ACG New Zealand International College Staff
Mark Haines
 Principal, ACG City Campus
Mark began teaching in 1981, having graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Science the year before. He trained to be a teacher at Auckland Teachers College. Mark's early years saw him return to the school that he attended as a student, Kelston Boys' High School. Teaching in Niue for two years as Head of Science developed his interest in language and working with students whose first language was something other than English. In the 1990s Mark spent six years working at a school for girls in Brunei, which provided further insight into English second language learning. This inspired Mark to commence a Master of Science education, looking at how digital media could assist an ESL student with their learning. He also gained an appreciation of working with people from an Islamic country. After a brief time teaching at Waitakere College, on return to New Zealand in 2000, Mark commenced teaching at ACG New Zealand International College. During this time he had the privilege of seeing the Foundation programme grow.
Ten years later, Mark is delighted to be Principal and working with the three International Colleges based primarily at the City Campus. Students are in good hands with the high quality staff that teach them and provide extra support through the International Centre. It is very much a team effort at the Campus and Mark is extremely grateful to the dedicated people who work at 345 Queen St.
Phillip Morris
Campus Deputy Principal, ACG City Campus
Maths, TSS, C&S Teacher
Phillip has lived all his life in West Auckland (a Westie), completing a BSc in Geography and Mathematics at the University of Auckland and his teacher training qualifications at Auckland Teachers College.
Phillip has only ever taught at two places, spending 27 years at Massey High School in West Auckland and nine years at ACG. In his early teaching career, he studied as an extra-mural student at Massey University gaining a Diploma of Social Science in Computer Science. Early in his teaching career, he switched his teaching focus from Geography to Computer Science and was one of the early (and few teachers) to teach Computer Science in a high school environment. He was teaching Computer Science in the days when computers didn't have hard drives or a mouse! As such, he was often leading the way in using technology in the classroom, curriculum and administration.
This change also brought him into the area of timetabling. Phillip has been constructing school timetables for around 30 years and still enjoys the challenge. At Massey High School, he was asked to become a Dean and was promoted to Senior Dean and Executive Administrator. This role included him being Massey High School's Curriculum Co-ordinator and NZQA Liaison Person, overseeing the introduction of NCEA at Massey High School.
While at Massey High School, he became involved in producing and directing musicals and plays – diverse as Grease, Annie Get Your Gun and Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing. This culminated in two trips to Melbourne, Australia – with 30 students and fellow Directors – with students performing a variety of short plays, dance and music in a variety of High Schools and other venues.
In 2002, he accepted a position at ACG as an Assistant Principal in ACG English School – still with a timetabling focus. In 2006, he became Director of the English School and later took on the responsibility of the day-to-day running of ACG Norton College and ACG Business School. In 2010, Phillip became Campus Deputy Principal at 345 Queen St.
Phillip still has a strong and passionate interest in using technology in the classroom.
Nandy Nathu
Campus Deputy Principal, ACG City Campus
Chemistry Teacher
Nandy joined ACG New Zealand International College in October 2000 as Deputy Principal. In 2001, he taught a Senior College Chemistry class before teaching International Students in 2002. Nandy thoroughly enjoys working with International students. Nandy started his teaching career at Samoa College (1983-1985), and then taught at Auckland Grammar school (1986 – 2000) before joining ACG New Zealand International College.
Nandy Nathu was educated in Auckland and Dunedin. He attended Remuera Primary School, Dunedin North Intermediate and Auckland Grammar School. Nandy Nathu holds a Master of Science degree in Chemistry from Otago University.
In 1993, Nandy was awarded the 13th AGS Staff Travel Scholarship at the Auckland Grammar School Prize Giving Ceremony. This annual award enabled Nandy to visit educational institutes throughout the world (Nashville, Tennessee; Toronto, Edinburgh and London).
Nandy enjoys watching rugby, rugby league (NRL), hockey, cricket and tennis.
Elizabeth Acosta
Statistics & Calculus Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Elizabeth Acosta joins ACG New Zealand International College as a mathematics teacher. Born in Mexico, she moved to the United Kingdom as a teenager to pursue her science education. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Physics from Kent University, an MSc in Modern and Applied Optics from Reading University and a PhD in Physics from Exeter University.
Elizabeth's interest in Optics led her to a career in research and development with Sharp Laboratories of Europe Ltd., Oxford. Her area of research was Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs) and successes included technology transfer to the grandparent company in Japan, multiple (national and international) patents, scientific publications, maintaining (external and academic) interactions and winning the best presentation at a Rank Prize symposium on Surface Interactions (for Pi-cell domain growth).
Elizabeth enjoys travelling, learning about different countries (and their cultures) and tasting the local specialities. In 2009, she took a year out to visit chosen countries in Europe, Australasia, North America and South America.
Kerry-Ann Boyle
Design Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Kerry-Ann Boyle joined the Senior College Art and Design Department in 2003. In 2004 she introduced the Cambridge AS History of Art programme.
