About Me

My ancestors are predominantly from England (Kent, Surrey and Berkshire) , Wales and Norway. Some of my Mum’s ancestors came on the Essex in 1842, some of my Dad’s ancestors on the Clifton in 1843.

I identify as Pākehā/tangata tiriti.

I was born in Hawera, on Ngāti Ruanui whenua, and grew up at the ankles of the great mountain Taranaki in Ngāmotu, sheltered within a loving family and an immense extended whānau.

After university, I travelled the world, met a Northern Englishman, and now live on the Kāpiti Coast, on Te Atiawa ki Whakarongotai whenua in a house on a hill – with my husband, our two wonderful boys, a dog called Pepper and 11 chickens. In addition to my work, I adore growing food, tramping, camping, festivals and dress-ups.

I have a Bachelor of Arts (History/Art History) a Diploma of Teaching (Secondary) and a Masters of Education (Distinction) in Curriculum, Teaching and Learning.

I was a secondary teacher in History, Art History and Visual Arts both here and in the UK before completing my Masters of Education (Distinction) under Professor Wally Penetito’s supervision at He Parekereke at Victoria University of Wellington.

I worked at Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand as their Senior Programme Developer in Education before moving to the Ministry of Education National Office to manage Te Kotahitanga, Ako Panuku and Te Kauhua as Senior Advisor Māori in English Medium within the Curriculum, Teaching and Learning team. I worked with the Teaching Council within Innovation and Collaboration, where I began the project which eventually became Unteach Racism.

I now consult independently and as an Associate at Cognition Education Group. Take a look at a portfolio of recent work and what others say about me.

If you want to know more about my career and qualifications, please feel free to get in touch.