Staff List

Mrs Erica Harvison
Acting Principal/ 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 Charmaine Ramos-Yee
Assistant Principal of Preschool and Lower Primary

Charmaine’s qualifications include education units taken at De La Salle University in Manila, as well as postgraduate studies and a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, with units in Educational Leadership and Management for Early Childhood Education. She has had intensive training in and exposure to the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum – Te Whariki, Reggio Emilia Approach and International Baccalaureate-Primary Years Program (IB-PYP) while working in international schools in the Philippines and New Zealand.

“Moving from my life in Manila, Philippines to the beautiful shores of Aotearoa that I now call home in 2008, has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I believe that a child’s success in the 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.”

Becky Johns
Transitional Leadership Support

Becky joined St Mark’s in 2016 and held a range of positions from teaching in both the Upper and Lower Primary, Head of Mathematics, Acting Dean of Learning Support and most recently Dean of Lower Primary. She has also taught in the UK and worked as a curriculum writer and Science consultant in Australia. Becky left St Mark’s in 2024 to spend 6 months overseas visiting family and travelling in Europe. Whilst she planned to explore new opportunities in education, the pull of St Mark’s was too strong and she is back for Term 1 to support the leadership team and staff.

“St Mark’s is an incredibly special place and dear to my heart. I am excited to be back to re-connect with all the incredible students, whanau, and staff.
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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.”

Mrs Jane Harris
Year 6 Teacher/Head of Maths and Head of Technology

Jane joined St Mark’s in 2024 as Deputy Principal, including teaching in Year 6. Jane holds the position in 2025 as Head of Mathematics and Head of Technology along with her teaching role in Year 6.  Prior to joining St Mark’s Jane held the position of Deputy Principal, Assistant Principal, SENCO, PYP Coordinator and Head of Years 3-5 over her 30 years in education at various independent schools in the Wellington Region. Jane has also recently completed her MEd in Educational Leadership and in 2025 Jane is looking forward to commencing her Doctorate in Education.

“I am enthusiastic and excited about teaching Year 6 this year. I look forward to connecting authentically with the tamariki in my class and providing exciting and enriching learning experiences that will inspire life-long learners. I welcome parents, caregivers and extended whānau to visit our classroom regularly to share in the learning journey of your child, celebrating the progress they have made throughout the year.“

Mr Milan Mrdalj
Year 6 Teacher

Milan taught as an ESOL teacher in China before moving into IB teaching in an IB PYP school in Shanghai, China. He taught there for 4 years before moving to New Zealand in 2018.

At St Mark’s School, Milan has taught a range of year groups and is currently teaching Year 6. Milan is also our ICT coordinator.

“What I enjoy most about working at St Mark’s is the culture of kindness. I try to make a safe and trusting class environment where it is okay to take risks, fail and learn from it. I enjoy sport and like to make sure there is laughter and fun in the classroom while we learn.”

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
Year 7 Teacher

Andrea joined St Mark’s in 2008. She is currently team teaching in Year 6, is  the PYP Coordinator, as well as 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.
Andrea teaches Science as a specialist subject to Year 8 every week. Across the rest of the school, science is incorporated into the classroom programme.

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

Ms Viki Zadimas
Year 8 Teacher

Viki has extensive experience teaching intermediate-aged students at several schools. She joined St Mark’s in 2015 and has since taken on various roles, including Associate Dean for Year 5-8 and Dean of Operations. Currently, Viki teaches Year 8 and Religious Education to our Year 7 and 8 students. She is also our Head of Sport and PSPE.

In addition, Viki is the Head of Netball, a sport she is deeply passionate about. She coaches our school A team and dedicates most of her winter weekends to the netball court. Viki takes great pride in organising school events, with highlights including the 9 Lessons and Carols Service and, in her previous roles, the Year 8 Leavers’ Dinner.

“‘I absolutely love teaching students—their energy and curiosity make every day unique and exciting. No two days are ever the same, and I thrive on the challenge of creating engaging lessons that make learning fun and meaningful for them. Seeing their faces light up when they grasp a new concept is the most rewarding part of my job.”

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.”

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.”

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!”

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 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.”

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.“

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.
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“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!”

Linda Muollo
Preschool Teacher

Linda has taught in Early Childhood Education and Care settings in Wellington for just over twenty years now mostly as a Head Teacher in Kindergarten.

Having recently completed her qualification in teaching Montessori Linda is passionate about focusing in on the individual holistic needs of the individual children whilst working closely with parents to collaboratively work on the hopes, dreams and aspirations they have for their child

“Having previously worked at St. Mark’s in 2008/2009 I am very excited about returning to a teaching and learning environment that creates rhythm, rituals and routines for children that is together both educational and fun.”

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 Elosie 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!”

Livia Robinson
Teacher Assistant

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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.”

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.”

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.”