Kerry-Ann gained her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at Canterbury University and her Master's degree from Auckland University in 1998. Prior to Senior College, Kerry-Ann taught at Epsom Girls Grammar School, Northcote College and Baradene College.
Chris Burgess
Accounting Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Chris Burgess teaches Accounting, Economics and Business Studies. Chris brings with him a depth of understanding about small business operations and entrepreneurship.
Chris's academic research has focused on the development of 'intrapreneurship' and fostering innovative ideas within New Zealand organisations. Chris holds a Master's Degree in Business Management, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching, a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Studies. Chris enjoys travelling and water sports in his spare time.
Iok Chan
Accounting Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Iok joined ACG in June 2000. She started with Senior College at the city, then moved to NZIC. In 2007, she shifted again to Parnell College until the union of all international colleges at the beginning of 2012. She is currently teaching Accounting at NZIC City Campus, 345 Queen Street.
Iok received her BA degree in Finance and Economic Studies at the University of Western Ontario, Canada. She also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching from the University of Auckland. She has taught different levels of Accounting, including School Certificate, Sixth Form, Bursary, IGCSE, AS, A2 and Foundation in her 12-year teaching experiences at ACG. Economics and Mathematics are the minor subjects that Iok has also taught at ACG.
Before migrating to New Zealand, Iok was teaching Accounting and English in Macau, where she comes from. Besides her passion for teaching, Iok had been a volunteer telephone counsellor in Auckland and she is now helping in the Chinese Elderly non-profit making organisation. Iok enjoys travelling, shopping, taking photos and dining out. Every year she goes back to Macau to visit her family and returns to Auckland with a suitcase loaded with new clothes and shoes!
Manaia Chou-Lee
Accounting Teacher and Dean
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
After completing a degree in Science with a double major in Software Engineering and Management Communication at the University of Waikato, Manaia decided to complete her Post Graduate Diploma in Teaching at the Auckland College of Education. She headed overseas to teach in Japan for two years and on returning home, furthered her teaching experience at Massey High School. While at Massey High School, Manaia taught Business Studies and Accounting in the Commerce Department and was also in charge of Pasifika Achievement and International Cultural Activities within the wider school environment. She then moved overseas for three years; teaching for two of those years in the Highlands of Scotland.
On her return to New Zealand, Manaia took a post at the New Zealand International College where she has been for teaching for 3 years. Pastoral care for students and academic counselling plays a large role in what Manaia does at ACG, where she encourages students to be proactive in their learning and culturally aware of their surroundings.
Vivian Chow
English (EAP) Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Vivian started teaching at ACG in 1999, firstly at the English Language Programme of Senior College, then at the ACG English Language School and subsequently at NZIC teaching predominantly the IELTS and the EAP programmes. Her experience includes being an IELTS examiner, teaching for a number of years at a boys' college in Auckland; at the English Language Centre of a polytechnic in Singapore and at pre-university level in Malaysia.
Born in Malaysia, Vivian came to New Zealand as a high school student and subsequently pursued her BA and MA degrees. Whilst having her family of four children, she continued with her studies to attain her post-graduate diplomas in Education, Teaching and Second Language Teaching.
Vivian enjoys travel, intercultural community activities especially the performing arts, reading, cooking, and harvesting home-grown vegetables. Above all, she loves spending time with her three grandsons.
She believes that the students at NZIC are exceptionally fortunate students and should take the opportunities and resources available to strive for their success, which is within their reach.
Alan Coop
Physics Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
The AUT International Foundation Certificate
Alan teaches Physics and Electromechanics. He came to ACG NZIC in 2012 from a diverse engineering background in mechanical design and manufacturing (Fisher & Paykel 1987-1995). Alan built a multi-million dollar computer-aided design supply and services business (Intercad NZ Ltd 1995-2002) from start-up to market dominance. The business had a turnover of over NZ$3 million, and it supplied and supported computer-aided design software.
Widely travelled, Alan is experienced in the outdoors, having lived in Wanaka for a number of years enjoying the skiing, tramping and other alpine pursuits available, as well as trekking and climbing in Asia and South America.
Alan holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Auckland. He has a history of introducing new technologies to NZ industry, having received considerable further training while visiting major US manufacturers on various research trips.
Bruce Dunning
Statistics and Calculus Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
On completion of an MSc degree in Mathematics at the University of Auckland, Bruce began teaching at Avondale College. The next decade involved teaching science, physics, economics and mathematics at New Zealand schools located in rural and urban areas, as well as graduating with a BA in Economics from Massey University. Bruce accepted a teaching position for four years in Woodstock School, India, as Head of the Mathematics faculty and High School Coordinator.
Shortly after returning to New Zealand, Bruce was appointed Senior Tutor in Mathematics at Massey University which transformed into the position Lecturer in Statistics. Bruce was the Chief Examiner for Mathematics with Statistics in the national University Bursary Examination for 4 years. A short period of secondment to the University of South Pacific in Suva, Fiji, followed.
On his return to Auckland in 2001, Bruce taught calculus and statistics at NZIC. From 2005 to 2008, Bruce taught the Cambridge IGCSE and A level curriculum at Riverside School in Prague. Currently, Bruce is at NZIC teaching mathematics and working with students and talented colleagues, which he finds most enjoyable.
