Our people

Executive

Scott Thelning is the Principal of The Cathedral Grammar School, renowned for his visionary leadership and commitment to educational excellence. With a career spanning decades in the education sector, Scott brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for nurturing young minds.

Under his leadership, The Cathedral Grammar School has flourished as a beacon of academic achievement and holistic development. Scott's strategic initiatives have propelled the school forward, enhancing both its educational offerings and its supportive community environment.

Known for his unwavering dedication to student welfare and academic success, Scott fosters a culture of inclusivity and innovation. His approachable demeanor and genuine care for each student have earned him respect among parents, students, and staff alike.

Scott's leadership extends beyond the school grounds, actively engaging with educational networks and community partnerships to enrich the learning experience at The Cathedral Grammar School. His commitment to fostering a dynamic and forward-thinking educational environment continues to inspire and shape the future leaders of tomorrow.

Carmel Knight Deputy Principal

Carmel Knight brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role as Deputy Principal at The Cathedral Grammar School. With a career spanning several decades, Carmel has predominantly focused on the enriching world of New Entrants, where she has nurtured and guided young learners through their earliest educational experiences.

Over the past decade, Carmel's career has taken an exciting turn as she transitioned into leadership roles. For Carmel, relationships lie at the heart of both her teaching and leadership philosophy. She understands deeply that fostering strong connections with students, staff, and parents is fundamental to creating a supportive and enriching learning environment.

In her leadership journey, Carmel emphasizes the importance of evidence-based pedagogies alongside these relationships. She believes that effective educational practices are grounded in solid evidence and research, while also recognising that the human element is crucial for implementing these practices successfully.

Carmel's passion for education extends beyond the classroom. She is committed to ongoing professional growth and development, ensuring that she stays abreast of the latest educational trends and innovations. Her leadership style is marked by empathy, dedication, and a strong belief in the potential of every student and educator at The Cathedral Grammar School.

Steven Duxfield Business Manager

Steven Duxfield is the Business Manager, bringing over 30 years of extensive experience managing professional services firms in Auckland and Christchurch. A Chartered Accountant, Steven’s career includes leadership roles in law firms, an accounting firm, and a manufacturing company, showcasing his diverse expertise and strong financial acumen.

Steven’s skill set extends beyond the workplace, with a proven track record of governance and leadership on several school boards, including serving as Chair. His dedication to supporting education and his strategic insight make him a valuable addition to our Executive team.

Nicky Oram Director of Enrolments, Marketing & Communications

Nicky Oram is a marketing and communications strategist charged with creating and maintaining our brand identity. With extensive experience working in the corporate sector before commencing at Cathedral Grammar, she welcomes the challenge of creating engaging content that accurately reflects our brand story and ethos.

Nicky enjoys meeting new families and children, ensuring that a sense of belonging and connection is quickly established upon entering our environment. Nicky understands it is a privilege to be entrusted with your most treasured possessions; your children, and strives to bring a sense of family through nurturing, knowing and growing every child, every day.

Nicky brings a wealth of expertise in strategic management and educational leadership, backed by a Bachelor of Applied Management with Distinction. She built a solid foundation in UX and UI design at Yoobee Colleges, where she earned a Diploma in Digital Design specialising in Web and Graphic Design. A seasoned digital marketer and Marketing Association member, Nicky manages all aspects of marketing, from digital campaigns to print media. Her passion and skill in photography add an extra dimension to her varied skill set, enhancing her creative approach to marketing and communications.

Senior Leadership

Teresa Kundycki-Carrell Reverend

Teresa Kundycki-Carrell serves as our Chaplain, embodying the core values of the Anglican faith while providing invaluable pastoral care within the school setting. Her presence bridges the gap between the school and the ChristChurch Transitional Cathedral, our spiritual home, fostering a harmonious relationship that nurtures the spiritual and emotional well-being of our students, staff and school community.

At the heart of Teresa’s role as the Chaplain is the unwavering commitment to uphold the Anglican values of Faith, Hope, and Love. Through her actions and interactions, she exemplifies these values in a way that inspires and enriches the lives of those within our school community. Teresa instils faith in our students, not just as a religious doctrine but as a guiding principle that encourages trust, resilience, and a belief in one's potential.

