Grant Watson
Grant WatsonPrincipal
Kia Ora. I am Grant Watson and the Principal at Upper Moutere School. I feel very lucky to be leading this school with the support of an extremely motivated, enthusiastic and hard working staff. I am also grateful to have the opportunity to work with such a positive and responsive group of children, who are well mannered and care for each other. The leadership our year 7 and 8 students take in our school impresses me greatly, I enjoy their enthusiasm, maturity and responsibility. We have been fortunate to have had to the opportunity to develop some collaborative learning spaces which has challenged us and provided a positive catalyst for developing how we provide teaching and learning opportunities in our school. You are very welcome to visit us and see our school in action.

Heidi Olykan
Heidi Olykan - Deputy Principal, Teacher Years 7 and 8 Marama - Currently on Sabbatical Term 3 2023
Kia ora koutou. I’m Heidi and I am fortunate to work with the amazing senior school students in Marama. Together with Maegan, we share a collaborative space and are blessed to facilitate and guide learning that is creative, challenging, supportive and engaging. The students at UMO never cease to amaze me with their empathy, compassion and kindness toward each other, particularly the senior students toward their younger peers. Such a great environment to work in!

Our Teaching Team Members

Rachael Whalley
Rachael Whalley Teacher of New Entrants & Year 1, Ramaroa iti & Acting DP
Hi I am Rachael and I feel privileged to be teaching at Upper Moutere school. I love the way the children come to school so full of enthusiasm, curiosity and a readiness to learn.

 

Jaki Van Dijk
Jaki Van DijkTeacher Year 2-3, Ramaroa iti
Hi I’m Jaki. For 2023 I will be leading the learning in Ramaroa nui with our Year 2&3 learners. I enjoy the rewards and challenges that teaching brings. I am really pleased to be a part of this school as we have a fantastically supportive and caring team.

 

Lauren Scott
Lauren ScottTeacher of Year 7-8 Marama, Terms 2 & 3
Kia ora. I am Lauren, it is a pleasure to be working in Marama with Maegan in Terms 2 & 3 2023,  while Heidi and Grant are on Sabbatical.

Toby Ammundsen
Toby AmmundsenTeacher of Year 4-6 Turama
Kia ora. I am working in Turama in 2023 with Maegan four mornings a week.

 

Cathy Ellis
Cathy EllisRelease Teacher
I am Cathy and my main role is to provide release time to the teachers here at Upper Moutere School, which means I have the privilege of teaching in all the learning spaces at our school .

Maegan Gardner
Maegan GardnerPart-time Teacher
I am Maegan, and I am working in Turama and Marama four mornings a week in 2023.

Our Teacher Aides

  • Bridget Druce
  • Olivia Damian
  • Yvette Watson-Cook

Office Administrator

Saree DicksonOffice Administrator

Our School Board

  • Andy Marr – Presiding Member
  • Iwao Fujji
  • Jane Penno
  • Andi Pannell
  • Heidi Olykan – Staff Representative
  • Grant Watson – Principal