Geoff Evans
Economics and Geography Teacher
Faculty Coordinator (Business/Humanities)
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Geoff teaches Economics and Geography and brings with him a wealth of teaching experience and subject leadership. He was head of social sciences at Northcote College, Head of Humanities at Parnell College and now heads the Business and Humanities faculty at NZIC.
Geoff has been involved in many aspects of curriculum, assessment and resource development in economics and is closely involved with the continuing development of Achievement Standards and Scholarship in economics. He has been a national examiner and panel leader for national examinations, and has presented a range of professional development courses nationwide.
He has written a number of economics textbooks and workbooks for Pearson Education which are widely used in New Zealand schools, as well as other publications related to economics education.
Geoff holds an Honours degree in Geography and Economics from the University of Wales. He is an active member of the New Zealand Commerce and Economics Teachers Association and environmental groups. He divides his leisure time between yachting, international travel and writing, sometimes managing to combine all three. He is married with three children and lives in Devonport.
Homelia Fernandez
English (EAP) Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Homelia started her teaching career as an English language teacher in 1987 in India after gaining a Bachelor of Arts degree. She completed a Bachelor of Education while in service. In 1994, she was employed by the Ministry of Education- Sultanate of Oman where she taught ESOL to secondary students. Homelia was regularly the highest-rated teacher in the region on end-of-year assessments.
In 2000, she was promoted to the position of Head of the English Language Department. In 2004, she was honoured with the regional "Best Teacher Award" by the Ministry of Education. The following year, she was offered the position of English Language Supervisor at the Directorate General of Education in the region. During her time in the Department of Educational Supervision, 2005 to 2009, Homelia has shown herself to be a highly effective supervisor, appraiser and teacher trainer. She has contributed immensely to the Regional Students' Forum and the Regional English Teachers' & Supervisors' Forum. From 2001 to 2009, she also performed as a "Table Head" for marking the English Language examination of the Certificate for General Diploma of Education (Oman).
In 2009, she migrated to New Zealand and was employed by Academic Colleges Group where she teaches IELTS and English for Academic Purposes (EAP). She enjoys teaching the international students and loves the teaching and learning environment at ACG.
Rob Freeman
Design Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Awarded an Australian Commonwealth Scholarship, Rob studied Graphic Design for five years in Sydney and Melbourne, winning the top pass award each year. Work experience came from ABC Television, freelance and a semester with the Division of Botany in New Guinea. Here one great adventure was exploring the highlands armed with his new Nikon SLR camera. After graduation Rob was headhunted to come to New Zealand as an Advertising Art Director, working with clients on television, print, 3D, packaging and display, his work winning CLIO (New York) and AXIS awards (New Zealand). One of his stamp design commissions for New Zealand Post won the Robert Stolz Trophy in London.
Many of his designs in New Zealand were high profile, including the logo for the 1990 Commonwealth Games, and the exterior of the new Devonport harbour ferry. Rob then joined MIT as a Design Lecturer in their new School of Art and Design. Six years later, he joined Senior College. Rob maintains contact with designers in the UK, Germany, Australia and China.
Gillian Haddon
Geography, TSS, C&S Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
The AUT International Foundation Certificate
Gillian teaches Geography and Tertiary Studies Skills and brings with her a long background in working for the education department of a number of government agencies. Gillian has been responsible for the management of externally funded projects and developing strategies to transform secondary learning in the UK. This included bidding for and negotiating funds, managing resources and large budgets in excess of $20 million. She also led on the development of a quality assurance monitoring framework (QA) for vocational programmes. Gillian moved to NZ in 2010, after visiting NZ on a worldwide trip in 2009.
Gillian holds a BA (Hons) degree in geography from the University of Manchester, UK, and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning from the University of Canterbury, NZ. She is an active member of her local gym and enjoys travelling.
David Jessop
 Mathematics Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
David joined NZIC in January 2002 after teaching in the UK for 14 years at a secondary school in Barnet, where he had been deputy head of faculty, teacher responsible for relief and examinations officer. David taught at NZIC until taking up a position at ACG Parnell College and was head of faculty there for two years. While at Parnell he taught both senior and junior colleges and also taught some of the NZIC classes at the Parnell site. He moved to Senior College an April 2010 and has taught the CIE examinations to all levels. During the last two years, David has taught several classes at NZIC Queen St and is now preparing the Post students for their final examination in June 2011. David has a BSc Mathematics major form London. David enjoys teaching at ACG and working with students who are highly motivated.
Christina Jowett
English (EAP) Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Curriculum Development
Christina joined ACG NZIC in 2011 as a teacher and curriculum development writer. She has worked as a teacher and senior manager in secondary schools, universities, and for international education providers in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Mexico, the USA, and throughout Asia and the Pacific. She has also worked as an education consultant for UNESCO in teacher training and resource development and the University of Ballarat in curriculum design and development.
