Staff List

Mrs Betty Brown
Principal

Betty is a passionate, long-time International Baccalaureate educator and leader who has previously held roles including IB Academic Director, PYP Coordinator, IBO Accreditation Team Member, and workshop presenter. These experiences shaped her ability to integrate educational excellence with culturally responsive practice and future-focused learning, tailored to the unique needs of each school community.

Betty’s leadership is grounded in nurturing strong relationships, upholding Christian values, and fostering learning environments where every ākonga/learner feels seen, heard, and inspired to thrive.

Betty is a proud wife to Stephen, and mum to three wonderful children—S.A.M, Aterea-James, and Karena. All three are graduates of the IB Diploma Programme, and she says she feels truly blessed that they experienced a rich international upbringing before returning home to Aotearoa to give back. 

“Whether greeting students at the gate, supporting kaiako, or engaging with whānau, my purpose is always to help our young people grow into knowledgeable, confident, compassionate leaders.”

Shelley Catlin
General Manager

Shelley Catlin joined St Mark’s in early 2025 and brings extensive experience in business operations. She holds a Master of Management, an MBA, and qualifications in public policy, project, and change management, enabling her to drive both strategic and operational success. She’s skilled in leveraging new technologies to optimise efficiencies and has a proven ability to drive positive business change.

Shelley is passionate about fostering inclusive, culturally responsive environments that celebrate diversity and enable student and staff success.

Mrs Erica Harvison
Head of Inclusive Learning

Erica has been associated with St Mark’s since 2006 when she worked in the admin team for a year while on her OE. This inspired her to become a teacher and following her year in New Zealand, she travelled back home to the UK to complete a PGCE.

Erica then returned to New Zealand in 2010 with her husband, James, and began back at St Mark’s as a Year 1 teacher. Over the next 15 years, she taught Year 1, 2 and 6 and has held roles such as the Dean of the Lower Primary, Dean of Inclusion and Wellbeing. Erica was also the Deputy Principal for 5 years from 2019 to 2023 and is now the Acting Principal and the Learning Support Manager.

“Both of my children attend St Mark’s and have thrived here, moving through the Preschool and on into the Primary School. I feel so blessed to be part of this school community where kindness, curiosity and service are valued and encouraged. St Mark’s is, and always has been, a special place for me”.

Mrs Charmaine Ramos-Yee
Assistant Principal of Preschool and Lower Primary

Charmaine joined St Mark’s in 2014 and has served various roles, notably as Dean of Preschool and Acting PYP Coordinator (twice) before advancing to Assistant Principal of Preschool and Lower Primary in 2025.

Charmaine holds a Master in Education with a major in Early Childhood Education, specialising in developmental stages from birth to 8 years old, and a minor in Educational Leadership and Management. She has also received extensive training in the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum – Te Whāriki, the Reggio Emilia Approach, and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB-PYP). These frameworks have strengthened her commitment to creating rich, child-centred learning environments that foster growth, curiosity, and creativity.

Charmaine’s work in prestigious international schools has allowed her to apply diverse educational philosophies in different cultural settings, honing her ability to adapt and meet the needs of a wide range of learners. 

“Moving from my life in Manila, Philippines to the beautiful shores of Aotearoa that I now call home, has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I believe that a child’s success in school lies in the trust and partnership between teachers and parents. It is my pleasure to be your partner in your child’s learning journey.” 

Sarah Toa
Assistant Principal of Upper Primary

With a passion for building connections and fostering learning, Sarah enjoys collaborating with colleagues, whānau, and learners to continue a culture where curiosity and growth thrive.

With over 30 years in education and leadership, Sarah’s journey has taken her from teaching in New Zealand to living and working in Shanghai and Dubai, and now, back home in New Zealand. She has taught various subjects and ages, from new entrants to Year 9. Her academic path includes a Bachelor of Education from Massey University and a Master’s of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of Northern Iowa. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education at Edgewood University, Madison, Wisconsin.

