Our team names represent the four winds each blowing from a different direction, Rāwhiti from the East, Uru from the West, Tokerau from the North and Tonga from the South.
Ngā Hau e Whā means the four winds, so staff members who have a role across the school make up this team.
Ākautautoko (Admin team)
Howard Young
Principal
Kia ora koutou, my name is Howard Young and it is my great privilege to be principal of Evans Bay Intermediate School since beginning here in July 2021. Over my career, I have worked in schools around Wellington and overseas teaching from Year 2 through to Year 8, including 7 years as a deputy principal. This experience as both a teacher and a leader across the primary and intermediate school sectors has given me a strong understanding of how children develop into adolescents.
Having the opportunity to work with the wonderful staff and students of EBIS is something I am grateful for as no two days are the same.
Outside of school, I love to spend time with family and friends. I am also a sports lover. Having grown up in Wellington I am a fan of the Lions, Hurricanes, Saints and Phoenix, while these days my own sporting pursuits are limited to social cricket and football.
Paul Chalk
Deputy Principal
Kia ora. Ever since college, I have known that I wanted to be a teacher. After completing my qualifications, I spent two years in the UK teaching Year 5 and 6. This was a challenge but confirmed the decision I had made. I returned to New Zealand and home, joining the EBIS team in 2018. I love teaching at the Intermediate level. There is a different connection that you can make with these students, and helping them to become the best version of themselves. I have a passion for Football and staying healthy. I also have a passion for writing and maintaining my well-being. These passions guide my teaching and the way I interact with those around me; colleagues, family, friends and students.
BA/GDip Tch
Rob Ngan Woo
SENCO / Specialist Teacher / Wellbeing
Talofa lava Ni hao, My name is Rob Ngan-Woo (or Matua Rob) and I am super privileged to be able to work here at EBIS.
I have taught in a range of schools and year groups around Wellington and I am hoping to use this knowledge and bits of wisdom to empower our EBIS students. I am fortunate enough to have a beautiful hoa-wahine who still likes me, and two ex-EBIS students who don't mind my dad jokes. I live in Maranui Lyall Bay and enjoy connecting with family, surfing, diving and supporting my children in their chosen sports. I support EBIS by doing SENCO role and I am also a part of the SPEC team where I teach Wellbeing. I look forward to getting to know your families and your amazing tamariki.
Lesssgoooooo EBIS! Kia ora e te whanau o Te Kura o te Akautangi, EBIS.
Team Rawhiti
Raymond Chave
Team Leader / Classroom Teacher / Room 2
Kia ora. Teaching and learning have always been a passion for me. As a 15 year old teenager, I knew that I wanted to be a teacher, and from there I started to assist with reading programmes across the road from my old high school. I have now been the in the education sector and teaching for 19 years and I enjoy building upon positive relationships to help develop students to become lifelong learners. I have a passion for teaching and a love for promoting reading, writing and project-based learning. I have a love affair with coffee, vinyl, books, and good cheese.
BTchLn/GDip Digital and Collaborative Learning
Laura Hayes
Classroom Teacher / Room 1
My name is Laura. I am 29 years old and have just relocated to Wellington from Cork in Ireland. I am very excited to be joining the EBIS team and look forward to the year ahead.
I have been teaching in Ireland for the past 3 years after completing my masters degree in education. I am passionate about working with young people and I feel privileged to have the opportunity to help them grow and develop as individuals.
Outside of teaching I also have a passion for sports/exercise. I was an Irish gymnast until the age of 17, I play Gaelic football, Camogie and have recently taken up a love for CrossFit. I like to throw my hand to all new sports and I believe that exercising the body is just as important as exercising the mind.
Ruby Dean
Classroom Teacher / Room 13
Tēnā koutou! Ko Ruby Dean tōku ingoa.
After completing my graduate diploma in primary teaching in 2022, I am stoked to be part of the team at EBIS to begin my teaching journey. During my professional placements, I found my time at an intermediate school extremely rewarding - I love the ideas, conversations and enthusiasm of the year 7/8 age group and am excited to continue supporting these students as they grow into passionate and exceptional individuals.
I am originally from Raumati and after studying media at the University of Otago and time working in Europe, I have happily settled by the beach in Wellington. In my free time, I can be found surfing or perched up at a local cafe with a good coffee.
Kerri Battersby
Classroom Teacher / Room 12
Kia ora! I have recently finished my Graduate Diploma which brought me to EBIS as a student teacher. I am excited to become a full-time part of the team this year. I love the community that surrounds the school and the energy that year 7 and 8 students bring to the classroom. I hope to support the development of strong and resilient learners through creating an inclusive and fun environment.