Christina's qualifications include a Master of Arts (Hons) University of Auckland, Bachelor of Arts University of Auckland, and a Diploma of Teaching and Diploma of Education (Auckland College of Education). She was the beneficiary of a University of Auckland Study Award in 1992. Her teaching subjects are English, economics and history. Additional qualifications include SAI Lead Auditor (Management Systems Auditing, Workplace Teams; Conflict Resolution and Negotiation, Quality Management & Assurance; Management Systems), which she has used to manage quality assurance to university level, covering all aspects of quality system audits, performance analysis, development implementation and compliance.
Christina enjoys teaching and being part of a challenging and dynamic organisation, which has a strong commitment to excellence and innovation in teaching and learning. Her interests are reading, classical music and keeping fit, as well as travel, sailing and scuba diving with family and friends.
Paul Le Cornec
English (EAP) Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Paul teaches EAP. He has worked in the role for NZIC from 2002 to 2005 and then from 2008 until the present.
Paul has taught in a variety of schools in the Auckland region since 1980. He holds an Advanced Diploma of Teaching from the University of Auckland, a CELTA and a Diploma of Information Technology.
Carol Lilburn
English (EAP) Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
After graduating from Palmerston North Teachers College in 1971, Carol spent her first three years teaching as a Primary School teacher in Taupo. She then decided she preferred teaching older students, so with her specialised subjects in physical education and geography Carol moved into the secondary area, gaining her secondary teaching qualification in 1989. For the next 16 years, she taught mainly Physical Education at both Tauponui-a-tia College in Taupo, then Selwyn College in Auckland.
After many years of being a physical education instructor, school coach, regional coach and qualified referee of representative teams of volleyball, netball and basketball, and regional instructor and examiner of Life Saving, she decided it was time for a change in career paths. In 1995, she retrained and gained the National Diploma in TESOL and her Higher Teachers Certificate. Since then she has been teaching English to international students. After gaining experience and qualifications teaching English with adults at night classes, as well as in local secondary schools she moved to Sydney for 3 years. There she gained her Australian teacher's certificate and taught English, ESL and Literacy at Peter Board and Granville Boys High School. She was also responsible for training teachers in the literacy component of the nationwide literacy policy being introduced in NSW at that time.
Family commitments brought her back to Auckland where she has been teaching EAP and IELTS classes at NZIC since 2001. In 2001 she gained her IELTS examiner qualification and was an examiner for eight years. She thoroughly enjoys teaching EAP and IELTS courses to her students.
Frank Liu
Chemistry Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Frank arrived in New Zealand from China 14 years ago. He has taught at ACG since January 1999, first at ACG Senior College and from 2000 at ACG New Zealand International City Campus. He teaches Chemistry and Calculus in the University of Auckland Foundation Studies Programme, including Cambridge IGCSE/AS/A2/Chemistry and Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics.
Frank graduated from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China with a double major Bachelor Degree in Chemical Engineering and Economics. Before coming to New Zealand, Frank was employed for six years by Shanghai Mitsubishi Elevator Co., Ltd in Shanghai, China.
Frank enjoys watching a variety of sports either at the event or on television.
May Loh
English (EAP) Teacher; Faculty Coordinator (English)
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
May came to New Zealand as a foreign student from Malaysia and graduated from the University of Auckland with a Master of Arts degree (First Class Honours).
May returned to Malaysia where she completed a postgraduate diploma in TESL teaching at the University of Malaya. May was seconded to teach at the Anglo-Chinese Boys High School in Klang, Selangor, and was there for 5 years teaching Year 11 to 13 English and English Literature. In 1985, May and her family returned to live permanently in New Zealand. Her first teaching position in New Zealand was at Rangitoto College in Mairangi Bay, where she set up the ESOL department. Following that, she was appointed to a teaching job at ACG New Zealand International College in 1996. While teaching at NZIC, May also worked as an IELTS examiner with UNITEC for a period of 6 years. May's current responsibilities, as Curriculum Coordinator of the EAP Faculty, include setting up of the University of Auckland Foundation EAP Programme, preparation of teaching materials and overseeing the delivery of the course.
The highlights of teaching at NZIC are the good times spent teaching and learning with the students from various cultures and the opportunity to create and use materials to enhance learning.
Min Luo
Statistics and Calculus Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Min teaches Mathematics and holds a Bachelor Degree in Science and Major in Mathematics. She has fourteen years of teaching experience in China, mostly at tertiary level. Min immigrated to New Zealand in 1996 with her family, learned English and then gained a Post Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching from the University of Auckland. She has taught Calculus and Statistics at ACG NZIC in the University of Auckland Foundation Program as well as NCEA Mathematics at a state school since 2002.
Min enjoys reading and listening to music. She used to play volleyball, competitively, as well as badminton and basketball. Min now enjoys watching sports matches.
Stephen Matheson
Physics Teacher; Faculty Coordinator (Sciences)
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Stephen teaches Physics and has been with NZIC since 2000. Prior to this he taught at Auckland Grammar School for a decade. After finishing high school, Stephen completed a Fitting and Turning apprenticeship while working for an agricultural engineering company and studied to complete a New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering. He then studied Physics and Mathematics at Canterbury University – specialising in Geophysics.
