Secondary teachers
Ava ASBY
Location: For the past 20 years, Rotorua has been more than just a place to live; it has been our home. Both our children were raised here, surrounded by Rotorua’s vibrant Māori culture, and have since graduated from Otago University. Rotorua, the heart of the North Island, offers a unique and rich cultural experience that I deeply value. Living here, I’ve even picked up some Te Reo Māori, which has helped me feel more connected and welcomed by the community. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting incredible locals who have made our family’s journey in Rotorua unforgettable. Although some of these cherished friends have since passed, I remain grateful for the aroha, respect, and support we’ve received in making this city our home.
Academic qualifications
1. Victoria University / Te Herenga Waka / PPTA.. 2024 - Ongoing
Effective Mentoring Practices. Contemporary Secondary Teaching Approaches for Aotearoa New Zealand.
2. Massey University / Te Kunenga Ki Purehuroa. 2017.
Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Secondary).
3. Open Polytechnic of New Zealand / Kuratini Tuwhera Aotearoa. 2015 - 2016.
Graduate Certificate in Primary Science Teaching (Curriculum).
4. Waiariki Institute of Technology / Toi Ohomai. 2006 - 2008.
New Zealand Diploma in Business.
5. Odessa National Technological University. Ukraine. 1987 - 1992.
Master of Food Science and Engineer. (Accredited by NZQA as Bachelor with Honours, Massey University)
Current position
I am currently a Science and Chemistry teacher at Western Heights High School, where I bring my passion for teaching and science to the classroom. Since graduating from Massey University in 2017 and beginning my full-time teaching career, I’ve developed seven comprehensive student workbooks for junior science, which continue to support both students and teachers today. These workbooks proved invaluable during the COVID-19 lockdown, offering structured resources and continuity for our students' learning. They’re also a helpful guide for new teachers, providing planning and lesson support.
Over the years, I've taken on additional roles, including teaching senior ESS, L2 Chemistry, and L2-3 Technology. I’ve developed four assessment booklets for technology classes, each aligned with senior-level Learning Outcomes. My work includes the coordination of course assessments and the organization of learning resources to keep our curriculum dynamic and effective. I’m excited to continue fostering educational growth within our community.
Active teaching experience
With seven years of teaching experience, I have a deep passion for guiding my students toward progress and success. In my early years, I was entrusted with challenging student groups, and through persistence and encouragement, I motivated them to see the transformative power of education. My experience spans both junior and senior curriculum, including teaching Levels 2 and 3 ESS, where I achieved notable growth in external exam performance. Prior to my involvement, no students passed these exams, yet under my guidance, the class saw a significant turnaround, with some students even achieving Merit grades.
Recognizing my efforts, the school’s senior leadership entrusted me with senior Level 2 and 3 Technology classes, including Level 2 Chemistry. Since taking on Level 2 Chemistry, I’m proud to have contributed to a 20% improvement in student achievement. I am dedicated to inspiring continued growth and achievement for all my students.
Governance experience
Over my 25-year career, I’ve held a diverse range of roles, from entry-level positions to running my own business and contributing to both secondary and tertiary education sectors. This journey has given me a strong understanding of both employee perspectives and governance dynamics.
I successfully launched and ran a retail business from scratch for over five years, managing everything from import/export and stakeholder relations to finance. My business plan earned ANZ Bank’s confidence, securing startup credit, which I fully repaid, a testament to my financial acumen.
I believe that accountability, fairness, transparency, and independence are vital for any successful enterprise, including education. Though governance opportunities are limited in my teaching role, I have experience on the School Lunch Program decision-making team, where I contributed to managing a multimillion-dollar initiative. This blend of business and educational experience has equipped me with robust planning, financial management, and strategic decision-making skills.
Personal interests
Education has always been my true passion, as reflected in my academic achievements and ongoing qualifications. Each milestone in my educational journey has equipped me with new skills and knowledge that continually enrich my professional life.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, walking, swimming, and going to the gym. Additionally, I have a passion for designing garments, home furnishings, and teaching these skills to younger generations. I strongly believe in passing on valuable skills so others can benefit. Family gatherings are also dear to me; they provide cherished moments of togetherness, support, and mutual respect.
Balancing these interests helps me stay motivated and grounded, and I’m committed to bringing that energy into my educational endeavours.
Profile statement
I am a dedicated educator driven to help secondary students reach their fullest potential in New Zealand’s education system. Since arriving in NZ over 20 years ago, I have become a fully qualified and experienced science teacher in Rotorua, committed to fostering lifelong learning.