Her role extends beyond the classroom; she is a beacon of hope within our school environment, demonstrating compassion and care for each individual within our school community, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance. In times of uncertainty or adversity, her presence provides reassurance and encouragement, reminding us all that there is always a path forward, guided by the light of hope. Through her pastoral care, she creates a safe and supportive space where students, staff, and whanau can openly share their joys and struggles, knowing that they will be met with empathy and understanding

Teresa is an invaluable member of our leadership team.

Jude Gray Head of Specialists

Jude Gray is the Head of Visual Art at The Cathedral Grammar School, with a teaching focus in the Preparatory Schools. She also tutors art at The New Zealand Graduate School of Education. She has a Bachelor of Education with a double major in Education and History from the University of Otago, and a Diploma of Primary Teaching from the Dunedin College of Education.

Jude is an experienced classroom teacher who chose to specialise and follow her passion in art. She believes that all children have artistic talent and delivers holistic, cyclic programmes that support creative application, skills and knowledge development, and personalised learning, with high levels of student engagement. She fosters a learning environment in which cultural diversity, exploration, creative thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and art appreciation are encouraged and developed.

Jude aims to give students opportunities to express themselves in an extensive variety of media (including digital art), throughout their time at TCGS.

Brigit McCormack Dean of Girls' School

Sarah Dyer Dean of Boys' Preparatory School

Sarah Dyer is the Dean of the Boys’ School and is the Chair of Connecting School leaders. Sarah has a Master of Education, Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Studies in Education, and a Diploma of Primary Teaching.

Sarah is an experienced, energetic primary teacher focused on developing highly effective environments to improve student learning and well being. She began her teaching in NZ before moving to England for 18 years where she taught in a range of schools and worked in the state and private sectors at senior management level with core focuses being on Curriculum Development and English.

Sarah has a passionate belief that teaching is about nurturing partnerships between students, teachers, and their whānau. She enjoys developing pathways which will enable students to thrive and creating learning environments which will support and challenge each individual. Sarah works collaboratively with her teams to foster the best possible outcomes for those at TCGS. She is community-minded and enjoys opportunities to support the choristers, assist in environmental development and sporting and cultural events that happen throughout the year.

Lisa Buck Dean of Junior School

Lisa Buck is the Dean of the Junior School at The Cathedral Grammar School, bringing with her over sixteen years of teaching experience and a strong commitment to child-centred, values-led education. She holds a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Primary) and has undertaken further professional learning in Incredible Years Classroom Management and Resiliency Promotion, reflecting her strong focus on pastoral care and student wellbeing.

Lisa’s pedagogy is grounded in the belief that children learn best in environments where they feel safe, known, and valued. She is deeply committed to nurturing the whole child - academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually, and believes that strong relationships, empathy, and respect are the foundation for meaningful learning. Her approach balances high expectations with warmth and care, empowering students to develop confidence, independence, and a genuine love of learning.

With extensive experience across the Junior School, Lisa brings particular expertise in Literacy and Numeracy, where she has a proven record of raising student achievement. She has led school-wide professional development in literacy, supported assessment and moderation practices, and was recognised nationally for exemplary reading practice. Alongside this, she has a strong passion for The Arts, having previously served as Head of The Arts, where she led choirs, coordinated itinerant programmes, and curated school-wide cultural events.

As a leader, Lisa is known for her collaborative and inclusive style. She values strong partnerships with staff and families and is committed to creating a Junior School culture where children feel supported to take risks, explore their creativity, and grow into compassionate, capable learners. Her leadership reflects the values of The Cathedral Grammar School, with a clear focus on integrity, service, and fostering a sense of belonging within the school community.

Lisa is passionate about continuing the proud traditions of the Junior School while thoughtfully guiding it forward, ensuring every child is equipped with the foundations they need to thrive now and into the future.

Rachel Baxter Head of Pre-School

Rachel Baxter is an experienced Early Years teacher who brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as Head of Pre-School. She trained as an Early Childhood Educator and has worked in a variety of roles within Early Childhood Education, including leadership and management roles.

Rachel holds a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning in Early Childhood Education.