Stephen was born in 1960 in Wellington and then moved to Tokyo, Japan, at the age of nine. He attended an international school and graduated in 1978 after completing his International Baccalaureate studies. He was fortunate as a teenager to visit a wide range of countries, including India, Nepal, Indonesia, and many Pacific Island countries.
As a high school student Stephen was a keen sportsperson and excelled at Cross Country and Athletics. He has continued to keep fit over the years completing iconic multisport events such as 'Ironman' and the 'Coast to Coast'. Stephen and his wife Karen enjoy redecorating houses and have done so over 15 years. They have two sons and two beautiful grand-daughters.
Heather-Iona McKenzie
English (EAP) Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Heather first taught in Auckland. She graduated with a Teaching Diploma, having taken a special Interest in sociology and social anthropology at Waikato Faculty of Education. Heather's career has taken her from Auckland to Whangarei where she was appointed the Resource Teacher of Reading (Reading Advisor) for the area, while studying under Dr Marie Clay and her literacy techniques. She then moved to Hong Kong where she lived for 17 years. Initially, Heather studied and taught at The British Council HK, teaching with The English Schools Foundation, after which she taught for 12 years at the French International School "Victor Segalen", Hong Kong. She organised annual overseas trips for students, as part of the curriculum. The curriculum was based on the Cambridge system and International Baccalaureate.
Heather returned to New Zealand in 2004. It was important for her to work with International students, so ACG was the perfect choice. In 2007, Heather graduated with a Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration (AUT); specialising in IT, ICT & eCommerce.
Heather enjoys sports and has been a champion marathon runner, and played squash and tennis competitively. She sailed at The Royal HK Yacht Club and represented them in their Ladies teams internationally. Now, in New Zealand, she goes to the gym and plays tennis to keep fit.
Dave Meur
Biology Teacher, Dean
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Dave is a Dean and teaches Biology at NZIC and Senior College. He started teaching in the UK, moved to Stockholm, Sweden, in 2003 where he taught for 7 years. Dave migrated to New Zealand in 2010 and began working for ACG in 2011.
He studied Ecology at the University of Dundee before completing a Science PGCE in 1996.
During his 16 year teaching career he has taught a wide range of subjects - Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Computer studies. In addition, he has worked as a Head of Year, Head of Department and Academic Coordinator. Dave is currently a Biology marker for the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Dave is a strong supporter of extra-curricular activities. He has coached football teams, organised Duke of Edinburgh silver awards and directed a number of school productions. Last year he helped organise the ACG concert "Times Like These" and looks forward to being involved in future productions.
Dave is a big sports fan and a proud supporter of Ipswich Town Football Club, although he would not be surprised if you haven't heard of them! He also loves rugby, and fully enjoyed going to the 2011 World Cup final. He claims he was the most relaxed supporter in the crowd and that "the Kiwis were too nervous to enjoy the game". Dave plays Innebandy and Badminton to keep fit. Dave's other passions are computer games and science fiction. He is always more than happy to discuss Skyrim (or whatever the latest PS3 release happens to be) and debate the big question - whether Kirk or Picard was the best captain of the Enterprise!
Marilyn Miller
Chemistry Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Marilyn teaches one class of February Foundation Chemistry at NZIC, teaching three other Chemistry classes at ACG Senior College.
She is a graduate of the University of Auckland and Auckland Secondary Teachers College. As well teaching, she has worked as a laboratory technologist and as an account manager in a computer company supplying computers to educational institutions.
She enjoys walking her dogs, gardening and is a member of the Greater Auckland Chorus.
Jinie Naidoo
English (EAP) Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Jinie, who is originally from Mauritius, teaches EAP (English for Academic Purposes) in the University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies Programme. Jinie has been with ACG (Academic Colleges Group) since 2000.
With a background of teaching English (Cambridge examination) in Mauritius, Jinie has consolidated her wide experience by becoming an IELTS examiner in New Zealand. Over the years she has been a Head of Faculty (Mauritius), Dean and Curriculum Co-ordinator at ACG between 2000 and 2003.
Jinie Naidoo has a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Delhi University, a Post Graduate Certificate in Education from the Mauritius Institute of Education, a Diploma in TESSOL (Teaching English in Schools to Speakers of Other Languages) from The Teacher's College, now part of The University of Auckland.
Jinie has two children. Her young son completed his PhD in 2011 and is now an Associate Professor and Dean at Curtin University in Perth. Her daughter is starting in the teaching profession this year. Jinie likes gardening and reading. She also enjoys going on long walks with her husband, who is also a teacher.
Sue Noble
Statistics and Calculus Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
After graduating with a degree majoring in Mathematics and English at the University of Natal in South Africa, Sue taught Mathematics for a number of years at two secondary schools, taking time off from teaching while her children were young. Prior to moving to New Zealand in 1994, she returned to University for a year to complete a post graduate University Diploma in Education. Sue was fortunate to have arrived in New Zealand in the months prior to the opening of Senior College and was employed by Dawn Jones and John Graham to teach in this exciting new venture. She has worked for ACG since the opening of this school in central Auckland in 1995.
