Saira Boyle brings over 25 years of educational leadership experience to her role as Founding Principal of Aotearoa Infinite Academy. Beginning her teaching career in the United Kingdom, Saira quickly advanced through leadership positions before settling with her family in New Zealand. Her career spans both secondary and primary education, including pioneering roles in the establishment of new schools such as Alfriston College and Sancta Maria College, where she served as Head of Faculty and Dean. Saira later became Principal of St Mary’s Ellerslie and subsequently led Willowbank School, one of Auckland’s largest primary schools. In 2022, she transitioned to online education as Principal of Mt Hobson Academy, an experience that now uniquely positions her to lead Aotearoa Infinite Academy with vision, innovation, and deep educational expertise.
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Sian Durbin brings a distinctive blend of leadership, scientific expertise, and international experience to her role as Deputy Principal of Aotearoa Infinite Academy. Originally from Wales, Sian holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Chemistry, a Postgraduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching, and a Master’s in International Business. Her career spans both classroom teaching and faculty leadership across New Zealand and abroad. Before joining Aotearoa Infinite Academy, Sian served as Head of Chemistry at Macleans College and later as a Faculty Leader at Kerikeri High School, where she fostered collaborative teaching practices and supported student achievement across the sciences. Sian is passionate about educational innovation and empowering students to see the connections between science, creativity, and global citizenship. Her strong academic background and commitment to excellence make her a key contributor to Aotearoa Infinite Academy’s vision of high-quality learning for all students.
Rachel McClure brings over twenty years of experience in education and information management to her role as Operations Manager at Aotearoa Infinite Academy. She combines a wealth of organisational expertise with a genuine commitment to manaakitanga, which fosters a culture of care, collaboration, and high performance. Known for her strong communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage complex systems effectively, Rachel is dedicated to creating an environment where both staff and students can achieve their goals. She holds a Master of Information Studies (with Merit) from Victoria University of Wellington, along with qualifications in Visual Arts and Secondary Teaching. Rachel’s professional background spans the library and information sectors as well as teaching and departmental leadership roles across New Zealand and abroad. Her depth of experience and people-centred approach make her an invaluable member of the Aotearoa Infinite Academy leadership team.
David Vesseur brings over 14 years of teaching and pastoral leadership experience to his role as Dean at Aotearoa Infinite Academy. He has taught at some of New Zealand’s most respected educational institutions, including Saint Kentigern College and St Peter’s Cambridge. Over the course of his career, David has held a range of key leadership positions, from Teacher in Charge of Junior English to Head of Department and multiple Dean roles, including Junior Dean, Senior Dean, and Lead Dean, culminating in his position as Head of Year 12 at St Peter’s Cambridge. David has extensive experience developing and delivering English and Media Studies across qualification frameworks such as NCEA, International Baccalaureate, and Cambridge. He played a central role in shaping his school’s Wellbeing Programme and was elected by staff to represent them on the Board of Trustees for five consecutive years. Known for his genuine passion for education and his ability to build strong, trusting relationships with students, families, and staff, David embodies the values of collaboration and care that define AIA. His leadership ensures that every learner is supported to thrive, academically, personally, and socially.
Kate Thompson is a senior leader in secondary education, an accomplished English teacher, and a dedicated pastoral care advocate. She is known for her empathetic, student-centred approach and her commitment to helping young people thrive both academically and personally. Kate has taught across a variety of school settings in New Zealand, from high-performing academic environments such as Macleans College to smaller, community-based schools, including an area school in Otago, where she served as Head of Department. These diverse experiences have shaped her inclusive educational philosophy and her belief in meeting students where they are, regardless of background or ability. Over the past four years, Kate has worked in online education with Crimson Global Academy, teaching Literature and serving as Pastoral Dean and House Leader. Her leadership reflects her unwavering focus on connection, wellbeing, and student voice, values that continue to guide her work at Aotearoa Infinite Academy.
Corrie is a passionate and dedicated education professional with 24 years of teaching experience, including leadership roles as an Across School Teacher and Learning Leader. She brings deep expertise in curriculum design and implementation, continually working to make learning meaningful, engaging, and accessible for every student. Corrie has a strong history of building collaborative, multidisciplinary teaching teams and has led assessment practices that genuinely support learning, including learner journals and writing rubrics aligned with the Literacy Learning Progressions. Relationships sit at the centre of Corrie’s practice. She creates warm, whānau-centred environments where students feel safe, valued, and supported, while also maintaining clear expectations for achievement and behaviour. Her high-trust approach encourages both students and colleagues to grow, take risks, and thrive. A reflective practitioner with a strong work ethic, Corrie is committed to improving outcomes for rangatahi. She draws on culturally responsive pedagogy, community connections, and a genuine love of learning to ensure young people feel seen, capable, and inspired.