She is excited to be able to offer, alongside her colleagues, an exceptional Pathway to school programme (Tuakana group) for our young learners.

Rachel knows the early years provide a solid foundation for developing the skills, strengths and attributes needed as successful building blocks for future learning, and as the Head of Pre-school she is committed to providing a rich, and authentic curriculum.

Specialist Teaching Staff

Jude Gray Head of Visual Arts & Specialist Team Leader

Jude Gray is the Head of Visual Art at The Cathedral Grammar School, with a teaching focus in the Prep Schools. She also tutors art at The New Zealand Graduate School of Education. She has a Bachelor of Education with a double major in Education and History from the University of Otago, and a Diploma of Primary Teaching from the Dunedin College of Education.

Jude is an experienced classroom teacher who chose to specialise and follow her passion in art. She believes that all children have artistic talent and delivers holistic, cyclic programmes that support creative application, skills and knowledge development, and personalised learning, with high levels of student engagement. She fosters a learning environment in which cultural diversity, exploration, creative thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and art appreciation are encouraged and developed.

Jude aims to give students opportunities to express themselves in an extensive variety of media (including digital art), throughout their time at TCGS.

Belinda Edmond Art Teacher of Pre-School and Junior School

Belinda is a very experienced teacher having taught all subjects across a range of year levels over her teaching career both in New Zealand and in the UK. She joined the Cathedral Grammar team as a specialised art teacher in 2014 taking responsibility for the Pre-School and Junior School art programme.

Belinda enjoys working collaboratively within the specialist team and believes in the development of the whole child through academic as well as creative pursuits. She believes the focus of the art curriculum on developing essential skills through a wide range of authentic, cultural and creative processes provides children with opportunities for them to become well rounded, confident and skilled lifelong learners of visual art.

Mark Brooke Science, Mathematics, and Enrichment Programme Teacher

Dr. Mark Brooke brings a wealth of expertise and passion for science education to his role as Head of Science at Cathedral Grammar. With a PhD from the University of Otago, Dr. Brooke has an extensive background in scientific research and inquiry-based learning. His approach to teaching fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, preparing students for future academic and career pathways in STEM.

At Cathedral Grammar, Dr. Brooke leads a high school-equivalent Science Lab, where students engage in hands-on experiments, engineering challenges, and real-world scientific investigations. He is dedicated to making science both accessible and inspiring, ensuring that students develop not only foundational scientific knowledge but also the skills to question, experiment, and innovate.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Brooke actively supports students in participating in initiatives like the Canterbury-Westland Science Fair and the Enviroschools sustainability programme, reinforcing the importance of science in solving real-world challenges.

With his commitment to fostering a love of science in young learners, Dr. Brooke ensures that Cathedral Grammar students are well-prepared for future learning and beyond.

Natasha Leith Head of Literacy and Enrichment Programme

Natasha Leith serves as the Head of Literacy at The Cathedral Grammar School, where her passion for education and literacy shines through in her role. With a deep commitment to fostering a love for literacy among students, Natasha employs innovative teaching methods that engage and inspire young learners.

Natasha's journey in education is marked by her dedication to nurturing a strong foundation in literacy skills. She believes in creating a supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to explore the world of literature and language.

As a kind and compassionate educator, Natasha is known for her empathetic approach in understanding each student's unique learning needs. Her enthusiasm for literacy extends beyond the classroom, impacting students' lives positively both academically and personally.

Natasha's leadership in literacy at The Cathedral Grammar School enriches the educational experience, ensuring that students develop not only essential reading and writing skills but also a lifelong appreciation for the power of words. Additionally, Natasha coached the Kids' Lit Quiz team to win the New Zealand competition and attend the world finals in Canberra in 2024, where they placed fifth.

Nicola Holt Director of Music

Nicola Holt is an esteemed musician and the acting Director of Music at The Cathedral Grammar School.

Born in Dunedin, Nicola studied voice and piano performance at Otago University. She went on to complete a Masters degree in performance singing from Victoria University and a Diploma from the Koninklijk Conservatorium in The Hague, Holland.