In February 1999, the first University of Auckland Foundation Programme was offered with eight students in the initial intake. Seven of the eight students studied Mathematics with Calculus with Sue. Her enjoyment of teaching Mathematics to international students led her to choose to move with NZIC when it shifted from the original central city premises which are still occupied by Senior College.
During the past sixteen years at ACG, she has held the positions of Dean of Foundation Studies and Mathematics Faculty Coordinator at Senior College, NZIC and Parnell College. In 2008, an award of a NZ Mathematics, Science and Technology Teacher Fellowship enabled Sue to spend a year co-hosted by the University of Auckland Mathematics Department and the UNITEC Landscape Architecture Department. She found this to be a most enjoyable and enriching experience. Sue considers herself very fortunate to be able to combine her love of language with her passion for Mathematics in her current position teaching Mathematics in The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies.
Gary Osborne
Economics and Accounting Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Gary Osborne teaches Economics at NZIC. He has held numerous teaching and management positions at a number of Tertiary Educational and Business Institutions both here and overseas. He has also been an active member of a number of professional organisations and has a very keen interest in business. He has been a business advisor and mentor for a number of business enterprises and in this role has a specific interest in effective management. Working as an advisor to business and in his role as an educationalist has seen him also develop, write and present various programmes and courses.
His relaxation interests are very much in the field of outdoor activities which sees him and his family enjoying camping, 4x4 adventures and travel.
Anthony Power
Statistics and Calculus Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Blackboard oversight
Anthony gained a Master's Degree with honours at Auckland University after completing the Bachelor of Science degree with a double major in pure and applied mathematics. After gaining a Teaching Diploma, Anthony has taught at a variety of schools in Auckland. Before starting at ACG, he was Head of Mathematics at Diocesan School for Girls. Anthony joined ACG in 2010 at NZIC in Parnell and moved to the Queen Street campus during 2010 where he enjoys working with the International students.
Anthony has taught Calculus and Statistics under the University Bursary qualification and also the NCEA programme. He has taken scholarship students at different schools and two of his students have been the top student in New Zealand for Scholarship Calculus. He has been a marker for the NZEST Scholarship Calculus examination. Anthony has also taught the International Baccalaureate Higher Level course in New Zealand. Anthony was Head of Computing for a time at Rosehill College and developed the senior course there. He has been involved in timetabling at most schools he has worked in and this is a particular interest of his.
Nicole Roper
Statistics and Calculus Teacher; Faculty Coordinator (Mathematics)
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Nicky is a South African by birth and a New Zealander by choice. She has over thirty years teaching experience in domestic as well as International schools. She is an ordained priest in the Anglican Church, mother to three and grandmother to five.
Nicole holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree with majors in Mathematics and English, a Higher Diploma in Education and is completing a Bachelor of Theology. She was awarded a Royal Society Teaching Fellowship in 2001 at the University of Auckland during which time she researched the mathematics behind applications with social interest. Nicole enjoys reading, travelling and gardening.
Annette Scully
Accounting Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Annette teaches accounting and brings with her a wide range of experience to teaching students from differing backgrounds and levels of understanding of accounting principles and concepts. After the recent earthquakes in Christchurch, she relocated to Auckland at the end of 2011.
Prior to teaching, Annette worked in the financial industry. Within the education sector she has undertaken a range of teaching and leadership positions in commerce, careers and academic student management. As HOD commerce her passion for exploring educational pedagogy and study skills helped facilitate the learning of all students including scholarship candidates. In 2008, one of her students was placed first in New Zealand in scholarship accounting. She is reflective in her practices and provides strategies for success in accounting and students' wider studies.
Annette holds a Bachelor of Education degree and Diploma in Teaching from the University of Canterbury. She is a keen supporter and participant of all sports and ran the Kepler Track in 1990 (67 km). Annette, presently living on the North Shore, enjoys walking on the many beaches with her husband and dog, cycling and exploring new spots in their motorhome.
Rose Simento
Biology Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Rose was born in Nigeria, West Africa, where she completed her high school education (Cambridge "O" Levels). She has extensively travelled to many parts of Europe, Canada and America. She returned to India to complete her university qualifications where she gained a Bachelor in Science Degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science and Zoology. Her passion for science led her to attain a Master of Environmental Science.
Rose was appointed a Lecturer in Environmental Science at St Joseph's College, Bangalore - a Jesuit institution affiliated to Bangalore University. During her six and half years as a University lecturer she was an examiner and marker. Rose was also involved with St Joseph's College Environmental Club which conducted annual environmental programmes for local high schools and public.
Moving to New Zealand in 1996 with her family, Rose completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary). She taught at a few schools before securing a position in Market research as a CATI computer programmer. Within a year she gained further qualifications in SPSS - (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, a computer application that provides statistical analysis of data) and became IT Manager for the company. She left market research to take up a teaching position at Macleans College Howick where she taught senior biology and junior science.
