at Glenavon School. I work with familes to develop plans to improve their safety, wellbeing and educational outcomes. I am at Glenavon School Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday morning. I can be contacted through the school, on my Mobile 021-493848 or email address [email protected]
Community HUB Support Worker
Kia Ora
Ko Jacquelin toku ingoa also known as Whaea Jackie
I’ve been with the Glenavon Community for over two years. This is my third year in my role of being a Community Support Worker, Community Sports & play Manager, & Community Kura Reo Facilitator.
My vision is to support the families in and around the community and make it a greater outcome for 2025. It’s a privilege to work alongside our awesome kura and amazing kaiako.
Community HUB Coordinator
I am so stoked to be leading this team, it’s a real privilege!
Our motto is ‘doing good stuff together’. My own motto – ‘This is our hood and these are our people.”
Glenavon Community HUB believes that through holistic care, support and the programs we offer connection and community are created. Our team seek the tools for our people to develop and acknowledge their gifts and talents and showcase their strengths, seeing themselves a valuable in their own life story. CONNECTED COMMUNITY, are HEALTHY, STRONG, RESILIENT communities. Come and take that journey with our team. Arohanui