Nicola has had many years experience as a soprano soloist, choral singer and musical director. She has sung in the New Zealand Youth Choir, and while studying in Holland, performed throughout Europe with various professional ensembles. Since returning to New Zealand in 2003, Nicola has been in demand as a soloist with performances including Monteverdi Vespers 1610 with Bach Musica New Zealand and Handel’s Messiah with the Christchurch City Choir.

Nicola is also an enthusiastic choral conductor. During her time directing Lyrica, the Kelburn Normal School choir, they have toured New Zealand with the NZSO and recorded a CD of These arms to hold you by Eve de Castro Robinson.

Catherine Dark Head of Music - Junior School

Catherine Dark has taught a variety of classes at The Cathedral Grammar school, from preschool Music to Year 6 English, but Junior school teaching stole her heart early on in her teaching career. Catherine is currently a Year 2 class teacher and is the Specialist Music teacher in the Junior School.

Catherine believes in high-quality academic and musical education, where every child is encouraged to reach their full potential. What she enjoys most about teaching Year 2 is seeing how much progress the children make. As they have developed maturity and independence after their first year of school, they are ready for new learning adventures. The children look up to their Year 3 role models and aspire to become Junior School leaders the following year. Catherine believes the key to any child’s learning is their happiness. When they bounce into school each day knowing that they are coming to a welcoming and nurturing environment with a teacher who cares for them, their learning and confidence flourishes.

Helen McIlhone Head of Learning Enhancement

Helen McIlhone is Head of Learning Enhancement at The Cathedral Grammar School. She has a Bachelor of Education from Canterbury University, a Teacher’s College Diploma from Christchurch Teacher’s College, and a Graduate Certificate of TESOL: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Helen also holds certificates in Davis Dyslexia: The Gift of Dyslexia and The Gift of Learning, and Davis Life Concepts for Autism.

Helen is an experienced classroom teacher who has taught in a variety of schools both in New Zealand and overseas, from Year 0-8. In her current roles as reading support for junior students and Davis support for dyslexic students, Helen is focused on providing the optimum opportunity for every student to achieve their individual learning goals, reach their personal best and develop their whole self.

At TCGS Helen is responsible for overseeing programs and resources that facilitate the highest quality teaching and learning opportunities possible to meet the unique needs of students across the school who require extra learning support. She leads a team of Learning Assistants who support students in their class so that they can engage fully in the classroom program. Helen believes her role as educator is to be learner focused, to reflect their needs and to always strive to support them
to reach their full potential.

Madeline Harrington Head of Sports and Physical Education

Madeline Harrington is Head of Sport and Physical Education at The Cathedral Grammar School. She has a Bachelor of Education (Physical Education) and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning from the University of Canterbury.

Madeline believes that physical activity and sport are essential for developing all aspects of student wellbeing. She aims for her programme to develop students physically, socially, mentally and emotionally. She provides sporting experiences which challenge, inspire and extend every student and aims to instil a lifelong love for physical activity.

Ella Kimber Physical Education Teacher

Ella Kimber is an experienced Physical Education teacher, holding a Bachelor of Physical Education and a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning. Known for her fun and innovative teaching methods, Ella is educator for our Junior and Pre-School children.

Ella engaging and creative approach to physical education has made her classes a favorite among young students, fostering a love for fitness and activity from an early age. Her dedication and passion for teaching are evident in her ability to create a positive and dynamic learning environment.

Pre-School

Rachel Baxter Head of Pre-School

Rachel Baxter is an experienced Early Years teacher who brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as Head of Pre-School. She trained as an Early Childhood Educator and has worked in a variety of roles within Early Childhood Education, including leadership and management roles.

Rachel holds a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning in Early Childhood Education.

She is excited to be able to offer, alongside her colleagues, an exceptional Pathway to school programme (Tuakana group) for our young learners.

Rachel knows the early years provide a solid foundation for developing the skills, strengths and attributes needed as successful building blocks for future learning, and as the Head of Pre-school she is committed to providing a rich, and authentic curriculum.

Melissa Holder Pre-School Teacher

Melissa Holder graduated from the University of Canterbury in 2020 with a Bachelor in Teaching.

Melissa grew up in the Woodend and after school travelled to various countries working as a travel agent and an English language teacher. It was after these roles Melissa realised her passion for teaching.