Rose joined ACG New Zealand International College in 2003 as a Biology and Chemistry teacher. As well as looking after the Biology Department, she is actively involved with many co-curricular activities which include the Christian and singing groups, and the cooking and movie clubs. She relates well to people from different countries. Rose enjoys spending time with her students and is passionate about teaching science.
Andrew Stafford
Mathematics Teacher
The University of Auckland Foundation Studies
Andrew teaches Calculus and Statistics to February Foundation studies students at NZIC. He also teaches at Senior College. Andrew has a Mathematics degree from Canterbury University and taught in Christchurch before moving to Auckland. He is now an experienced Mathematics teacher who has taught at a number of Auckland schools and at Brentwood School in the UK.
Guy Steward
English (EAP) Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Guy was born in Auckland and gained his Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in music, at the University of Auckland. He has an LTCL Diploma in Music Education and English teaching certificates, including the TEFLA certificate. His teaching background is in both English and Music, and he has taught in sole charge positions in music departments in secondary schools. He has taught both subjects at Auckland Grammar School, Rangitikei College, and Dilworth College, and at a number of English Language schools in Auckland. He is a registered music teacher, plays piano and guitar, and tutors privately as well. He also holds a Bachelor in Theology, which is another of his interests. Guy teaches English for Academic Purposes at NZIC.
Aida Tomich
Economics Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Aida has a Commerce degree from the University of Belgrade, Yugoslavia. From 1975 to 1993 she worked as economic advisor in the Parliament of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Aida came to New Zealand in 1994. In New Zealand she completed a Diploma of Teaching, Secondary (Auckland College of Education) and Diploma in Accounting and Finance (University of Auckland). Aida taught senior Economics at Takapuna Grammar, Lynfield College and Avondale College.
Aida joined ACG NZIC in 2001 and has been teaching both CFS and CIE programmes. In her free time Aida enjoys sailing, fishing, walking and reading.
Benny van der Griend
Statistics and Calulus Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Benny teaches mathematics to Foundation students at ACG City Campus.
He was born in Holland but has lived most of his life in New Zealand and attended St. Peters College and Auckland University obtaining a BSc in Mathematics in 1981. He has been with New Zealand International College since January 2003 after having taught at Rangitoto College for 4 years, and prior to that, Westlake Boys High School.
Benny van der Griend brings a wealth of experience to ACG having also taught SMP and Cambridge O Levels in London and Cambridge courses and the International Baccalaureate at 'The Nederlands Lyceum International School, Den Haag where he was Head of Department. Benny has also taught Computing.
Benny has represented New Zealand in Cycling at the World Championships, Oceania Games, and in various countries. He has competed in Italy and Holland, each for 2 years, riding in prominent sponsored teams. With his cycling experience, he has coached up to 10 teams at schools where he has taught.
Benny is also interested in dancing and has taught at and owned a number of Ceroc Dance studios. His recent interests are competing in triathlons, cycling and dancing, with a special focus in salsa, ballroom and ceroc dance forms.
Loretta Verry
Statistics and Mathematics Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
The AUT International Foundation Certificate
Loretta was born and educated in Auckland and trained as a Physical Education and Mathematics teacher at Auckland Secondary Teachers' College in the 1970s. She completed her Bachelor of Arts at Auckland University with a Statistics major. After two years of teaching Loretta ventured overseas, travelling and working as a supply teacher in London. On her return to New Zealand, she worked for a Building Society and as a Real Estate agent before eventually returning to teaching. She has taught at a number of Auckland schools and as part of her Physical Education roles, she co-ordinated and coached many sports teams and played many sports herself.
Loretta moved more towards Mathematics teaching in the late 1980s' and was a National Examination marker (School Certificate Mathematics – Year 11) for 6 years until 1994. In 1997 she took up her first teaching position at ACG teaching Mathematics at Senior College, again majoring in Statistics. In 2001 she taught her first Auckland University Foundation Studies course at NZIC (Statistics and Calculus), and she has continued to work part time at NZIC and Norton Colleges, taking time out to have her two children. Having travelled to many parts of the world, Loretta enjoys the variety of teaching foreign students.
Simon Webster
Statistics and Calculus Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
The AUT International Foundation Certificate
Born in New Zealand, Simon completed his Bachelor of Science degree at The University of Auckland in the late 1980s. Simon had work experience in Landscape Gardening and Boat Building before taking a more academic turn in his career, teaching Mathematics. Following the Diploma in Teaching course at the Auckland College of Education, Simon's first teaching position was at Massey High School in 1990. From there, Simon took a Position of Responsibility in the Mathematics Department at Westlake Girls High School for seven years.
Simon joined ACG Senior College of New Zealand in 2001. Through being timetabled with the odd class from the newly formed New Zealand International College he came to enjoy the added dimension of teaching Mathematics with a language emphasis. Simon took up a position with NZIC in a fulltime capacity and over the last decade has thoroughly enjoyed the classroom experience.
Simon's interests include ocean sailing and he has sailed his own boat extensively throughout the Pacific Ocean over the last decade, whilst taking leave from NZIC.