Outside of work, family is Sarah’s focus. Her husband, also a teacher, and she have two daughters, a Chinese cat and two Dubai dogs. Sarah loves reading and gardening, and can’t wait to grow things beyond the Dubai desert! This balance brings calm and joy to her professional life.

“I am excited to bring my enthusiasm and expertise to this amazing community and look forward to making meaningful contributions and connections.”

Mrs Charmaine Ramos-Yee
Assistant Principal of Preschool and Lower Primary

Charmaine joined St Mark’s in 2014 and has served various roles, notably as Dean of Preschool and Acting PYP Coordinator (twice) before advancing to Assistant Principal of Preschool and Lower Primary in 2025.

Charmaine holds a Master in Education with a major in Early Childhood Education, specialising in developmental stages from birth to 8 years old, and a minor in Educational Leadership and Management. She has also received extensive training in the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum – Te Whāriki, the Reggio Emilia Approach, and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB-PYP). These frameworks have strengthened her commitment to creating rich, child-centred learning environments that foster growth, curiosity, and creativity.

Charmaine’s work in prestigious international schools has allowed her to apply diverse educational philosophies in different cultural settings, honing her ability to adapt and meet the needs of a wide range of learners. 

“Moving from my life in Manila, Philippines to the beautiful shores of Aotearoa that I now call home, has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I believe that a child’s success in school lies in the trust and partnership between teachers and parents. It is my pleasure to be your partner in your child’s learning journey.” 

Rachel Martino
Preschool Teacher

Rachel comes to St. Mark’s from California, where she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies, as well as a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in 2019. Before moving to New Zealand, she taught Kindergarten (Year 0/1) for five years and Intermediate Theater for two years at an arts-based school with an emphasis on social justice.

While teaching, she also pursued a Masters in Educational Psychology, with the intention of better serving neurodiverse students and children with learning needs. In the local community, she volunteers as a Girl Guide leader and hopes to connect with and support the growth or more children while at St. Mark’s.
.

“I can’t wait to support you, your children, and bring my love of the arts, movement, and learning, to the foundation classroom this year!”

Mr Kazuhisa Nishimura
Preschool Teacher

Kazuhisa was born in Osaka, Japan. Kazu completed his Teaching Bachelor’s Degree at Victoria University in 2019, and while studying, he worked at St Mark’s Preschool as a Student Teacher. After his studies, Kazu returned to his home country, Japan, for three years and worked at a nursery his parents ran in Osaka. Kazu enjoys going outside and doing many physical activities or exploring nature with tamariki.

“I enjoy going outside and doing lots of physical activities or exploring nature with children. I am here to put all my energy into supporting your children, so please let me know how I can help your tamariki in their learning journey. It is good to be back at St Mark’s, and I look forward to participating in children’s learning.”

Danielle Sanchez
Preschool Kaiako

Danielle was born and raised in the Philippines. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, emphasis in Choral Conducting, from the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music in Manila. She spent five years as a music teacher and a choir moderator at an all-girls private Catholic school in the Philippines.

In January 2023, she moved to Christchurch, New Zealand to further her studies and has since completed a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education) at New Zealand Tertiary College. Prior to relocating to Wellington, she worked as a reliever for a year at a learning centre in Rolleston, Canterbury. 

Danielle has a deep love for music, especially in classical and pop music being her favourite. Apart from music, she is also passionate about sports, with swimming being her first love, as she was once a competitive swimmer.

“Moving to Wellington was a big and somewhat intimidating step for me, but it’s definitely been an exciting one. I have always had a deep love for children and believe they truly deserve the best education. I am really looking forward to applying all the knowledge and skills I have gained from my education and experiences. I am committed to contributing to their growth, and I am excited to do so with the support of my amazing colleagues at St. Mark’s.”

Miss Eloise Fogg
Teacher Assistant

Eloise joined St Marks in 2022 as a Gap Year Student. Since then, she has discovered her love of teaching and has worked throughout the school, becoming a Teacher Assistant. Eloise is currently studying for a Bachelor of Education (Teaching) (ECE) through Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, with aspirations of becoming a Primary teacher.
Eloise has a passion for the arts, both visual and performing and is enthusiastic about exploring different forms of expression with tamariki. Eloise has since also taken over our dance programme. She brings 14 years of dance experience, having trained in modern styles.