I am originally from Blenheim and moved to Wellington for my studies. I completed a degree in marine biology but decided I much prefer working with people than seaweed and krill. Having grown up in and around the water I love everything marine. I love to swim, dive, sail and surf.
BSc/GDip Tch
Team Tokerau
James Ruscoe
Team Leader / Classroom Teacher / Room 10
Kia ora koutou. Teaching our talented ākonga here at Evans Bay Intermediate is an absolute privilege. I completed my Masters of Teaching and Learning in 2017 and have been part of the EBIS team ever since. As an educator, I greatly admire the agency, passion, and persistence that Years 7 and 8 bring. With a background in theatre, I co-ordinate our school production, spotlighting the dramatic talent in our community. Outside school, I enjoy serenading my neighbours with the drums, falling down Wikipedia rabbit holes, and blue-shelling my friends/enemies in Mario Kart. BA/MTeach
Lauren McAuley
Classroom Teacher / Room 14
Kia ora, my name is Lauren McAuley. I grew up in Dunedin and completed my degree at the University of Otago. I am now heading into my fourth year of teaching, having spent my first three years teaching years 5 and 6 in Twizel. I enjoy teaching the upper primary age groups as students start to take greater risks and build their independence.
I enjoy playing sports, my favourite being basketball and I have an interest in all areas of the performing arts.
Jacob Pool
Classroom Teacher / Room 11
Kia ora. I completed my Masters in Teaching and Learning at Victoria University in 2020 and have been lucky enough to be working here at EBIS since. I love the atmosphere of this school, which has a special place in my heart having come here as a student myself. I really enjoy working with Year 7 and 8 students as I find learners at this age to be thoughtful and curious about the world around them and their emerging identity and place within it. I have a strong interest in the social sciences, particularly history, classics, politics and psychology. In my spare time I enjoy running, film photography, reading, connecting with nature, listening to music, and indulging my love for good, strong coffee.
BSc/MTeach
Camryn Coles
Classroom Teacher / Room 15
Kia ora koutou,
My name is Camryn Coles. I completed my Bachelor of Primary school Teaching at The University of Waikato in 2022. I am very passionate about teaching and providing students with new and fun learning opportunities. I have special skills in the arts and physical education that adds a creative element to my professional practice. I am very excited to teach years 7 & 8, I find intermediate ages to be enthusiastic and curious to learn. I am looking forward to helping students prepare for high school and the next chapters in their lives. Outside the classroom, you can find me dancing, listening to music, and competing in social sports teams.
Lily Thomas-Milne
Student Teacher /Room 10
Kia ora koutou. Ko Lily tōku ingoa.I will be joining Mr. Ruscoe in Room 10 this year as a student teacher on behalf of the Masters programme at Te Herenga Waka. I have always known that I wanted to be a kaiako, and I have been working with both tamariki and rangatahi - within many different sectors - for a while now. I am particularly interested in working with intermediate-aged tamariki, as it is during this transitional period where exploration and critical thinking unite and where an incredible amount of growth occurs. I also have a special interest in special education, after working as a TA in a small community of students with complex educational needs. I am particularly passionate about the creative arts, writing & reading, and physical education. In my spare time, I enjoy drawing, sewing various items of clothing (and rarely finishing a single one), hiking, bouldering, running, and watching films.
Team Uru
Georgia Ryan
Team Leader
Kia ora koutou, My name is Georgia Ryan. I finished my Bachelor of Communications in 2013 and then went on to complete a Graduate Diploma of Teaching in 2016. Over my career, I have worked in schools in both Wellington and Tauranga with experience teaching Years 2-8.
I embrace teaching as an opportunity to inspire, empower, and to enhance student's learning as a transformative experience where they become more personally engaged with their education and perceive the topics to be directly relevant to their own lives
In my downtime I enjoy getting outdoors; surfing, snowboarding and mountain biking. I am also an animal lover and have a dog called Burrito.
BC/GDip Tch
Suzanne Kadlec
Classroom Teacher / Room 4
Kia ora koutou. I love EBIS and all the opportunities it provides. I enjoy Intermediate aged students with their sense of humour, justice, and passion for learning. I love art, culture, and dance, having encouraged collaborations with EBIS and Royal New Zealand Ballet Educators. I run the anti-bullying club, dance club, Minecraft club, Rubix cube club, care club, rainbow club and a variety of cultural events. I also run fundraising initiatives for various charities and events such as the 40hr Challenge (World Vision) and Wig Wednesday (Cancer Society). My students are all agentic learners who go out into the world and make positive change. I adore teaching and Evans Bay Intermediate.