Stefanie Williamson brings over 15 years of experience in therapeutic counselling and student wellbeing to her role. A Registered Social Worker with a current practising certificate, she holds a National Diploma in Social Work, a Diploma in Integrative Psychology (Hakomi). She is a graduate of Hakomi Body Integrated Psychotherapy. Her additional professional training includes Interactive Drawing Therapy, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, and Non-violent Communication (NVC). Over the past 15 years, Stefanie has worked across a wide range of settings, including residential therapeutic communities, crisis support centres, rehabilitation services, and secondary schools. From 2019 to 2024, she served as Wellbeing Consultant and Counsellor at an independent co-educational boarding school and currently works as a School Counsellor at a co-educational secondary school, alongside her private practice. Passionate about empowering adolescents and families navigating trauma, she combines empathy, professionalism, and a deep respect for human resilience. Based in Central Hawke’s Bay, she brings the healing presence of nature and animals into her therapeutic work, supporting every AIA student to thrive.
Dr Alvin Chand brings extensive experience in science education, school leadership, and curriculum innovation across New Zealand and Australia. He holds a PhD in Science Education and a Master of Science with First Class Honours from the University of Waikato, where his research focused on culturally responsive pedagogy and Pacific education, resulting in several published works. Currently based in Melbourne, Dr Chand teaches Senior Physics at Cranbourne East Secondary College, following leadership roles as Deputy Principal at Avondale College and Head of Faculty (Science) at James Cook High School in Auckland. He has led major initiatives in online and blended learning through platforms such as Google Classroom and iQualify, improving student engagement and achievement in virtual classrooms. Beyond teaching, Dr Chand has contributed nationally and regionally as an Executive Committee Member of the Oceania Comparative and International Education Society and as an External Moderator for the NZQA.
Georgina Robinson, originally from England, is an accomplished educational leader and English specialist with a dynamic career across New Zealand secondary schools. Since arriving in Aotearoa in 2004, she has held key leadership positions in some of the country’s most respected schools, beginning her New Zealand career at Macleans College in Auckland, where she led the large and high-achieving English department as Head of Department. In 2018, she relocated to the Bay of Islands to assume the same role at Kerikeri High School, where she remained for seven years. Most recently, Georgina worked as Deputy Principal at One School Global, gaining valuable experience in a progressive, technology-driven environment that champions self-directed, online learning. She has taught NCEA Levels 1–3, Scholarship English, and the Cambridge International Education syllabus, demonstrating expertise across Years 9–13 and diverse student cohorts. With a deep passion for literature, innovative pedagogy, and student empowerment, Georgina brings extensive curriculum leadership and a collaborative, solutions-focused mindset to Aotearoa Infinite Academy.
Steve Buckley brings over forty years of teaching experience to his role as Head of Mathematics at Aotearoa Infinite Academy. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences from the University of Bradford and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from Avery Hill College, London. Steve began his career in the United Kingdom, where he advanced through several teaching and leadership positions, specialising in Mathematics from Foundation to A Level and Further Mathematics. After emigrating to New Zealand, he became Head of Mathematics at Macleans College, where he guided many students to success in NZQA Scholarship Statistics and Calculus. Steve transitioned to online education with Crimson Global Academy, where he embraced the opportunities of digital learning. His wealth of experience and dedication to academic excellence now underpin his leadership of Aotearoa Infinite Academy’s Mathematics Faculty. In recognition of his long-standing contribution to Mathematics education, Steve was awarded Life Membership of the Auckland Mathematical Association in December 2024.
Sophie Bradley is an experienced Social Sciences educator with over 16 years of teaching in New Zealand and international schools, specializing in Geography and Environmental Sciences. She holds a Bachelor of Humanities in Archaeology and Geography from the University of Southampton and a PGCE in Geography, with expertise in geomorphology, GIS, and archaeological studies. A passionate geographer, Sophie brings creativity to curriculum design, particularly in climate change and sustainability education. She focuses on student-centred, inquiry-based, and project-based learning that links real-world applications with academic rigour. Skilled in building community and industry partnerships, performance assessment, and collaborative teamwork, she fosters learning environments grounded in relationships, empathy, and respect. Committed to global awareness, diversity, and inclusion, Sophie empowers young people to become engaged, compassionate citizens through experiential learning that develops critical thinking and curiosity about the world.