“I feel so lucky to be a part of the St. Marks community, where I’ve discovered my love of teaching. I truly enjoy watching our tamariki grow and contributing to an inclusive environment where students can find confidence in themselves!”

Miss Livia Robinson
Teacher Assistant

Livia was born here in Te Whanganui-a-Tara.

She has worked with Tamariki for a while as a reliever and as a Kaiako with Scouts NZ but has just started as a Teacher, working towards her Bachelor in Early Child Care.

Livia has two younger sisters and her whānau has four cats: Sprocket, Flicka, Indigo and kitten, sushi. She has a passion for biology as well as arts and crafts. She says she especially loves dinosaurs and native birds!

“I love working here and look forward to helping our students grow and learn while becoming a better Kaiako.”

Mrs Sandra Polaczuk
Year 1 Teacher

Sandra has been associated with St Mark’s since 2018 when she worked in the Learning Support Team. In 2022 she completed a Graduate Diploma in Teaching from Te Herenga Waka. She also holds a Graduate Diploma in Educational Psychology from Massey University with a minor in TESOL, a degree in Special Education from Capilano University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh.

Her work experience in primary education includes employment in both Vancouver, Canada and Wellington, New Zealand and spans over two decades. She is interested in building relationships and getting to know her learners in order to compliment both their needs and interests.

“I believe student success is linked to rich engagement within a positive learning environment. I value the family-like atmosphere and the high standard of excellence set within the learning environment at St Mark’s School and within the IB community.”

Ms Wendy Hannagan
Year 2 Teacher and ESOL/ Mother tongue coordinator

Wendy is a specialist English Language Learning (ELL) teacher with a Master’s Degree in TESOL Leadership and a Postgraduate Diploma in Second Language Teaching. She is also an experienced classroom teacher and educator of more than 30 years, with a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Diploma in Teaching.

Wendy has taught in international schools in South Korea, China, and Russia, as well as in NZ schools around the country, including many years in Wellington. She is an experienced IB educator and has been a workshop facilitator for second language learning. Wendy has learned four languages to varying degrees and considers herself internationally minded and a global citizen.

“Language is a gift we give to our children. Remember to say what you mean, and mean what you say!”

Michelle Colley
Year 3 Teacher

Michelle is thrilled to return to St. Mark’s School, a place close to her heart as an alumna. With a Masters in Education and a strong passion for Structured Literacy and Numeracy, Michelle brings both expertise and enthusiasm to her teaching. Born and raised in Wellington, Michelle has a global perspective shaped by her teaching experiences in America, Canada, and China. Her dedication to education is matched by her love for new challenges, which she eagerly anticipates tackling this year.

Outside the classroom, Michelle treasures quality time with her son, enjoys traveling to new destinations, and finds relaxation at the beach, where her caravan offers the perfect escape.

“I am thrilled to return to St Mark’s as a staff member and am excited to use my skills and experience and enthusiasm to this new chapter of my teaching career.”

Mrs Jacinta Zogg
Year 3 Teacher

Jacinta has been teaching at St Mark’s School since July 2010, in both the Upper and Lower Primary areas. She has taught at a variety of schools during her teaching career. Her professional Educational background is in Psychology, Classroom Teaching in the New Zealand Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, Teaching English as a Second Language, SPELD. She also has qualifications in Jazz Theory/Harmony and Ear Training from Berklee School of Music, USA. She enjoys learning about, practising and teaching growth mindset, student agency, and embracing cultures of thinking in a multisensory classroom environment.

