Emmy Adams | Specialist Teacher
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
Kia ora koutou Shotover community!
My name is Emmy Adams and it's my honor to be the Specialist Teacher at Shotover Primary School. This means I have the honour of supporting our ORS students with a range of disabilities to access their learning environment and be included with their peers.
I have been part of the disability community my whole life as a friend and family member of people with disabilities, so celebrating and creating an inclusive world isn't just what I do, it is who I am at my core.
At 14 years old I became a student aid in the Special Education classroom at my high school and from that moment on I knew I wanted to teach students with disabilities.
I began my career working in respite care for nearly 10 years, giving families of kids with disabilities a break before going on to get my degree in Special Education from the University of Northern Colorado.
I started my teaching career working as a Special Education teacher to students with high behavior needs at a primary school in Colorado before beginning the journey to get my teaching license recognized in Aotearoa New Zealand.
I am a Kiwi-American, born in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) and moved between there and Colorado my whole life. I started coming to Queenstown in 2021 and worked four winter seasons teaching in the ski kindy Skiwiland on Coronet Peak as well as volunteering with the Adaptive Snow Program supporting people with disabilities to access the snow.
In Term 4 of 2024, I found Shotover and was blown away by what an inclusive school it is and took on the role of Specialist Teacher. I am very passionate about continuing to make Shotover a place where ALL students feel they belong and ALL minds are celebrated.
I am also very passionate about kaitiakitanga (sustainability) and help run the Enviro Club at our kura.
Aside from teaching, a few other things I love are: volunteering in the community, travel, exploring nature and listening to music.
I am so excited to be at Shotover and to learn and grow with you all!
Mai i te kōpae ki te urupa, tātou ako tonu ai.
From the cradle to the grave, we are forever learning.
Christina Brady
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
Kia ora!
I’m Miss Christina. I've been working as a learning assistant for several years supporting individuals and small groups of students in their learning. After completing a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning, I’m now proud and very excited to join the Shotover School whānau in a mentor role as well.
I arrived in Queenstown from England back in 2012 for what was meant to be a one-year adventure, but I quickly realised this beautiful place was where I wanted to stay. My family and I feel incredibly lucky to call Aotearoa home, making the most of the mountains in our back garden.
Ashlee Wesley
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
I am thrilled to be part of the Shotover Primary School team for 2026.
I will bring my own brand of enthusiasm, curiosity and supportiveness everyday.
I moved to Arrowtown from Auckland with my husband and two little boys last year. We are still pinching ourselves that we call this place home and we make the most of it at every opportunity.
Weekends are spent up the mountain, down by the river or anywhere in between.
I am big on respect, authenticity and laughter.
Please come and say hi!
Michelle Somers
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
I'm delighted to be a part of the Shotover Primary School community. It is such a welcoming and uplifting place to work and I love being part of a team that is supportive, fun and always learning from one another.
Originally from Ireland, I made Queenstown my home in 2019 after what was meant to be a one-year trip. I have taught in a variety of educational settings in the UK, Australia and New Zealand over the last 10+ years, and what I’ve enjoyed most in every role is getting to know young people, building strong relationships and helping spark joy and a love for learning.
I believe education should support the whole child. School is about helping young people grow into confident, well-rounded individuals who feel ready for the real world. I value hands-on, creative and inclusive learning that celebrates each child’s strengths, sparks curiosity and encourages them to explore, take risks and feel proud of what they can achieve.
When I’m not at school, you’ll usually find me up a mountain snowboarding or biking, or somewhere creating art, usually with a coffee close by.
Scott Bartley
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
Tēnā koutou katoa,
I’m incredibly excited to be joining the Shotover whānau here in Queenstown as I begin this new career as a kaiako. Working with our tamariki and watching them grow into incredible human beings brings me immense joy.
Before stepping into education, I spent much of my earlier career as a technology journalist in Auckland, writing about the latest gadgets, computers and software for some of Aotearoa’s most popular magazines. I later transitioned into public relations, representing some of the world’s largest technology companies.