Melissa values the health and well being of tamariki and believes that every student through teaching haoura, will become confident and happy life-long learners. Melissa is excited for her future at Cathedral Grammar as a Pre-School teacher and hopes to learn from her fellow staff and also create positive relationships with her tamariki and their whanau.

Shruti Paralkar Pre-School Teacher

Wan Zhao Pre-School Teacher

Sara Gibson Pre-School Teacher

Sara Gibson holds a Diploma in Kindergarten Teaching, BA in English, Certificate in Teaching Specific Learning Difficulties and a Postgraduate
Certificate in Early Intervention.

Sara originally started out her career working in Kindergarten, but then went onto further her career working in various roles at The Seabrook McKenzie Centre as a tutor, St Albans Primary SchooI teaching special needs and English as a second language (ESOL), The Champion Centre as an early intervention teacher, Christchurch Hospital as a Play Specialist and a teacher at a Community Pre-School with higher learning needs.

Sara's happy place is working with children and their families.

Rebecca Watson Teaching Assistant

Junior School

Rosalind Quatermass Year 1 Teacher

Rosalind Quatermass is a Year One teacher at The Cathedral Grammar School. She holds a Master of Teaching and Learning (Primary Education) with Distinction.

Rosalind takes a child-centred approach to teaching, creating a nurturing and inclusive classroom where young learners feel safe, valued, and confident to engage in their learning. She believes that strong relationships and a sense of belonging are essential foundations for success in the early years.

Her teaching focuses on developing confident, capable learners, with particular strengths in literacy and numeracy. Rosalind encourages curiosity, independence, and resilience, supporting children to develop a positive mindset towards learning.

With a background in music and the arts, Rosalind enjoys incorporating creativity into her teaching and supporting children to express themselves with confidence.

Rosalind’s calm, caring manner and commitment to the whole child align strongly with the values of The Cathedral Grammar School. She is dedicated to supporting each child’s academic, social, and emotional growth, laying strong foundations for their future learning journey.

Emily Shaw Year 1 Teacher

Catherine Dark Year 2 Teacher

Catherine Dark has taught a variety of classes at The Cathedral Grammar school, from preschool Music to Year 6 English, but Junior school teaching stole her heart early on in her teaching career. Catherine is currently a Year 2 class teacher and is the Specialist Music teacher in the Junior School.

Catherine believes in high-quality academic and musical education, where every child is encouraged to reach their full potential. What she enjoys most about teaching Year 2 is seeing how much progress the children make. As they have developed maturity and independence after their first year of school, they are ready for new learning adventures. The children look up to their Year 3 role models and aspire to become Junior School leaders the following year.

Catherine believes the key to any child’s learning is their happiness. When they bounce into school each day knowing that they are coming to a welcoming and nurturing environment with a teacher who cares for them, their learning and confidence flourishes.

Lisa Buck Year 2 Teacher & Dean of Junior School

Lisa Buck holds a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning and brings fourteen years of dedicated teaching experience to her role. Passionate about pastoral care, academic excellence, and fostering self-worth in every student, Lisa is committed to making a profound impact in the lives of her students.

Her teaching philosophy centers on creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where students are empowered to excel through engaging and child-centered learning experiences. Lisa's expertise spans multiple year levels, with a particular strength in the Junior School, where she inspires enthusiasm and dedication among her students.

With a focus on literacy and numeracy, Lisa has a proven track record of enhancing student achievement in these critical areas. Her exemplary reading practices were highlighted on the National Manaiakilani website, underscoring her innovative approach to literacy education. Previously serving as Leader of Literacy at other schools in Christchurch and contributing to the Numeracy Committee, Lisa recognises the foundational importance of these subjects in shaping students' educational journeys.

Lisa's looks forward to contributing to and enriching the strong school and community focus on developing this vital aspect of the curriculum.

Ben Cording Year 3 Teacher

Ben Cording, an experienced Year 3 teacher at The Cathedral Grammar School, renowned for his passion for Mathematics and dedication to education. Holding a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning, Ben is a skilled educator who excels in connecting with students and inspiring them through engaging teaching methods.

