Ursula Christel

BA Fine Art/Art History, Diploma in Education

I began my teaching career in South Africa as an enthusiastic 21yr old, teaching Art and Art History in several large schools in the public and private sector – with a brief return to uni to complete a year of Architecture.

After moving to New Zealand in 1996, I became a stay-at-home mum, raising three wonderful sons. My middle son has a rare neurogenetic condition (Angelman syndrome) and requires 24/7 care. This immersed me into the enriching but complex world of disability. To balance my role as a parent-caregiver I worked on a wide range of small, freelance projects - as a practicing artist, writer, set designer, tutor and a disability & inclusion advocate.

I am thrilled to be returning to teaching this year - to share my passion for Art and creativity with the students and the wider school community. I really appreciate the integrated, holistic and inclusive approach to education at Horizon School and look forward to getting to know the students. I am based in the College, teaching Art and DVC in the Enriched programme.