Since then I’ve worn many hats – freelance writer, bicycle mechanic, and, most importantly, dad to two amazing (now grown) kids.
Originally from the North Island, my wife and I have called Queenstown home for over four years now, and we absolutely love it. If you’re into gravel biking, mountain biking, or hiking as much as I am, don’t be shy – say kia ora if you spot me out on the trails!
Ngā mihi nui
Scotty
Ngāpuhi/Ngāti Ruanui
Kirsty Jordan
Hello, my name is Kirsty (Miss Kirsty J at school) and I am over the moon about being a part of the Shotover team. I am originally from a small country town in Western Australia, which is where I began my teaching career. After travelling to Queenstown 6 years ago, with just my skis and a backpack, I quickly realised that I wasn’t just here for the season. I met my husband Charlie here, working for AJ Hackett Bungy and then leaped back into teaching.
I am privileged to be one of the Junior School Mentors at Shotover. I am focused on building a positive relationship with each and every student. I am dedicated to teaching and learning and together we can create a safe, supportive learning environment where students know and feel that they belong.
When I’m not at school, I love getting out and about, making the most of the snow in winter and the amazing hikes and camping spots in summer. I love that there are no snakes to worry about here!
If you see me around the school, please feel free to stop me for a chat. I look forward to meeting you!
Hello, my name is Kirsty (Miss Kirsty J at school) and I am over the moon about being a part of the Shotover team. I am originally from a small country town in Western Australia, which is where I began my teaching career. After travelling to Queenstown 6 years ago, with just my skis and a backpack, I quickly realised that I wasn’t just here for the season. I met my husband Charlie here, working for AJ Hackett Bungy and then leaped back into teaching.
I am privileged to be one of the Junior School Mentors at Shotover. I am focused on building a positive relationship with each and every student. I am dedicated to teaching and learning and together we can create a safe, supportive learning environment where students know and feel that they belong.
When I’m not at school, I love getting out and about, making the most of the snow in winter and the amazing hikes and camping spots in summer. I love that there are no snakes to worry about here!
If you see me around the school, please feel free to stop me for a chat. I look forward to meeting you!
Ally van Rossem
I am stoked to join the Shotover Primary teaching team! Seeking a change of lifestyle and new adventure, my fiancé and I moved down to Queenstown from Auckland at the beginning of 2023. Prior to this, I taught at Stonefields School and prior to teaching, I worked in marketing. I made the switch to teaching as it was something I had always been passionate about doing.
I hope to provide tamariki with an education that develops the knowledge and skills they need in today's world, while helping them develop critical thinking, creativity and social skills (and to have some fun too). I continuously learn from my students as much as they learn from me. I enjoy working collaboratively with other mentors so that every student can receive the best possible education suited to their learning needs.
When I'm not at work, I enjoy playing tennis, going mountain biking or spending time with my friends and family. I am keen for ski season and to explore the local walks and variety of activities that surround us.
I look forward to connecting with you!
I am stoked to join the Shotover Primary teaching team! Seeking a change of lifestyle and new adventure, my fiancé and I moved down to Queenstown from Auckland at the beginning of 2023. Prior to this, I taught at Stonefields School and prior to teaching, I worked in marketing. I made the switch to teaching as it was something I had always been passionate about doing.
I hope to provide tamariki with an education that develops the knowledge and skills they need in today's world, while helping them develop critical thinking, creativity and social skills (and to have some fun too). I continuously learn from my students as much as they learn from me. I enjoy working collaboratively with other mentors so that every student can receive the best possible education suited to their learning needs.
When I'm not at work, I enjoy playing tennis, going mountain biking or spending time with my friends and family. I am keen for ski season and to explore the local walks and variety of activities that surround us.
I look forward to connecting with you!
Tess Powell
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
Kia ora
My name is Tess Powell. I was born in New Zealand and have been fortunate to call Queenstown home since 2013.
I love being able to teach here and enjoy watching both my children and students have opportunities to grow in such an inspiring environment.