Ben is celebrated for his fun and innovative approach to teaching, which brings out the best in his students. His sense of humor and contagious enthusiasm create a dynamic classroom environment where learning is enjoyable and meaningful. Ben's commitment to his students' success make him a valuable asset and colleague at The Cathedral Grammar School community.

Fiona Lill Year 3 Teacher

Fiona Lill is an experienced teacher, having taught in a range of private and state schools in a variety of age levels.

Fiona began her teaching career at The Cathedral Grammar School in the Girls' School and was Dean of the Girls' School before leaving to have a family. In teaching Year 3, Fiona prepares children for smooth transitions to Year 4 and is passionate about ensuring a solid foundation is laid for each child whilst in the Junior School.

Communication is key to Fiona's practice and this is foremost in her interactions with children, staff and parents.

Joanne Gill Year 3 Teacher

Joanne Gill is an experienced teacher having taught for a number of years at a variety of schools from Junior to Senior levels. She has previously taught in The Cathedral Grammar Girls’ School and was acting Head of the Girls’ School for a period of time.

Joanne has recently returned to The Cathedral Grammar School and is now teaching at Year One. Joanne is very conscious to ensure that each child’s transition to school is made as easy as possible. She is sensitive to the needs of the children and provides a programme that works successfully to motivate and inspire young learners.

Joanne also ensures that parents feel connected, and part of their child's learning journey.

Girls' Preparatory School

Amanda Botting Year 4 Teacher

Amanda Botting holds a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning and has been an experienced educator at The Cathedral Grammar School for over 15 years, teaching across the Boys' School, Girls' School, and Junior School. Her commitment to fostering a Cathedral Grammar education is evident in her dedication to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for all students. Amanda's experience spans diverse age groups and educational settings within the school, reflecting her deep understanding and passion for holistic student development.

Wendy du Toit Year 5 Teacher

Wendy du Toit is an experienced educator, bringing a wealth of expertise to her role as the Year 5 teacher in the Girls' School. With a strong foundation in education, Wendy holds a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning, which she has utilises to inspire and educate students for several years.

Wendy serves as our Curriculum Lead for Social Sciences, where her passion for fostering a deep understanding of the world shines through. She is dedicated to designing enriching learning experiences that encourage critical thinking and curiosity about the social sciences. Her commitment to education extends beyond the classroom as she actively collaborates with colleagues and parents to ensure each student receives a holistic educational experience. Her approachable demeanor and enthusiasm for teaching create a supportive environment where students thrive academically and socially.

In her role as Curriculum Lead, Wendy remains at the forefront of educational innovation, integrating new methodologies and resources to enhance the learning journey of our students. Her dedication to excellence and student-centered learning makes her an invaluable member of our school community.

Richard Larsen Year 6 Teacher

Richard Larsen's teaching philosophies are built on inclusive and caring relationships which put students learning and pastoral care at the front and centre of all decisions. His training and early career began in Wellington in which he earned a Bachelor of Performance Design with honours through Toi Whakaari, The New Zealand Drama School and Massey School of Design. Before teaching he worked within the music, theatre and film industries which saw him touring productions both Nationally and Internationally. He also spent some time living in Germany in which he worked in a leading digital animation studio.

Richard went on to gain a Post Graduate Diploma in Education from Victoria University and began teaching within the independent school sector, primarily in the middle school range. Outside of teaching his passions continue to be within the performing arts, which he utilises in creative thinking and processes across all curriculum areas.

Tracey Jones Year 7 Teacher

Tracey Jones is a dedicated educator with extensive experience in teaching both in the classroom and in the outdoors as a physical education teacher. Currently as the Year 7 homeroom teacher in the Girls' School, Tracey brings passion and expertise to her role, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.

With a keen understanding of the importance of physical activity and team sports, Tracey actively promotes a healthy and active lifestyle among her students. Her commitment to physical education goes beyond teaching skills; she instills values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance in her students.

In addition to her role as a Year 7 teacher and physical education instructor, Tracey is known for her kind and caring nature. She fosters a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where every student feels valued and encouraged to achieve their best.