Emma Stoddart is an experienced and innovative science educator with expertise in curriculum planning, programme design, and assessment development. She brings programme management experience from Innovative Young Minds, where she coordinated nationwide online and residential programmes, managed stakeholder relationships, and developed a careers-focused learning management system. Emma is highly proficient in digital platforms, including CRMs and cloud-based tools, and has strong organisational and health and safety management skills. She recently completed a Master of Education at Victoria University of Wellington, with research on technology use, artificial intelligence, and professional learning design. Passionate about enhancing STEM opportunities, particularly for female students, Emma combines practical teaching experience with programme management expertise to deliver research-informed, technology-enhanced education that inspires and engages young people.
Yolande is an accomplished and passionate secondary mathematics teacher with over 25 years of experience across New Zealand schools, teaching from junior levels to NCEA Level 3 Statistics and Financial Literacy. She brings expertise as a former Mathletics educational writer, where she led international curriculum development for Years 7–10 and collaborated with global teams to deliver innovative digital learning resources. Yolande excels at identifying gaps in students’ learning and designing creative, student-centred approaches to bridge them. Her enthusiastic teaching style fosters strong relationships and encourages learners to embrace challenges. Highly organised with excellent time management, she combines deep mathematical knowledge with contemporary teaching theory and digital proficiency. An NZQA External Marker, Yolande is dedicated to empowering students to become confident, independent learners through lifelong learning and engagement.
Jennifer holds a Health Science degree and a Postgraduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching, graduating with Excellence and ranking in the top 10% of her cohort. She began her teaching career in North Island schools, teaching Chemistry, Biology, and General Science across multiple year levels, developing a strong understanding of curriculum pathways and student success. For the past four years, Jennifer has taught in online learning environments, earning a reputation for organisation, adaptability, and a student-centred approach. Her learners value the care, encouragement, and support she provides. Outside teaching, Jennifer excels in marathon running and multi-discipline equestrian competitions, demonstrating commitment, discipline, and perseverance. Passionate about student growth, she fosters environments where learners feel encouraged, challenged, and supported, while maintaining strong communication with families to ensure clarity, consistency, and shared progress.
Jo Ander is an accomplished educator with over two decades of experience across primary and secondary education, specialising in digital pedagogy, personalised learning, and culturally responsive practice. Since 2017, she has served as Specialist Classroom Teacher and PCT Co-ordinator at Whanganui High School, leading pedagogical coaching, teacher mentoring, and capability development. Jo has designed innovative blended learning programmes and led initiatives including Supported Learning and Pathways, Alternative Education for high-needs learners, and He Kahukura culturally responsive practices. She teaches senior Psychology at NCEA Levels 2–3, has extensive English teaching experience, and foundational primary teaching expertise. With a strong track record in assessment leadership, curriculum innovation, and creating engaging digital learning environments, she fosters student agency and wellbeing. Earlier, she acted as Deputy Principal at St Mary’s Primary School, demonstrating leadership and commitment to diverse learners.
Sean is a dedicated Australian-trained secondary teacher with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a Bachelor of Teaching (Secondary) from Deakin University. He has five years’ tutoring experience with OISEE, delivering individualised and group English instruction to students aged 8–20, creating tailored lesson plans, and building confidence through regular assessment and feedback. During his teaching placement, Sean delivered coursework in Shakespeare, poetry, modern fiction, and modern history (1850–1990), demonstrating strong subject knowledge in English and history. He brings a passion for connecting historical narratives to contemporary understanding and has developed pedagogical and communication skills through lesson design and public speaking. Relocating to New Zealand in 2020, Sean applies his expertise and enthusiasm to inspire secondary students and develop critical thinking and engagement in the classroom.
Richard is an experienced and adaptable educator specialising in Commerce, Business Studies, and Social Sciences, with expertise in online and blended learning for secondary students. He engages learners through hybrid models that combine Zoom instruction, classwork, feedback, and tutorial support, helping students achieve strong outcomes in NCEA Levels 1–3, with particular focus on intensive exam preparation. Richard has worked at New Plymouth Boys’ and Girls’ High Schools, developing innovative courses such as “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” and “The Business of Sport.” He combines strong subject knowledge with practical experience, making him effective in both face-to-face and remote learning environments. Known for making lessons highly practical, he incorporates real-world projects and entrepreneurial initiatives, encouraging creativity and engagement while fostering students’ business acumen and problem-solving skills.