Creating an inclusive classroom is important to me, as I believe this promotes learning while also encouraging a sense of belonging and community for every student.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy swimming, travelling, snowboarding, and spending quality time with my family.
Fi Bracken
Kia ora tātou.
My name is Fiona (Fi for short) and I love being part of the Shotover Teaching Team. I come from Ireland where I have a number of years teaching experience, and I have been dipping in and out of the wonderful collaborative learning environment at SPS for a number of years as a relief teacher and as a full time class mentor.
My passions include my family, music and the outdoors. I am the Music Lead at Shotover and I enjoy all things musical - listening, watching, teaching & performing. I love to live life to the fullest, embracing every opportunity to learn and grow.
You will see me out and about with my family - running, biking and swimming in summer, and up on the ski fields in winter.
My philosophy is to create a learning environment that is based on trust, value and respect. I aspire to build learning focused relationships with children so that they can become the best lifelong learners that they can be.
I look forward to meeting you all - please come and say hello.
“If you dream it, you can do it” - Blades of Glory/Walt Disney
Jackie Rodgers
I have had the pleasure of being in the education sector for over 30 years, here in New Zealand and overseas. I have taught in both private and public sectors, and in both low and high decile schools. Over the past seven years, I have had the privilege of working at Wakatipu High School as an English teacher. This position included working as an Across School Lead for the Kāhui Ako. When I am not teaching, you will find me at home in Bannockburn in the garden, playing the role of Martha Stewart (without the fraud!), reading a book, mosaicing or walking the hills. I am very excited about the transition to Shotover and I am passionate about continuing my teaching and learning journey with you all.
Ruby Kay
Kia ora,
My name is Ruby Kay, and I've had the pleasure of living and teaching in Mount Maunganui for the past nine years. I am absolutely thrilled to be starting my new role at Shotover Primary School.
My passion for education lies in exploring diverse learning needs and finding ways to create an inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
When I'm not teaching, you’ll likely find me hiking, boxing, enjoying live music, or experimenting in the kitchen. I’m really looking forward to getting to know everyone and being part of this wonderful community!
Kyla McIntosh
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
Kia ora,
I recently graduated from AUT Auckland. I’ve made the move to Queenstown this November. After having been a regular visitor for the past year during uni holidays, I was fortunate enough to make the move and secure a role at Shotover Primary.
I’m a great animal lover and own a horse, which I would love to bring down soon. Horses have been a large part of my life from a young age. My family are thoroughbred trainers and breeders. I also enjoy watching and supporting the All Blacks and have played netball throughout school.
Nerolee Thurston
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
Kia Ora my name is Nerolee Thurston and I am thrilled to be a mentor at Shotover Primary.
Having originally grown up in the King Country, I have lived and taught in the Wakatipu for over a decade now. My three children are Shotover Primary students, and Queenstown is very much home.
I am excited by the school's direction and aim to create an environment where student’s love to learn and grow. I look forward to meeting you, come by and say hello.
Jasmine Hunter
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
Kia ora!
I am thrilled to be joining the team at Shotover. I’ve recently completed my first two years of teaching in Dunedin and I am excited to make the move to Central Otago. I’m passionate about creating a positive and engaging learning environment for all students.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time outdoors – whether it’s playing sports, tramping, skiing, or simply exploring new places. I’m looking forward to getting to know the staff, students, and wider school community at Shotover Primary.
Becky O'Meara
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
I am excited to be joining the Shotover team. After many years of teaching Early Childhood, I'm looking forward to this transition to Primary. Teaching is a passion of mine; I love seeing what makes all children tick and bringing out the best in each child. I have been involved with the school as a mum since nearly its beginning, and I value all that it offers to the growth and development of our children and its place in our community.
I love living in Queenstown; serving coffees on the Earnslaw was my first job here 25 years ago! I enjoy living in this beautiful area and all that it brings - spending time biking, running, skiing, family adventures, and we feel blessed to be bringing up our family here.