“Within our IB, PYP transdisciplinary context here at St Mark’s School, my discoveries in using multisensory approaches, and particularly in using Music and Art to enrich and enhance our learning experiences and environment, continues to be a nourishing journey. I am blessed to help guide students to discover their inner joy, grow in developing their identity as an international learner, and to find strengths and new growth-mindset qualities within themselves, based on our school values. Our Special Character as an Anglican School continues to be a focus for my Professional Development now and in the future.“

Miss Amanda Symonds
Year 4 Teacher

Amanda studied at Victoria University in Wellington and has a bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood I have been a proud member of the St. Mark’s community since the summer of 2019. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving in various roles, including as a preschool teacher, Associate Dean of Preschool, and Year 0 Teacher.

I studied at Victoria University in Wellington, where I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Studies and Education, as well as a Graduate Diploma in Primary Teaching. My passion lies in supporting young learners as they embark on their educational journey, fostering their curiosity and love for discovery in a nurturing and engaging environment.

When I’m not in the classroom, I cherish spending time with my family, especially my daughter, Luna, who always keeps me on my toes! On weekends, we enjoy exploring the outdoors, visiting the beach, the zoo, and Zealandia, where we love connecting with nature and creating special memories together.

“I look forward to working alongside the amazing families and students at St. Mark’s as we grow, learn, and thrive together.”

Miss Sarah Griffiths
Year 4 Teacher

Sarah joined St Mark’s in 2019 as a Year 1 teacher and transitioned to teaching Year 2 in 2020. Currently serving as the Lower Primary Literacy Coordinator, Sarah will bring her expertise to Year 4 in 2025.

Sarah is passionate about the challenges and rewards of teaching, focusing on building knowledge, establishing strong work habits, and fostering capabilities that students can carry throughout their schooling years.

As a strong advocate for children’s academic, personal, social, and emotional well-being, Sarah is dedicated to creating a holistic learning environment. She believes in the power of physical activity to enhance learning and uses art to design a warm, engaging classroom that accommodates and celebrates diverse learning styles.

“I have a strong interest and experience in literacy. Working at St. Mark’s is incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to witness our students reaching their full potential and developing a lifelong love of learning.”

Mrs Cathy Underhill
Year 5 Teacher

Cathy first joined St Mark’s School in 1998 as the Senior Teacher in Year 5 & 6. Over the years she has also worked as the Art/Technology teacher (across all year levels), a Year 8 teacher and once spent a term as Acting Deputy Principal. Cathy now teaches a Year 5 class, teaches Science to Year 7, and has responsibility for the English Language Curriculum and Structured Literacy.

Some of Cathy’s highlights at St Mark’s have been the Year 7 and 8 productions, the Year 8 Exhibition, the World Vision Runathon, the 2019 Sporting and Cultural trip to Sydney and her time as Dean of Upper Primary.

“It is such a privilege to work with whānau, supporting all our tamariki in their learning. I am so lucky to be supported by the incredible staff at St Mark’s. I love coming to work each day, working with people I consider as friends, which is such a privilege.”

Carolyn Hollands
Year 5 Teacher

Carolyn has taught internationally for many years. She taught in New Zealand for 7 years, followed by roles in Cairo and London. Originally from the UK, she took a year out with her family to travel the world, and she and her family decided to settle in Wellington.

Carolyn has been an English teacher, a department leader, an ESOL teacher and now has specialised in SPELD (teaching students with multiple neurodiversities to learn language and maths). Carolyn loves travel, being outside and going to the theatre.

“I love teaching children- their enthusiasm, honesty and imagination is the best part of the role. I am also loving living in Wellington and embracing all the opportunities living here brings.”

Miss Emma Haran
Year 6 Teacher

Hi everyone! I am new to New Zealand and already feel so welcomed by the wonderful staff and students at St Mark’s. I’m Irish and I have recently relocated to Wellington after a year in Melbourne. I am excited to be in a school that values so many different aspects of the childrens’ learning and values every type of learner. Coming to school every day is so rewarding and my class is fun and engaging. I am excited to see what the rest of the school year holds!

Mr Cameron Burns
PSPE and Sports/Year 7 Teacher

Cam has worked twice at St Mark’s, first as a classroom teacher from 2006 to 2011, and then returned as a PE and Sport teacher in 2024. Now he joins us as classroom teacher in the Upper Primary team. Cam has been an educator for many years, teaching internationally.