BA/BTeach
Pete Soldini
Classroom Teacher / Room 7
Kia ora koutou, I am super excited to continue with the EBIS team this year; having joined last year. I have a passion for teaching this age group as they start to truly scaffold onto their prior learning and can produce wonderfully insightful work. Having worked as a teacher aide, private tutor and at specialist holiday programs, I have a strong experience with both high learning and behavioural needs. I completed my teaching diploma in 2010. In my spare time I am busy with my wife, two kids and pets, I volunteer as a Scout Leader. I enjoy quizzes and listening to a wide variety of music. I can also be seen around Wellington running in the hills or on boards in the bays.
BSc/GDip Tch
Riley Barrett
Classroom Teacher / Room 5
Kia ora Koutou!
My name is Riley Barrett and I was privileged to start my teaching journey at Evans Bay Intermediate School. I am originally from the mighty Taranaki province but moved to Te Whanganui-a-Tara to complete a bachelor’s degree in education as well as a graduate diploma in primary teaching.
I enjoy teaching intermediate because of the amount of insight the students bring into the classroom. I love helping students understand the world around them and their position in it.
Outside of the classroom, you can find me in rowing boats, running around the city, going to gigs or exercising my passion for playing musical instruments.
Bryony Fulford-Spring
Classroom Teacher / Room 6
Kia ora koutou. I am thrilled to be continuing my teaching journey at EBIS this year. I have recently completed a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Primary) through the University of Canterbury. Although l completed my degree through UC I did this via distance, so I have now called Wellington home for 8 years. I have dreamed of being a teacher since I was in school myself and felt that I found my niche in teaching when l completed one of my third-year placements at EBIS. I enjoy the positive connections that are made with year 7 and 8 students and love the upbeat and ever-interesting learning environment their energy brings. I aspire to create a classroom space that is inclusive, creative and fun! In my spare time, l enjoy spending time with my friends and family, drawing (or anything visual arts!), and running or hiking.
Team Tonga (SPEC)
Adam Hart
Team Leader / Specialist Teacher / STEAM
Kia ora koutou. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, and I am living the dream. 2024 is my seventh year at EBIS and my first as a Specialist Teacher! I have a real drive to teach problem-solving skills, so science and STEAM are a great fit. I have spent many years travelling and working overseas - working at a summer camp in the USA for three years solidified my passion for working with children. I love teaching at an intermediate age as I can assist students in developing the skills to become lifelong learners. I have an extensive background in special education through working as a teacher, teacher aide and running special education programmes. I enjoy getting creative, a strong coffee, and a good laugh.
BA/BTeach
Stamatoula Boolieris
Specialist Teacher / Visual Art
Kia Ora, Kali spera
I teach my greatest passion; Art. I love teaching and embracing this fascinating age group. I am constantly amazed at what students can create.
I come from the beautiful Degean Island of Ithaka, the home of Odysseus. My background is Graphic Art; specialising in Fashion Illustration and copywriting, painting, pen and ink work, jewellery design and Greek iconography.
I love the art of good conversation, great food, laughter, singing - sharing all of this with good company.
Rob Ngan-Woo
Specialist Teacher / Wellbeing / SENCO
Talofa lava Ni hao, My name is Rob Ngan-Woo (or Matua Rob) and I am super privileged to be able to work here at EBIS.
I have taught in a range of schools and year groups around Wellington and I am hoping to use this knowledge and bits of wisdom to empower our EBIS students. I am fortunate enough to have a beautiful hoa-wahine who still likes me, and two ex-EBIS students who don't mind my dad jokes. I live in Maranui Lyall Bay and enjoy connecting with family, surfing, diving and supporting my children in their chosen sports. I support EBIS by doing SENCO role and I am also a part of the SPEC team where I teach Wellbeing. I look forward to getting to know your families and your amazing tamariki.
Lesssgoooooo EBIS! Kia ora e te whanau o Te Kura o te Akautangi, EBIS.
Tanya Chalk
Specialist Teacher / Foods
Kia ora koutou. My name is Tanya Chalk and I have been a classroom teacher for over 20 years. Working at EBIS in the Foods Room is my dream job. Sharing my joy and passion for all things food is a privilege. Cooking, baking, creating recipes, and learning about food and nutrition are such practical life skills, and I hope to make the kitchen a fun place to be.