If elected, I will prioritize policies that empower middle management to lead effectively, enhancing team communication and collaboration to improve student outcomes, particularly in applied sciences.
My goal is to link modern, relevant science education with everyday experiences, preparing students for today's job market. I am also passionate about advancing teacher training policies, supporting high-quality classroom management, and efficient resource planning across schools to ensure the best educational experience possible. Let’s work together to make meaningful, positive changes for our students and educators.
Simon CURNOW
Location: Blenheim
Academic qualifications
BA, Dip. Arts, Dip. Tchg.
Current position
Curriculum Leader Languages at Marlborough Girls' College, teaching French in a department teaching French, Japanese and Te Reo Maori
Active teaching experience
Selwyn College 1982-84, Rangitoto College 1985-87 Teacher of French and Classical Studies
Sacred Heart College 1987-1994 HOD Languages and Classics, University of Auckland French and Education Departments 1994-99, King's College HOD Languages 1999-2018, Berkhamsted School 2012-13 HOD French.
Governance experience
Secretary, Auckland Association of Language Teachers 1992-95, Regional Officer NZ Assn. of Language Teachers 1993-1996, Vice President NZ Assn. of French Teachers 1995-98 & 2001-04, President NZ Assn. of Language Teachers, Foreign Languages Co-ordinator Assn of Cambridge Schools in NZ, National Executive member of PPTA 2019-24.
Personal interests
Listening to music played on original instruments, watching water polo (my body won't let me play now.)
Profile statement
Kia ora koutou, no Kernowek oku tipuna.
I would like to use this position to advocate for a reduction in fees for Teacher Registration. There must be creative ways for doing this through the Ministry of Education and School Boards. If budgeted for, the real costs for the average school would not be prohibitive on a yearly basis.
A simplification of the Standards for the Teaching Profession and the Educational Leadership Capability Framework is needed. Too often these documents are used in a pedantic manner to create a rod for hard-working teachers' backs. Accountability needs to go both ways - bottom up as well as top down.
The Teacher's Council should work, in conjunction with NZQA, to attract teachers from different parts of the world to the profession. Recognition of overseas qualifications needs to be re-examined and expanded.
Kahmil DUNN
Location: Auckland
Academic qualifications
Bachelor of Laws - Waikato University,
Bachelor of Teaching Primary - Te Wananga o Aotearoa,
Level 4 Certificate in Bicultural Social Work - Te Wananga o Aotearoa
Current position
As the Head of Department for Māori this year of 2024 at Edgewater College in East Tamaki, Auckland, I have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication in this role. I have been responsible for overseeing the planning, delivery, and assessment of Te Reo Māori and tikanga programs within the school for all year levels 9-13. Ensuring a culturally responsive curriculum that meets the needs of ākonga. I have held this position for one year now, during which I have fostered a strong sense of cultural identity and academic achievement among students, while also supporting and mentoring colleagues in their professional growth where necessary.
Active teaching experience
I have 10 years of diverse teaching experience across the early childhood, primary, and secondary sectors, which reflects my passion for Māori education. For the past 5 years, I have held the position of Head of Faculty Māori at Rosehill College from 2019-2023, where I have successfully led the department and supported my students to achieve success in NCEA Te Reo Māori. Before this, I taught new entrants in the rumaki Māori unit, Te Huringa, at Finlayson Park Primary School for 1 year in 2018, and I have also taught at Nga Iwi Primary School in Māngere in 2017. In the early childhood sector, I spent 2 years teaching at Te Kōhao Kōhungahunga in 2015 - 2016, providing a full immersion Te Reo Māori environment for tamariki from newborns to preschool-aged children. Beyond my classroom teaching, I have organized kapa haka groups to compete at Polyfest in Division 3, supported whānau during tangihanga, and consistently worked to foster academic and cultural success for my ākonga. These experiences have allowed me to promote Māori language and culture across all educational levels, something I am deeply passionate about.
Governance experience
I have extensive governance experience, particularly in pastoral care and supporting Māori whānau within high school settings of which I've worked in the last 6 years mainly within Rosehill College and Finlayson Park Schools. I have actively participated in school board processes on behalf of our students and whanau, including hearings for expulsions and addressing conflicts involving students and their whānau, especially to do with processes. My role has often required me to navigate complex situations, ensuring the voices of Māori students and their whānau are heard and that tikanga Māori is respected throughout the decision-making process. This experience has strengthened my ability to mediate, advocate, and contribute to fair and culturally responsive outcomes at a governance level. Especially when leadership within school has been afraid to address the inequality and lack of access by employees, ākonga and whānau to come to an agreement.