” I am passionate about teaching Physical Education and Health and the role it plays in our Hauora, our social and emotional wellbeing. Personally I am an active person and enjoy trail running and getting out in nature. I also enjoy playing any sport and coaching my daughter’s sports teams.”

Miriam Quarterman
Year 7 Teacher

Miriam is an experienced teacher with around 20 years of teaching experience, mostly in the South Island and a few years in London. Most of her teaching career has been in year 6-9, and has included many roles including year 4-6 team leader, head of ICT and Sport and World Vision. She is a family-orientated, fun loving person. Over the last few years she has been at home with her two preschool age children. Miriam’s husband Brett is an old boy of St Mark’s.
Their biggest achievements over the past few years include having children and building a house. Miriam loves to travel, spend time with friends and swim.

“I am really looking forward to beginning my journey at St Mark’s. I am working my way through a 3000 piece jigsaw, like each piece in the jigsaw, I am excited to see the gifts, talents and attributes your children bring to the classroom to make a beautiful picture”.

Mrs Andrea Pawley
Science

Andrea joined St Mark’s in 2008. She is currently teaching in Year 7 and is the Head of Science.
In 2015 Andrea spent six months working at GNS, alongside some of the country’s leading scientists in the Natural Hazards team. This incredible experience allowed Andrea to bridge the gap between what scientists actually do and what children learn in school.

“I firmly believe in making science fun, accessible and real for students, and I especially enjoy teaching the International Baccalaureate.”

Mrs Nikki Merval
Year 8 Teacher

Mrs Markelle Archer
Visual Art

Children in Years 1 and 2 enjoy art with their classroom teachers, while in Years 3-8, our students have weekly lessons with Mrs Markelle Archer, our specialist Art Teacher and the Associate Dean of Specialists from 2023.
Markelle has been a primary classroom teacher and visual arts specialist for over 20 years. For the last six years, she has solely taught Visual Art as a specialist subject at St Mark’s School.
Markelle is very passionate about Art, Inquiry Learning and developing a Growth Mindset in students.
She believes that every student is an artist and the art room is their studio space where they can have fun, be creative and develop their skills.

“Outside of school, I am a mum to two girls and a feisty labradoodle. I go to the gym and walk. I
volunteer for Heart Kids Wellington and the Life Flight Trust and am a member of the Australian and NZ fontan advocacy committee.”

Mrs Jo Rosario
Music

Jo is thrilled to return to the Music Department at St Mark’s after some time away. During her absence, she and her husband lived in various parts of the country, from the sunny East Coast to the beautiful top of the South. Jo enjoys time with her family in Wellington, including her one-year-old daughter and their lively black Labrador/Pointer dog.

Jo’s passion for music, especially singing, remains strong. She sings weekly with the choir at St Paul’s Cathedral and is excited to share her love of music with the classroom choirs, ensembles, and students at St Mark’s.

“I look forward to making music with all the classroom choirs, ensembles, and students.”

Miss Courtney Abbot
Drama

Courtney joined St Mark’s School in 2022 as our specialist Drama teacher.

Courtney has been involved in all areas of teaching and facilitating, through running Drama workshops for youth to facilitating onboarding at a corporate level. In every situation she is grounded in performance-based education.

She has also been involved in professional film, theatre and TV throughout NZ, Canada and the UK, and this journey has led her to complete her Masters in Teaching and Learning specialising in Drama.

Courtney’s driving force for the authentic implementation of Drama within a schooling context centres around the physical, emotional and social benefits for students, and together building a healthy appreciation of culture and the arts.

“The arts, it has been said, cannot change the world, but they may change human beings who might change the world.”

Mr Cameron Burns
PSPE and Sports

Cam has worked twice at St Mark’s, first as a classroom teacher from 2006 to 2011, and then returned as a PE and Sport teacher in 2024. Now he joins us as classroom teacher in the Upper Primary team. Cam has been an educator for many years, teaching internationally.