As a colleague, Tracey is respected for her collaborative spirit and dedication to student success. Her enthusiasm for teaching and nurturing young minds makes her a wonderful asset to our school community.

Brigit McCormack Head of Girls' School, Curriculum Lead Mathematics and Year 8 Teacher

Brigit is the Dean of the Girls’ School at The Cathedral Grammar School and leads the Years 7 and 8 syndicate team across the Preparatory School. She also serves as the Lead of Enviroschools and the Curriculum Lead for Mathematics. With a BEd Hons degree in Primary Education from Leeds Metropolitan University in the UK, Brigit brings a wealth of experience across the primary age-range, having taught in schools in the UK, Thailand, and Singapore.

Brigit is deeply committed to fostering a love for lifelong learning and empowering students to develop essential skills. She challenges children to strive for their best, encouraging them to embrace challenges and new experiences as opportunities for personal growth.

Community-minded, Brigit actively seeks ways to collaborate and engage with the local community through her teaching programs. She values The Cathedral Grammar School's inner-city location for the diverse opportunities it offers for community involvement and enriched learning experiences.

Brigit treasures individuality and strives to cultivate an inclusive environment where students are encouraged to be courageous and develop a strong sense of identity.

Boys' Preparatory School

Dhalgren Attwell Year 4 Teacher

Introducing Dhalgren Attwell, our dynamic and experienced 4B teacher. With over a decade of experience as a Primary Classroom Teacher, Dhalgren is passionate about creating vibrant and exciting learning environments for his students.

Dhalgren's teaching career has spanned across the globe, including London, Beijing, and Ho Chi Minh City, offering him a rich cultural perspective and a commitment to inclusive education. He has extensive experience in Maths leadership and embraces the Inquiry-Based Learning approach. Dhalgren is proficient in multiple curricula, including the New Zealand National Curriculum, English National Curriculum, IB Primary Years Programme, New Brunswick (Canada) Curriculum, and American ERO Curriculum.

Dhalgren holds a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Primary) from the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, complemented by a Bachelor of Commerce (Tourism) from the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. Dhalgren believes in nurturing students in an engaging, safe, and stimulating classroom environment, fostering positive relationships and ensuring every student feels valued and included.

Nicola Bennett Year 5 Teacher

Nicola Bennett holds a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning and possesses a deep passion for our Enviroschools initiative. She is the Year 5 boys' homeroom teacher and also teaches structured literacy groups, demonstrating her dedication to both classroom teaching and specialised educational programs promoting literacy skills. Nicola is known for her compassionate and kind demeanor, actively building rapport with students to support their success academically and personally. Her nurturing approach fosters a supportive learning environment where students feel valued and motivated to achieve their best.

Simon Lean-Massey Year 6 Teacher

Simon Lean-Massey is an experienced educator, having taught in primary, secondary, and tertiary settings. He holds first-class honours degrees in law and music, a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Primary), and a Graduate Certificate in Digital and Collaborative Learning.

Simon has worked as a professional musician since his early teens and has performed with a range of local and international artists. After a decade of teaching tertiary academic and performance music, Simon worked briefly as a solicitor before completing his primary teacher training and resuming his teaching career. He absolutely believes that variety is the spice of life, and he encourages students to engage with the cultural, academic, sporting, and social opportunities available to them. As well as his year 6 role teaching role, Simon is responsible for information technology at The Cathedral Grammar School. He believes that children must embrace their curiosity and create rather than merely consume; he embraces the enhanced creative possibilities that digital and emerging technologies afford students.

Sarah Dyer Head of Boys' Preparatory School and Year 7 Teacher

Sarah Dyer is the Dean of the Boys’ School and leads the Years 4-6 syndicate team across the Preparatory School. Sarah has a Master of Education, Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Studies in Education, and a Diploma of Primary Teaching.

Sarah is an experienced, energetic primary teacher focused on developing highly effective environments to improve student learning and well being. She began her teaching in NZ before moving to England for 18 years where she taught in a range of schools and worked in the state and private sectors at senior management level with core focuses being on Curriculum Development and English.