Personal interests
In my free time, I love embracing the outdoors and especially going to the beach in summer. It allows me to connect with nature and explore new landscapes. I also enjoy playing volleyball, which keeps me energized and lets me have fun while staying fit. Swimming is another activity I’m passionate about, offering both relaxation and a great workout. When I’m not on the move, I like to experiment in the kitchen, creating and trying dishes I’ve never had before, it’s an exciting way to explore different cultures and flavours. Whether it’s the thrill of a new trail, the challenge of a game, or the discovery of a unique recipe, I thrive on variety and adventure in life.
Profile statement
Tēnā Koutou Katoa,
As an educator with over a decade of experience across early childhood, primary, and secondary sectors, and a Bachelor of Laws, I am deeply committed to supporting teachers in navigating the challenges of today’s educational landscape. I understand the immense pressure educators face, implementing ever-changing Ministry of Education policies while maintaining classroom harmony.
I have stood by teachers during their most difficult moments, including disciplinary matters that often arise from trying to do their job in increasingly complex environments. I believe it’s time to restore balance, ensuring teachers are empowered to teach with confidence while fostering respect and accountability among students.
If elected, I will advocate for fairer processes that support teachers’ professional autonomy, improved professional development to navigate policy changes, and stronger safeguards to protect teachers from undue blame. Our hardworking educators deserve a council that genuinely champions their well-being and professional integrity.
Helen Patricia FOUHY
Location: Taradale, Napier
Academic qualifications
BPhEd
Dip Tchg
Med
Current position
Deputy Principal, Taradale High School
Active teaching experience
1991-2000 Marian College, Christchurch
2001-2006 Christchurch Girls’ High School
2007-2008 Lecturer, College of Education, University of Canterbury
Governance experience
Acting Principal on Board of Trustees
Personal interests
Outdoors
Love of learning
Reading
Time with family and friends
Profile statement
Being a career teacher and proud of it, it is time to contribute to the wider profession. Teachers are at their best to support students in a safe and supportive environment which the Teaching Council has the potential to assist with. Ensuring our profession is well regarded and ensures high quality initial teacher training and support mechanisms to support a highly professional environment is important going forward.
Supporting initial teacher training and early professional years is a passion I feel needs attention in our current environment.
Willow Emmett HOLLSTEIN
Location: Ōtautahi
Academic qualifications
Bachelor of Science Majoring in Computer Science and Mathematics
Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Secondary)
Current position
Digital Technology Teacher at Hillmorton High School
Active teaching experience
3 terms at Papanui High School teaching mathematics and digital technology
1 year at Catholic Cathedral College teaching mathematics and digital technology
2 years at hillmorton high school teaching mathematics and digital technology
Governance experience
CompSoc Maths representative 2018
QCanterbury Treasurer 2018
QCanterbury Vice President 2019
QCanterbury President 2020
Rainbow representative for the Waitaha Canterbury region for the PPTA 2023-2024
Hillmorton High School PPTA branch secretary 2024
Neurodiverse representative for the Waitaha Canterbury region for the PPTA 2025
Personal interests
I manage the Hillmorton High School robotics club which is an afterschool sport club. Teams compete in monthly regional scrimmages and at yearly nationals.
I am a member of the Showbiz Showstoppers Choir which performs yearly at local rest homes and in 2024 performed at The Piano in a showcase, and at the Isaac Theatre Royal 10th anniversary concert.
I also enjoy speed puzzling which I do with my partner.
I like to do crafts such as crochet, knitting, cross stitch, and general embroidery.
I am an avid reader.
Profile statement
E te tī, e Te tā!
Tēnā koutou kātoa
Nō Airangi ōku tīpuna
I tipu ake au I Ōtautahi me te Whenua Moemoeā me Kanata
Ko Willow Hollstein tōku ingoa
He kaiako au ki te kura Tuarua o Horomaka
He tangata tiriti ahau
Nō te hunga āniwaniwa ahau
Mā whero mā pango ka oti ai te mahi
Nō reira tēnā koutou kātoa
Hi, I’m Willow Hollstein and I’d like to represent the Secondary Teachers on the Teaching Council. I am a current active member of the PPTA at a regional level and wish to make a bigger difference within the council. I want to ensure Māori ākonga don’t lose access to their culture in the classroom and do what I can to ensure teaching remains a highly valued and skilled workforce
Ngā mihi nui.