” I am passionate about teaching Physical Education and Health and the role it plays in our Hauora, our social and emotional wellbeing. Personally I am an active person and enjoy trail running and getting out in nature. I also enjoy playing any sport and coaching my daughter’s sports teams.”

Dana Guisasola
Spanish Specialist

Dana is passionate about teaching and has been dedicated to this field for over 10 years. During her career, she’s had the pleasure of working with hundreds of students, which has given her a strong appreciation for how unique and individual each learner is.

Dana completed a PhD in Spanish at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington. She also holds degrees in Spanish Linguistics and Literature, along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Spanish as a Second Language, all earned in Argentina.

“I am excited to be part of the St Mark’s whānau because of the wonderful sense of community here. I believe that building strong relationships and a supportive community is the key to creating a safe, welcoming environment where students of all ages can learn, interact, and thrive.”

Mrs Andrea Pawley
Science

Andrea joined St Mark’s in 2008. She is currently teaching in Year 7 and is the Head of Science.
In 2015 Andrea spent six months working at GNS, alongside some of the country’s leading scientists in the Natural Hazards team. This incredible experience allowed Andrea to bridge the gap between what scientists actually do and what children learn in school.

“I firmly believe in making science fun, accessible and real for students, and I especially enjoy teaching the International Baccalaureate.”

Mrs Sarah Knox
Librarian

Sarah is delighted to be joining the community at St Mark’s School supporting literacy, learning, and fostering a love of reading. Sarah brings with her a lifelong passion for children’s literature and thirty years’ experience working in libraries.

Her previous roles include, Reference and Liaison Librarian serving the vibrant performing arts and creative technologies community at Te Auaha, Whitireia/WelTec city campus, and twenty-five years working for the National Library of New Zealand, where she was involved in several projects with Services to Schools. Three of her favourite childhood reads are Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Judith Kerr’s The Tiger Who Came to Tea, and C.S Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia. In her spare time, Sarah loves cooking, reading, attending yoga and Pilates classes, and walking along Wellington’s wild south coast.

“You can find magic wherever you look.  Sit back and relax all you need is a book!” – Dr. Seuss

Mrs Erica Harvison
Director of Arrowsmith/ Head of Learning Support

Erica has been associated with St Mark’s since 2006 when she worked in the admin team for a year while on her OE. This inspired her to become a teacher and following her year in New Zealand, she travelled back home to the UK to complete a PGCE.

Erica then returned to New Zealand in 2010 with her husband, James, and began back at St Mark’s as a Year 1 teacher. Over the next 15 years, she taught Year 1, 2 and 6 and has held roles such as the Dean of the Lower Primary, Dean of Inclusion and Wellbeing. Erica was also the Deputy Principal for 5 years from 2019 to 2023 and is now the Acting Principal and the Learning Support Manager.

“Both of my children attend St Mark’s and have thrived here, moving through the Preschool and on into the Primary School. I feel so blessed to be part of this school community where kindness, curiosity and service are valued and encouraged. St Mark’s is, and always has been, a special place for me”.

Mrs Marie Ward
Reading Support Specialist

Marie began teaching at St Mark’s in 1976 and was a classroom teacher for many years. In 2009, she trained as a Reading Recovery Teacher and supported children needing a boost in their literacy skills.

She is training alongside the rest of the St Mark’s teachers in the Structured Literacy Programme and will continue to assist children with their learning.

“I get great satisfaction seeing children accelerate their learning through individual or small group intervention.
It is rewarding to watch the children thrive with extra support and gain confidence in their learning journey.”

Mrs Vivienne Poultney
Arrowsmith Educator/ SMART

Vivienne, a native Wellingtonian, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Science with a double major in Zoology and Botany from Victoria University. Her professional journey includes management roles at a major bookstore and a large Central City Dental Surgery. Following a period as a devoted parent, she re-entered the workforce as a Teacher’s Assistant in a Northern Suburb college, where she took on diverse responsibilities, including assisting the SENCO and supporting students with Special Assessment Conditions for exams.