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Amber Bell is an experienced Visual Arts educator with a strong record of revitalising arts programmes and fostering creativity, self-expression, and cultural connection in diverse student cohorts. She successfully re-established senior Painting as a thriving course and expanded Photography into a future-focused subject that embeds digital practice, visual storytelling, and career pathways. Previously Teacher in Charge of Visual Arts at Bishop Viard College, Amber increased student engagement, participation, and NCEA completion rates through a culturally responsive curriculum. She led initiatives like “Art Masters of March,” bringing professional artists into the classroom and improving external assessment outcomes. Skilled in student-centred, project-based learning, Amber designs experiences that enhance engagement, agency, and self-efficacy across junior and senior levels, inspiring learners to explore creativity and build confidence in their artistic abilities.
Allison Campbell is an experienced educational leader with over 30 years in secondary, tertiary, and vocational education, dedicated to empowering learners and driving organisational success. She has held Deputy Principal roles at Fairfield College and Edgecumbe College, and Deputy Campus Principal at NZMA, leading teams of 3 to 80+ staff. Allison also established strong foundations as Head of Department Music across multiple secondary schools, including Whakatane High School and Hamilton Girls’ High School, and has expertise in pastoral care as Dean. She holds a Master’s in Educational Administration and advanced qualifications in adult education and e-learning design, with proven success in supporting Māori and Pacific learners. Skilled in strategic planning, change management, restorative practices, and curriculum delivery, Allison combines teaching excellence with contemporary LMS and instructional design expertise to drive student achievement and innovation.
Loretta Goodhue is an experienced and empathetic educator with fourteen years of teaching across England and New Zealand, including significant experience as a SENCO at Paeroa College. She is committed to creating inclusive learning environments where every student feels seen, valued, and capable of success. Loretta designs and implements effective interventions and individualised learning plans, coordinates support services, and fosters strong relationships with students, whānau, and healthcare providers. Skilled at identifying at-risk learners, tracking progress, and implementing targeted strategies, she accelerates both achievement and wellbeing outcomes. Her collaborative leadership experience as Assistant Principal, Dean, and Kāhui Ako Leader includes building partnerships across school communities to ensure equitable learning opportunities. Known for leading with empathy, maintaining high expectations, and supporting students and staff through clear communication and strategic coordination, Loretta brings depth and dedication to specialised education services.
Year 11 follows the IGCSE curriculum. Years 12 and 13 follow NCEA. A Levels are not offered.
Yes. Live lectures are recorded, and students may watch the recordings later after making a plan with their Dean.
Live Lectures introduce key concepts and terminology for the week.
Group Classes are small, interactive sessions focused on discussion, application, and deeper learning.
Yes. All student onboarding will be conducted online.
Students may complete tasks on paper if they prefer. They can upload photos or scans of their work for feedback. We encourage all learning responses to be digital to enable swift feedback and feed forward to support student progress and achievement.
No. Additional teachers will be hired as needed to maintain small class sizes (approximately 20 students).
Students may take four subjects if that is the appropriate workload for them.
In all subjects students will be taught to their ability. Initially in Maths students will be in mixed groups and we will carry out standardised assessment early in the year and based on results we may focus class placements on the needs of students.
A laptop or desktop (Windows or Mac, <5 years old) with:
Intel i5 or equivalent processor
8GB RAM
256GB SSD
Webcam
Noise-cancelling headset
Optional: external monitor, stylus.
Zoom is used for live lessons. Infinite-Learn manages messaging, content, submissions, timetable, reports, and progress tracking.
Yes, students may contact teachers for guidance, clarification, or additional support.
Access depends on local availability. Infinite Academy supports coordination with these programs. After-school activities may be limited if the school day runs until 5 pm.
Subject selection typically follows recommended structures but may be flexible based on availability and student needs.
Yes, students can nominate a local school they feel comfortable with. That school will then invite external students for an induction and provide guidance on joining teams.
SENCO (Loretta G), who oversees individual learning support, along with form teachers and Deans, who provide guidance and monitor progress, and bookable tutorials with subject teachers, which offer one-on-one help, ensure that students receive the support they need.