“Laughter is brightest where food is best.” (Irish Proverb)
Team Ngā Hau e Whā
Noralyne Humphries
Executive Officer
Sonia Panchal
Secretary
Hi my name is Sonia Panchal. I am the School Secretary. I have been working at the school for over 4 years. I started working one day a week and now am currently working two days a week, part sharing my role with Joy Manuel.
I really enjoy working at the school. It is a great place to work. The variety of the role keeps me on my toes! Also the diversity of the students also makes it an interesting place to work.
In my spare time I love to travel and spend time with my family. I have two children, my son is at College and daughter will be in her first year at University.
Bridget Dixon
ESOL Teacher
Kia ora, I am looking forward to returning to the EBIS whanau this year. Previously employed as a regular relief teacher and RTLB: Resource Teacher of Learning & Behaviour based at EBIS, I have been connected to the school for over twenty years. My two sons also attended EBIS, and I really valued the positive, collaborative relationship with the school as a parent.
Having taught from primary through to tertiary, intermediate is my preferred level of the school and I am a strong advocate for this system. Passionate about supporting Akonga to be the best version of themselves and supporting them in their learning journey is a privilege. Outside of school, I am an aspiring card shark, enjoy keeping fit and connecting with friends and family.
Alan Thompson
Caretaker
Hi I'm Alan Thomson, caretaker at EBIS. I was born in Scotland and have been in New Zealand for the last 7 years.
I am a recent addition to the EBIS whanau having worked here for the last year. The staff here are so friendly and the kids are great.
I love the work I do - mending and fixing. I play guitar and darts in my spare time and am part of a band.
Paul Hendry
Gardener
Stuart Slater
Counsellor
Tena koutou katoa
It is a privilege for me to serve the EBIS community as your counsellor. Confidential counselling is available to students, parents and caregivers, and staff.
My passion for counselling began when I was a teacher, and I became a volunteer with Youthline. I then retrained as a counsellor, and spent most of my counselling days in secondary schools. I have also been involved in the playing, coaching and management of sports, in particular hockey, cricket and softball.
I am married, and have six children and step children and thirteen grandchildren. There have also been a number of cats and dogs in our lives! I enjoy family and friends, music, the garden, reading and movies.
Counselling is a special way of talking over the issues in our lives, and of hearing more clearly that which we are saying.
Sue Burgess
Teacher Aide
I came to live in New Zealand in 2016 but had visited many times before as my daughter has lived in Wellington for 17 years and her sister in Australia for the same amount of time. I was thrilled to have the chance of part time work as a Teacher Aide at EBIS and love the ethos of the school, the commitment of the teaching team and how all pupils are valued for their individual talents.
I worked as a Teaching Assistant in a UK school when my children were still at school but progressed on to train in Early years Care which I also taught in a vocational college. I finally qualified as a Social Worker in my early 50s…but am still learning!
Away from EBIS I look after my 2 little grandchildren and have a passion for all creative arts.
Haley Marsh
Teacher Aide
Kia ora koutou, I am very excited to be joining the EBIS team as a teacher aide and I am looking forward to getting to know students and staff. I have two beautiful daughters and very much enjoy being their mum. I love being outside in the garden, going for walks and reading books when time allows. I have recently taken up watercolour painting and am surprised at the creative side that has emerged. I hope to be able to share my experiences and contribute to a wonderful learning environment, as well as learning from students and staff alike.
Mā te whiritahi ka whakatutuki ai ngā pūmanawa ā tāngata
“Together weaving the realisation of potential”
Bere Mohammad
Teacher Aide
My name is Berevan. I am 26 years old and a mother of two wonderful children, Maria and Daniel. I speak three languages: Kurdish, Arabic, and English.
Around five years ago, my partner and I resettled in New Zealand, starting a new chapter of our lives. This transition brought significant changes, including a new country, language, culture, and social circle. Throughout this period, we encountered various challenges that highlighted the value of having supportive people around us.
Motivated by our experiences, I decided to dedicate some of my time to helping newcomers to New Zealand, specifically focusing on young learners during their educational journey. Now, I work as a Teacher Aide at both Evans Bay Intermediate School and Lyall Bay School. Additionally, I am studying part-time at the Open Polytechnic to obtain the New Zealand Certificate in Education Support which provides me with additional teaching skills and knowledge that I can apply to maximize the benefit provided to our young learners.