Since joining St Mark’s in 2017, Vivienne has served as an Arrowsmith Cognitive Educator and Learning Support Assistant, catering to students from Preschool through Year 8. In 2024, she assumed the role of SMART Director, managing the After-School Care and Holiday Programmes and her responsibilities as an Arrowsmith Educator and Numicon Math Programme Facilitator.

“I love working in education and find it a gratifying career. Helping our young people to discover, learn and grow, strengthening their learning capacities with enthusiasm and preparing them for their exciting futures”.

Ms Cindy Cole
Learning Assistant

Cindy Cole brings over a decade of dedicated service to St. Mark’s School as a Teacher Assistant. Since joining the team in 2012, Cindy has played an integral role in students’ educational journey from Preschool through Year 8. Born and raised in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand, Cindy’s roots trace back to a family that migrated from the United Kingdom. Her multicultural background enriches her understanding and appreciation for diversity, which she brings into her daily work. Cindy is deeply committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She finds joy in keeping fit and is a certified Introduction Aerobic Instructor.

Cindy’s professional qualifications include a Diploma Level 4 in Teacher Assistance, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Her blend of practical experience and formal education equips her with the skills necessary to effectively support the teaching staff and enhance the learning environment for students.

“I enjoy my job at St Mark’s. I am an enthusiastic and motivated assistant, who cares and is passionate about supporting our tamariki with all aspects of school life.”

Miss Eloise Fogg
Teacher Assistant

Eloise joined St Marks in 2022 as a Gap Year Student. Since then, she has discovered her love of teaching and has worked throughout the school, becoming a Teacher Assistant. Eloise is currently studying for a Bachelor of Education (Teaching) (ECE) through Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, with aspirations of becoming a Primary teacher.

Eloise has a passion for the arts, both visual and performing and is enthusiastic about exploring different forms of expression with tamariki. Eloise has since also taken over our dance programme. She brings 14 years of dance experience, having trained in modern styles.

“I feel so lucky to be a part of the St. Marks community, where I’ve discovered my love of teaching. I truly enjoy watching our tamariki grow and contributing to an inclusive environment where students can find confidence in themselves!”

Rev Dr Digby Wilkinson
Chaplain

Digby Wilkinson is the School Chaplain and has been here for 8 years. Digby is an Anglican priest who looks after the weekly chapel service alongside pastoral care when needed. Digby is also the Vicar of St Christopher’s Church in Tawa after being the Dean of Wellington Cathedral of St Paul, where his connection with St Mark’s began. Alongside his roles as a senior priest within the Diocese, Digby occasionally lectures in leadership and ethics at the tertiary level and, for fun, completed his doctorate in 2021. Digby repaired and maintained main trunk locomotives in his old life before church ministry.

“To keep life exciting, I ride a motorcycle locally and around the country. I repair everything mechanical, build computer systems and love building anything out of wood. I’m married to Jane, have a cat, want a dog, have three grown kids, waiting to be a poppa and love St Mark’s School.”

Max Elysian
ESOL Coordinator

Miss Livia Robinson
Teacher Assistant

Livia was born here in Te Whanganui-a-Tara.

She has worked with Tamariki for a while as a reliever and as a Kaiako with Scouts NZ but has just started as a Teacher, working towards her Bachelor in Early Child Care.

Livia has two younger sisters and her whānau has four cats: Sprocket, Flicka, Indigo and kitten, sushi. She has a passion for biology as well as arts and crafts. She says she especially loves dinosaurs and native birds!

“I love working here and look forward to helping our students grow and learn while becoming a better Kaiako.”

Shelley Catlin
General Manager

Shelley Catlin joined St Mark’s in early 2025 and brings extensive experience in business operations. She holds a Master of Management, an MBA, and qualifications in public policy, project, and change management, enabling her to drive both strategic and operational success. She’s skilled in leveraging new technologies to optimise efficiencies and has a proven ability to drive positive business change.