Sarah has a passionate belief that teaching is about nurturing partnerships between students, teachers, and their whānau. She enjoys developing pathways which will enable students to thrive and creating learning environments which will support and challenge each individual. Sarah works collaboratively with her teams to foster the best possible outcomes for those at TCGS. She is community-minded and enjoys opportunities to support the choristers, assist in environmental development and sporting and cultural events that happen throughout the year.

Kate Lawrence Year 8 Teacher

Learning Assistants

Kylie Graham Learning Assistant

Kylie Graham is a highly experienced and valued learning assistant at The Cathedral Grammar School. Holding a certificate in teacher aiding from the Southern Institute of Technology, Kylie brings a wealth of skills and dedication to her role. She excels in creating strong relationships within the classroom environment, working effectively with both individuals and groups of students. Kylie's approach emphasises clear communication, understanding of student needs, and collaboration with teachers to achieve set targets and ensure consistent curriculum delivery.

With a passion for building students' self-esteem through compassion and respect, Kylie fosters an environment where students feel supported to take academic risks, leading to enhanced learning outcomes. Her extensive experience includes working with students across a broad spectrum of abilities and needs, including physical, emotional, learning, and behavioral challenges.

Anita Baker Learning Assistant

Anita Baker is a qualified primary trained teacher, bringing a diverse skill set perfectly suited for supporting students' educational journeys. Her experience has reinforced her ability to adapt quickly to diverse learning needs, approach challenges creatively, and pivot strategies as required. Anita's strength lies in building meaningful connections with students through a calm and supportive demeanor, fostering a positive and enjoyable learning environment. She is known for her positivity, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to student growth and development. Witnessing the progress of students and contributing to their educational journey brings her great joy and motivates her in her role.

Tom Nelson Learning Assistant

Ana Collins Learning Assistant

Administration Team

Vikky Millin Accounts Manager

Vikky Millin is a dedicated Finance Manager with a robust background in educational administration. Her expertise spans budget management, financial planning, and ensuring the smooth financial operations of our institution. Vikky thrives in the dynamic school environment, where each day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth. Her commitment to excellence and meticulous attention to detail contribute significantly to the efficient functioning of our school's financial systems.

Sarah-Jane Haywood Office Administrator

Sarah-Jane Haywood is the School Office Administrator. She brings extensive experience in school administration, having spent over seven years as a Principal’s PA and International Student Administrator, supporting senior leadership and the day-to-day operations of a busy school environment in previous roles.

Sarah-Jane is known for her calm, welcoming manner and strong organisational skills. She plays a key role in ensuring the smooth running of the school office, providing professional and compassionate support to students, staff, parents, and visitors.

Amy Farrant Receptionist

Amy Farrant's warm and friendly demeanor creates a welcoming atmosphere for all families and children. Amy is the first friendly face you'll encounter as you step into The Cathedral Grammar School. With a passion for creating a positive and inviting environment, she ensures that every visitor feels valued and comfortable. Whether you're a new family exploring our school for the first time or a familiar face returning, Amy's cheerful presence at the front desk reflects the inclusive spirit of our school community.

Leigh Richards Executive Assistant

Leigh Richards is the Executive Assistant to the Principal and Board of Trustees Secretary. With a background in administration and tourism, Leigh's exceptional organisational skills ensure efficient support for the Principal and the seamless support of Board meetings and associated documentation. Her attention to detail and time management skills make her an invaluable asset to the administration team.

Emma Purchas Relief Teacher/Caretaker

Emma Purchas is a multi-talented and deeply valued member of our team. With a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning, Emma brings both practical skill and teaching expertise to her dual roles as School Caretaker and Relief Teacher.

Emma's versatility and warm, can-do attitude make her a wonderful role model for our students. Whether she's supporting the daily operations of the school or stepping into the classroom, Emma embodies the spirit of care and community that defines Cathedral Grammar.

Josh Jennings Tutor and Grounds Support

Josh is our Tutor and Grounds Support team member. He completed his secondary education in 2019 and has since pursued a diverse academic journey, earning a Certificate in Health, Sport, and Human Performance in 2021, followed by a Bachelor of Architectural Studies in 2023. Josh is an accomplished athlete. He played Canterbury representative rugby throughout his teenage years and was selected for the Canterbury B team last year. He is passionate about supporting students to be their best both on and off the field.