I look forward to meeting you and your children, and being part of their learning journey in these precious years while at Shotover Primary. Have a great summer!
Jill Hodgson
Originally from the King Country, some of my fondest childhood memories are exploring the Waipa river with my siblings. So, having moved to Queenstown at the end of 2021, I absolutely love the extreme beauty of our area and all the many opportunities to get out and enjoy it with my family.
I began teaching in Tauranga in 2016. Prior to that, studied business and psychology, travelled, worked in hospitality, and as a photographer and photographic lab technician/art printer. In 2021 I completed my Masters in contemporary education, and am currently having fun studying towards my Certificate in Nga Toi - an opportunity to practise harakeke raranga (flax weaving).
It’s a complete privilege being part of the Shotover Team with the mission to grow great humans. I love the messy human nature of learning, working with ākonga to develop their knowledge, skills and dispositions to be curious, agentic learners.
jillhodgson@shotover.school.nz
Vanessa Murphy
I completed my teaching degree and continued on with post-graduate studies in the field of literacy, numeracy and the education of gifted and talented students. I have had teaching experience in Perth in Western Australian and Alabama in the USA and taught full time at several primary schools in the Manawatu and, this year, Queenstown.
Kia ora,
I am excited to be part of the team at Shotover Primary. My family and I moved to Queenstown in 2023 and are inspired by the opportunities this beautiful part of New Zealand has to offer.
Prior to our time in Queenstown I began teaching in Auckland and worked internationally. Following that I spent 15 years living and teaching in Central North Island. These experiences have allowed me to work in rural and urban settings, with a wide range of learners from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Education Outside the Classroom, Literacy & developing rich connections through culture are all passions of mine. These learning areas offer limitless opportunities for growth. I love supporting tamariki to find a spark that ignites the learning light for them and enjoy learning alongside them. My aim is for all learners to achieve their full potential in a safe, happy and fun environment - supporting them to be aspirational, kind, creative, contributing and connected to the world around them. I place great value on building positive relationships with the tamariki in my care, their whānau and wider community.
When I’m not at school I can be found out in nature exploring, hiking, biking or skiing with my family and teenage children, or reading a great book. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your child’s learning journey.
Nicola Stephens
Kia ora,
My name is Nicola Stephens. I have been working at Shotover since 2021 as a Learning Assistant and have recently taken on the role as Mentor in Manata.
I have three children who attend Shotover Primary, and my husband and I also run an accommodation business.
I have recently completed graduate diploma in Teaching from the University of Canterbury.
Kia ora,
My name is Nicola Stephens. I have been working at Shotover since 2021 and currently teach Year 3 in Coronet.
I have three children who attend Shotover Primary and Wakatipu High School, and my husband John and I also run an accommodation business.
In my spare time, I like spending time with my family and friends, travelling, and helping the Queenstown Cat Rescue (yes, I am a bit of a crazy cat lady!!).
I am passionate about creating an inclusive, safe and fun learning environment for my ākonga to grow and feel successful.
Ngā mihi nui
Maree Wheeler
I have had a connection with Shotover since the day it opened with our eldest daughter starting on the first day... she is now at high school!
Over this time I have been part of the school community, as parent, board member and also of course, part time teacher. I have enjoyed being part of the journey as Shotover has evolved into an innovative school that values learning for all.
I have lived in Queenstown for over twenty years returning from overseas work and travel with my now husband for a season of snow - like many before us we never left! Together as a family we still enjoy the mountain in the Winter and the lakes in the Summer - how lucky to be bringing up a family in this area!
I have had a connection with Shotover since the day it opened with our eldest daughter starting on the first day... she is now at high school!
Over this time I have been part of the school community, as parent, board member and also of course, part time teacher. I have enjoyed being part of the journey as Shotover has evolved into an innovative school that values learning for all.
I have lived in Queenstown for over twenty years returning from overseas work and travel with my now husband for a season of snow - like many before us we never left! Together as a family we still enjoy the mountain in the Winter and the lakes in the Summer - how lucky to be bringing up a family in this area!