Shelley is passionate about fostering inclusive, culturally responsive environments that celebrate diversity and enable student and staff success.

Fei Han
Executive Assistant

Fei is a wonderful addition to our team, bringing over eight years of experience as a Personal Assistant across Wellington’s private and public sectors. She’s incredibly skilled with office technologies and documentation, has advanced computing skills, and with more than three years of experience translating and interpreting between English and Mandarin Chinese.

When she’s not helping keep everything running smoothly, Fei is a Japanese Taiko drum performer with Taikoza Wellington, enjoys sudoku, and is a kickboxing enthusiast.

“My goal is to support the success and growth of those around me.”

Mrs Sabra Prentice
School Administrator

Sabra joined St Mark’s as School Administrator in August 2023, having moved to Wellington in 2021 from Hong Kong.

Sabra brings a varied experience to the job of School Administrator having worked in international schools in Hong Kong for over 30 years, in many roles; parent, PTA president & committee member, teaching assistant and for the last 18 years as an ESOL teacher after completing a CELTA at the University of Waikato.

“As School Administrator I definitely have the best job…lots of people contact, surrounded by tamariki, and none of the hard work of teaching! The St Mark’s whānau have been so welcoming and helpful and I am really happy to be a part of this lovely community.”

Janey Richards
Enrolment Manager

Diane Cain
Finance Manager

Ms Sofia Zadimas
Finance Administrator

Sofia holds a Bachelor’s of Law and a Bachelors of Arts degree from Victoria University . Sofia joined St Mark’s in 2023 as the Office Administrator and then moved on as the Finance Administrator. Prior to this Sofia worked as the Finance Administrator at Brooklyn School and as a Property Manager for a Commercial Company.

Sofia brings a wide range of expertise and it has allowed her to apply her knowledge in a different manner. Sofia has enjoyed working with an exceptionally supportive team and has embraced the St Mark’s way.

“ As the Finance Administrator, I enjoy how no two days are the same. I find my work challenges me, I feel inspired by my work colleagues and their passion to make their mark”

Megan Elwell
Marketing Manager

Megan combines data-driven insights with hands-on experience to craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. She excels at developing integrated communication strategies that enhance brand visibility, foster strong stakeholder relationships, and support enrolment growth.

At St Mark’s, Megan manages all facets of communications – ensuring consistent, authentic messaging that reflects the school’s values and achievements. Her collaborative approach and creative mindset enable her to build meaningful connections within the school community and beyond.

Passionate about education and storytelling, Megan is dedicated to amplifying the voice of St Mark’s School and supporting its mission to nurture confident, curious learners.

Mrs Vivienne Poultney
SMART Director

Vivienne, a native Wellingtonian, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Science with a double major in Zoology and Botany from Victoria University. Her professional journey includes management roles at a major bookstore and a large Central City Dental Surgery. Following a period as a devoted parent, she re-entered the workforce as a Teacher’s Assistant in a Northern Suburb college, where she took on diverse responsibilities, including assisting the SENCO and supporting students with Special Assessment Conditions for exams.

Since joining St Mark’s in 2017, Vivienne has served as an Arrowsmith Educator and Learning Support Assistant, catering to students from Preschool through Year 8. In 2024 she assumed the role of SMART Director, overseeing the after-school care and Holiday Programmes, in addition to her responsibilities as an Arrowsmith Educator and Numicon Math Programme Facilitator.

“I love working in education and find it a truly rewarding career. Helping our young people to discover, learn and grow, strengthening their learning capacities with enthusiasm and preparing them for their exciting futures”.

Mrs Gina Lim
Shop Manager, The Den

Gina joined St Mark’s in The Uniform Den in 2019; prior to having children, she worked in the Banking Industry for 15 years.

“I enjoy working for Alinta Apparel at St Mark’s, especially whilst my 2 children attend the school. I enjoy the community atmosphere here at St Mark’s while also meeting new families just before they embark on their St Mark’s journey”

Mark Whitelock
Property Manager

Raymond Pundsack
Custodian