Suhil MUSA
Location: Whangarei
Academic qualifications
Master in Physics
Graduate Diploma Teaching Maths/Physics
Current position
Principal Nominee
Mathematics and Statistics teacher
Active teaching experience
Central Southland College 6 month
Whangarei Girls High School: 19 years
Governance experience
Whangarei Girls Staff rep BOT 3 years
Personal interests
reading
outdoor activities
playing cards and chess
Profile statement
Tēnā koutou katoa e ngā pouako mātauranga,
Ngā mihi mahana ki a koutou katoa mō ā koutou mahi nui ki te whakatipu i ngā tamariki me ngā rangatahi o Aotearoa. Ko koutou ngā manu taiko o te mātauranga, e kaha whakapau kaha ana mō te angitū o ā tātou tauira.
I am Suhil, an experienced and passionate educator committed to fostering excellence and inclusivity in our schools. With over 30 years of teaching experience in diverse educational settings, I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing both educators and students.
I am dedicated to creating a system where teachers feel valued, students thrive, and education remains a beacon of hope for all. Together, we can make meaningful progress. Thank you for your support.
Ngā manaakitanga,
Suhil
Stanley PROCTOR
Location: Auckland
Academic qualifications
LLB (Hon) University of Wolverhampton
UK1995, ACCA (London School of Accountancy)
Advanced Diploma in Law
LCC Diploma in Accounting 1970
Professional qualifications:
FCPA (Fellowship of the Certified Public Accountants)
FCEA (Fellow of Cost Executive Accountants) UK 1993
ACIA (Associate of Commercial and Industrial Accountants) Malaysia 1991
ACCA (Association of Certified Accountants)
1&2 Emile Woolf College 1974
ACCA (Association of Certified Accountants) Foundation Stamford College Malaysia1971
AIA (Associate of International Accountants) UK 1991
Cert TTEd (Certificate of Tertiary Teaching)) Auckland University of Technology NZ 1998
Current position
Secondary Teacher for Accounting at ELIM College 2023/2024
Active teaching experience
1993 – 1996 Systematic Business College -Teaching Law, Accounting and Finance
1997 – 1998 Auckland University - Tutor and part time lecturer in Taxation and Commercial Law
1998 – 1999 Auckland Institute of Technology Teaching Accounting and Finance
1997 – 2000 Unitec - Teaching Accounting and Finance (Part Time Lecturer)
2000 – 2007 Crown Institute - Teaching the NZ Dip Bus Financial Accounting Management Accounting, Accounting Principles, and Accounting Practice and Commercial Law
2004 – 2015 UUNZ (Part Time) - Teaching the MBA programme and off campus Bachelor of Business degree at the University of Southern Queensland New Zealand campus (USQ)
This included teaching Corporate Law, Comparative Law, Financial Accounting and Australian Taxation, as an Australian approved lecturer for Accounting and Law.
2007 – 2018 Whitireia Polytechnic (Full time Tenured) - Teaching Law, Accounting, Taxation, Corporate Finance and Investment
2016 – 2018 Ntec College (Part time} - Teaching the off campus Bachelor of Business degree for the University of Northampton (UON UK)
This included teaching Financial Reporting and Financial Management, as a UK approved lecturer for UON (University of Northampton.)
2019 – 2021 Consultant contractor to Marsdon Institute, ICL Institute, AIS Institute and UUNZ(USQ)
Teaching the following subjects:
- Leadership for business Transformation 6211,
- Strategic Business Planning 6200,
- Business Planning 5211,
- Planning and Managing Business Finances,
- New Zealand Business Environment 5213
- PG.Dip in Business – Level 8 Accounting & Finance for Executives.
- Business Law for Chartered Accountants Paper 2.114
2023 - 2024 Accounting Teacher At Elim College
Governance experience
1974 – 1976 Article Clerk - Newman Harris (Chartered Accountants) London England
1977 – 1980 Accountant - Badiani and Company (Chartered Accountants) London England
1981 – 1993 Managing Director - Planter’s Supply Agrochemical
Personal interests
Family and Church Community Groups
Profile statement
I have been a teacher/Lecturer for more than 30 years at Universities, polytechnics and PTE. I have also worked in the UK as an Accountant and managed a business of my own. I believe I can address the problems of NCEA level 1,2& 3 in Accounting, Economics and other subjects by providing the requirement needed for progressing to University and Polytechnics without over assessing. This 'bridging of the gap' I can do with my vast knowledge.
I care for the next generation.
Thank you
Stanley Proctor