Ms Viki Zadimas
Religious Education

Viki has extensive experience teaching intermediate-aged students at several schools. She joined St Mark’s in 2015 and has since taken on various roles, including Associate Dean for Year 5-8 and Dean of Operations. Currently, Viki teaches Year 8 and Religious Education to our Year 7 and 8 students. She is also our Head of Sport and PSPE.

In addition, Viki is the Head of Netball, a sport she is deeply passionate about. She coaches our school A team and dedicates most of her winter weekends to the netball court. Viki takes great pride in organising school events, with highlights including the 9 Lessons and Carols Service and, in her previous roles, the Year 8 Leavers’ Dinner.

“‘I absolutely love teaching students—their energy and curiosity make every day unique and exciting. No two days are ever the same, and I thrive on the challenge of creating engaging lessons that make learning fun and meaningful for them. Seeing their faces light up when they grasp a new concept is the most rewarding part of my job.”

Mrs Andrea Pawley
Science

Andrea joined St Mark’s in 2008. She is currently team teaching in Year 6, is  the PYP Coordinator, as well as 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.
Andrea teaches Science as a specialist subject to Year 8 every week. Across the rest of the school, science is incorporated into the classroom programme.

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

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 Jane Harris
Technology Specialst

Jane joined St Mark’s in 2024 as Deputy Principal, including teaching in Year 6. Jane holds the position in 2025 as Head of Mathematics and Head of Technology along with her teaching role in Year 6. Prior to joining St Mark’s Jane held the position of Deputy Principal, Assistant Principal, SENCO, PYP Coordinator and Head of Years 3-5 over her 30 years in education at various independent schools in the Wellington Region. Jane has also recently completed her MEd in Educational Leadership and in 2025 Jane is looking forward to commencing her Doctorate in Education.

“I am enthusiastic and excited about teaching Year 6 this year. I look forward to connecting authentically with the tamariki in my class and providing exciting and enriching learning experiences that will inspire life-long learners. I welcome parents, caregivers and extended whānau to visit our classroom regularly to share in the learning journey of your child, celebrating the progress they have made throughout the year.”

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 Elosie 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

Mr Bernard Quinn
Caretaker

Bernard, our school caretaker, has been integral to our school since 2018. With a wealth of experience and a passion for maintaining a clean and welcoming environment, Bernard plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of our school. Before joining our school, Bernard honed his skills in the electrical and printing industries. Beyond his duties as a caretaker, Bernard is an avid golfer who enjoys spending his weekends on the golf course and is keenly interested in online chess.

“I love working at St Mark’s; no two days are the same. I enjoy the staff, families, and of course, the children.”

国际学生主任:Chunxiao Lu
Director of Admissions & International Students 鲁春晓

Chunxiao Lu has over ten years of experience in the education industry in China and New Zealand. She possesses a wealth of intercultural knowledge and skills. She works at SEA CAPE at Victoria University of Wellington, assisting New Zealand business tertiary students to enter the ASEAN market. Chunxiao dedicated five years to the Confucius Institute at VUW, designing and delivering language programmes, organising school cultural workshops, and coordinating international trips.

Chunxiao holds CELTA and IBDP Chinese A qualifications and is a trained Chinese teacher. She has Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in teaching Chinese as a foreign language. She is also an assessor for the New Zealand Manakki Scholarship.

“As the Director of International Students, I look forward to bringing St Mark’s School to the global stage and supporting international students and families to have a wonderful experience during their time at St Mark’s.”

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”

Ms Paula na Nagara
Librarian

Paula began her career as a teacher in Aotearoa and overseas, finding it an ideal way to travel. Upon returning, she stumbled upon her true calling while working in a library, enjoying helping people explore information through books. Joining St Mark’s in 2012, she is passionate about the impact of reading on children’s development. As a fervent advocate, Paula emphasises the benefits of reading for both learning and leisure, citing accelerated vocabulary, strengthened brain connections, and enhanced insight into diverse experiences. With a deep knowledge of reading resources, she thrives on the challenge of engaging even the toughest reading critic.

“I’ve been working in school libraries since 2005. I enjoy how children respond to books – the wonder they express in finding out new facts or the creativity sparked by a new world. Reading is such an effortless and fun way to support and accelerate your child’s development I encourage all parents to get involved with their child’s reading journey.”

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”

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.”

Mr Sam Walker
Principal’s Executive Assistant

A Wellington native, Sam joins the St Mark’s Business Support Team with a Bachelor of Commerce from Victoria University. With recent experience in business operations in the not-for-profit sector and over five years in business support in the legal sector, Sam brings diverse and adaptable skills to the role of Principal’s EA. Constantly seeking opportunities to challenge himself, he is excited to embrace the culture and make a difference as part of the St Mark’s team.

“St Mark’s has been a reminder of everything I enjoyed about being at school. It has been a breath of fresh air from the corporate world, and I’m excited to fully immerse myself in the role and help make a difference here.”

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”.