College — Staff — Horizon School

Paul Dawson

Bachelor's Degree in Business Admin, MBA, Diploma in Teaching (secondary)

Originally starting life overseas, I grew up in Los Angeles and I have also lived in San Francisco and London. I then made the move to New Zealand in 2019. I am married and have two daughters who are students here at Horizon.

I teach Maths, Business Studies, STEM, and Formation. I enjoy empowering and encouraging young people.

My hobbies include rock-climbing, snowboarding, spear-fishing, wakeboarding, and SCUBA diving.

Collegewww.creed.nzMay 5, 2024Teacher

Roushan Johnson

BA (Hons) Air Transport Management with Commercial Pilot License, BEng Aerospace Engineering, PG Diploma Secondary Education (Maths and Science)

Originally from Wales, I trained to be a pilot originally – studying in the UK and America.

I teach Maths, Physics and Engineering. In 2024 we have introduced Evolocity – a connected programme where senior students study both tech and physics credits whilst carrying out hands-on learning to build a motorised vehicle. I love that at Horizon we combine year groups and subjects so that the learning the students do is connected to real life rather than siloed

I love football. I play football for Warkworth Football Club and help Warkworth fun football league, where I am currently coaching my sons team 'Arsenal'.

Collegewww.creed.nzMay 2, 2024Within School Leader Mathematics, Data Manager, Teacher

Deborah Steele

BA, BTchg (Secondary) Dip Christian Leadership

I am a rural girl at heart. Being brought up on a farm in Northland meant I learnt the value of hard work and team work. I love all things nature and love adventures - especially travel! I love spending time with my husband and two girls – camping, hiking, water activities!

As the Assistant Principal, I aim to see students and staff flourish and thrive at Horizon School. People matter to me and it's why I do what I do. I love the family vibe at Horizon and the way that people are able to belong, no matter their differences.

Performing Arts is a passion of mine. I write plays, perform, direct, and especially love musicals.

College, Leadershipwww.creed.nzApril 29, 2024Assistant Principal (Acting), Teacher

Robin Stephen van Niekerk

Bachelor of Education (Honours), Bachelor of Arts, Primary Teacher Diploma

I am originally from Durban, South Africa. I arrived in New Zealand in 1997. I am married to Odette and we have two sons, Byron (38) and Lance (35)

My primary role is to teach and support the students in front of me. However my pastoral role at Horizon School depends on me establishing good relationships with my colleagues, the students and their whanau. I enjoy the "challenges" of successful dispute resolution.

My work-life balance is maintained by my involvement in sport. I referee adult football on Saturdays, enjoy watching UFC and most importantly, spending time with my wife and sons.

College, Leadershipwww.creed.nzApril 26, 2024Assistant Principal, Teacher

Sarah Welch

Bachelor of Science (Biology), Bachelor of Arts (History) Grad Dip Teach

Originally from Snells Beach, I spent time in Wellington for University and South Auckland where I taught for 7 years. In 2017 I returned to Snells Beach with my husband and two daughters who go to Horizon.

I love teaching and can't imagine ever doing anything else. It is such a privilege to walk alongside these fabulous young people during their years at College. I love that at Horizon the students are known and that their interests and passions are encouraged.

Outside of school, I love to go camping or spend time at the beach with my whānau. I also enjoy baking, reading, David Attenborough docos, and learning photography.

Adrien Alldridge

Masters in Geography, Post-Graduate Certificate in Education.

I have recently returned to teaching having spent the last 20 years in church leadership, first as a Youth Pastor and most recently as Lead Pastor of a church my wife and I started in Bournemouth, on the south coast of England.

I’m really excited to be back teaching, and am enjoying trying to get the very best out of the Year 9 and 10 students in the College. I love to encourage and empower people in the hope that they can flourish and thrive. My wife is on staff here and our 3 children attend the school as well, so our whole family are at Horizon, and we all love the very special culture and community here.

Collegewww.creed.nzApril 20, 2024Teacher

Steve Pound

Collegewww.creed.nzApril 17, 2024Automotive Teacher

Maya Foster

Bachelor of Education (Hons)

I am from the UK and trained as an Art, Design and Technology teacher. I moved to New Zealand 18 years ago with my husband and daughter to teach Technology at Rangitoto College.

I joined Horizon college last year to teach Visual Art. I am delighted to be teaching in my passion subject again and feel that I have 'come home'. I love working with Horizon students as they are eager to practise their God-given skills of creativity with genuine integrity.

In my spare time I love to create in a variety of media. I'm currently hooked on crotchet and harakeke has woven its way into my life!

Collegewww.creed.nzApril 14, 2024Art Teacher, Specialist Classroom Teacher

Maddie Long

PGCE Secondary Education, Ba HONS Design Technology for the Fashion Industry from the London College of Fashion

I'm originally from the UK. I came to New Zealand with my husband 18 years ago to teach at Mahurangi College. After some years raising a family, then working as a magazine editor I decided it was time to return to teaching.

I love thinking up new and exciting ways for students to experiment and learn. I find the school very caring and the students have a great sense of humour with a willingness to try new things.

Dog walking, shopping, watching movies, eating and playing cards with my family – that would be my ideal day!

Collegewww.creed.nzApril 11, 2024Teacher

Simon Adams

College, Supportwww.creed.nzMarch 21, 2024Caretaker, Teacher Aide

Gael Adamson

Bachelor of Education

Originally from Scotland, I had the luck to meet and marry a young man from New Zealand while I was travelling. We have two boys who went to school locally but have since flown the nest.

I love the variety of my role in looking for ways to support students across years 0-13. There is no one-size-fits all, so I am on a continuous quest to up-skill, to understand and discover the best way forward for individuals.

Outside of school I enjoy spending time with family and friends. If the weather is right, you can find me either on or in the sea, or in the bush getting amongst nature.

Primary, Collegewww.creed.nzMarch 15, 2024Learning Support Coordinator

Michelle Diprose

Diploma in teaching, certificate in life coaching

My family moved to Snells Beach 23 years ago to start up an alternative education school. I love what the smaller community vibe brings, meeting new people and keeping active with my family.

The combination of teaching and life coaching led me to being a Wellbeing Coach at Horizon 2 days a week. I believe students need a safe place where they feel they belong and their strengths are celebrated.

I like nothing better than to connect with friends and family and enjoying what our community has to offer. One of my greatest achievements was walking Base Camp a few years ago.

College, PrimaryPhil HoughtonMarch 12, 2024Wellbeing Coach

Marli Nadéle Finlay

I am married, and a mother of four sons. My family and I relocated from South Africa in January of 2018.

I am a teacher's aide, and I thoroughly enjoy assisting children who require additional support. It brings me great joy to witness their progress and development.

I am a person who prefers the comforts of home. I find great pleasure in reading and crocheting. Additionally, I truly value the infrequent chances to engage in social interactions with my friends. I cherish the moments spent with my family, whether it be on the farm or embarking on exciting adventures.

Primary, Collegewww.creed.nzMarch 6, 2024Teacher Aide, Educational Support