Debbie Williams
Accounting Teacher; Assistant Faculty Coordinator (Accounting)
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
The AUT International Foundation Certificate
Debbie began her career in the private sector, gaining her CA (Chartered Accountant) membership of NZICA in 1990. She studied for her Teacher's Diploma in 1992, and taught at Baradene College of the Sacred Heart for nine years, before joining ACG in 2002. She has also taught Small Business Accounting to adult students for more than ten years. Debbie's main teaching subject is Accounting, but she has also taught Economics, ICT, TIM, and Enterprise Studies. While at Baradene she ran the Young Enterprise Scheme and was the Practicum Co-ordinator for Student Teachers. During her time at ACG she has taught University Foundation programmes for international students, for La Trobe University in Melbourne, the University of Auckland and Auckland University of Technology, as well as IGCSE and AS for the CIE curriculum. It has been a privilege to teach the international students and Debbie has appreciated being involved in programmes that deliver such high quality outcomes for the students.
Debbie's commitment to education extends to voluntary roles as the Auckland Branch Chair for NZCETA and the Secondary Schools' Representative on the Education Committee for NZICA. Debbie's teaching qualifications are CA Dip Tchg and TDipWP.
Sophie Zheng
English (EAP) Teacher
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies
Sophie started her teaching career as a young assistant teacher at Xiamen University in China in 1983 after graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in English. Having a great passion in teaching English as a second language, she obtained a Certificate of English Language Teaching to Adults in New Zealand and a Master of Arts in Language Teaching and Learning at the University of Auckland. She has totally enjoyed her teaching experience both at university and at college because her students keep her young. Sophie has been ranked as one of the top-rating teaching staff at NZIC.
Being a child-lover, Sophie dreamed of having a family of more than one child. That is why she ended up in New Zealand! She immigrated to New Zealand with her husband and young son in 1993 and her dream was realised when her daughter was born in 1994! She is a very happy mother of two, and the envy of all her peers in China who are allowed to have one child only. In her spare time, Sophie enjoys growing vegetables, gardening, reading, walking her adorable dog, and most importantly, going on cruise holidays! Her next two most important cruises will be the Antarctica and Alaska. Sophie loves New Zealand, so much so that she intends to spend the rest of her life in her host country.
Karen Holland
Administration
Karen joined ACG New Zealand International College as Receptionist and the Principal's Personal Assistant in 2010. She has many years of experience in Office Administration in a wide variety of Secretarial and PA roles. Prior to joining ACG, Karen spent 9 years as the Administration Assistant to the Director and Dean of International Students at one of West Auckland's Secondary Schools.
In my role as Receptionist for ACG New Zealand International College, I enjoy assisting students from a variety of different cultural backgrounds with general enquiries and greeting and welcoming visitors to the City Campus. As well as providing personal assistant duties for the Principal and Campus Deputy Principals, I provide administrative support to the teaching staff when required.
Terri Lee
Administration
Terri Lee was employed at ACG January 2009. Her work included double roles as an attendance officer and main receptionist. She has experience in recruiting international students, supporting their requests and answering their enquiries, as well as experience in marketing. She has also worked as an agent in a local educational agency.
With her experience and knowledge in international education, she has been able to work with students and parents, helping them to achieve their educational and university entrance goals.
In 2012, Terri Lee's main role at ACG is to monitor the students' attendance record closely, meet parents and assist the Principal and Deputy Principals and inform parents and their children of attendance issues and concerns. She also provides a wide range of student service in relate to administration, for example, documentation for current and former students and creating enrolment records for the Ministry of Education.
As a Korean speaker, Terri Lee provides translation and interpretation for the Marketing Department and ACG campuses as well as for Korean students within the campus.
Terri Lee has studied first year law at a university in Korea, and studied Marketing at AUT.
Jorinde Ottaway
Administration
In my role as Student Learning Centre Manager, my main duties include management of Library resources, ID card production, supplying stationery for the English School, supervision and tutoring assistance for students, Wi-Fi connection, photocopying/laminating support, First Aid help, Student Education Counselling, orientation and exam supervision and general reception enquiries.
I have an extensive background in performing arts and run Music and Dance sessions for students to take part in. I also enjoy assisting students with preparing musical items for Graduation ceremonies.
I attended University of Auckland and gained a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, French, Russian, Spanish and Education. I am a qualified teacher and have 12 years teaching experience in public high schools and primary schools. I also have several years work experience in marketing and office administration. My ability to speak several languages and my past work experience equip me with a highly suitable background for providing a range of helpful services to ACG staff and students.
Stephen Parker
Property Officer
Stephen joined us as a property officer responsible for the ACG City Campus and Senior College.
Stephen came from the UK Media industry with a strong background in Senior Management including Operational, Financial, Commercial, Quality Control and Human Resources. Stephen has a solid commercial background and was responsible for many significant change processes in a complex and highly competitive Market. This involved promoting business development throughout Europe and Australasia.
Stephen is a keen Crystal Palace FC supporter and has a few Marathons to his credit.
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