Executive Team
Mrs. Julie Fahey
Since October 2018, I have had the privilege of cultivating a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and innovation within this vibrant community. I am a parent to Grace and Michael and I am married to Bede. Family is very important to me and St George’s is my 2nd family.
I believe every student has inherent value and the unique capacity to contribute to their community. By recognising and celebrating each student’s strengths, I work to build their confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging. This philosophy extends beyond the classroom, preparing students to lead purposeful, adaptable lives. By nurturing respect, compassion, and curiosity, I help students develop the skills and values they need to make a positive impact in an interconnected world.
Teachers are the cornerstone of my vision for a thriving school. They are integral in delivering quality learning experiences and fostering a growth mindset that encourages students to reach their full potential. I value and support teachers as professionals, encouraging reflection and prioritising their personal and professional development. Teachers model inquiry and ethical practices, exemplifying integrity and lifelong learning, and inspiring students to do the same. This collaborative approach aligns with Anglican values of service and humility, reinforcing the importance of working together for the benefit of all learners.
Since October 2018, I have had the privilege of cultivating a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and innovation within this vibrant community. I am a parent to Grace and Michael and I am married to Bede. Family is very important to me and St George’s is my 2nd family.
I believe every student has inherent value and the unique capacity to contribute to their community. By recognising and celebrating each student’s strengths, I work to build their confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging. This philosophy extends beyond the classroom, preparing students to lead purposeful, adaptable lives. By nurturing respect, compassion, and curiosity, I help students develop the skills and values they need to make a positive impact in an interconnected world.
Teachers are the cornerstone of my vision for a thriving school. They are integral in delivering quality learning experiences and fostering a growth mindset that encourages students to reach their full potential. I value and support teachers as professionals, encouraging reflection and prioritising their personal and professional development. Teachers model inquiry and ethical practices, exemplifying integrity and lifelong learning, and inspiring students to do the same. This collaborative approach aligns with Anglican values of service and humility, reinforcing the importance of working together for the benefit of all learners.
Mrs. Mel McDougall
Kia ora, I am new to the St George's team for 2025.
I teach the Year 2-3 students and am also Acting Deputy Headmaster. I have been a teacher for over 20 years and still enjoy it as much as I did when I first started my teaching career.
I have held a number of leadership positions in schools, and more recently worked for the Ministry of Education as a Senior Advisor in the Special Projects Team.
Outside of teaching I love to be outdoors in my garden and spending time having fun with my family. I have a crazy collection of pets including a sheep called Donkey and a rabbit called Margaret.
Kia ora, I am new to the St George's team for 2025.
I teach the Year 2-3 students and am also Acting Deputy Headmaster. I have been a teacher for over 20 years and still enjoy it as much as I did when I first started my teaching career.
I have held a number of leadership positions in schools, and more recently worked for the Ministry of Education as a Senior Advisor in the Special Projects Team.
Outside of teaching I love to be outdoors in my garden and spending time having fun with my family. I have a crazy collection of pets including a sheep called Donkey and a rabbit called Margaret.
Rev. Dr. Sarah Harris
My name is Sarah Harris, and I am the chaplain at St George’s school. I lead the school chapel services and teach PRS (Philosophy and religious Studies) to Year 7 and 8. I am also available to support students, staff, or families in need. Please feel free to email or phone me.
I was originally a registered school teacher in Hamilton where I specialised in music, but then I returned to university to study theology. I was so fascinated by theological study that I completed a PhD (University of Otago) where I focused in the Gospel of Luke. I have taught biblical studies at Victoria University, Laidlaw College and most recently spent 11 years as the Lecturer in New Testament Studies at Carey Baptist College.
I love the family nature of St George’s School and the way students are supported to be independent thinkers and learners. It is a joy to lead the school in the Anglican special character of the school.
My name is Sarah Harris, and I am the chaplain at St George’s school. I lead the school chapel services and teach PRS (Philosophy and religious Studies) to Year 7 and 8. I am also available to support students, staff, or families in need. Please feel free to email or phone me.
I was originally a registered school teacher in Hamilton where I specialised in music, but then I returned to university to study theology. I was so fascinated by theological study that I completed a PhD (University of Otago) where I focused in the Gospel of Luke. I have taught biblical studies at Victoria University, Laidlaw College and most recently spent 11 years as the Lecturer in New Testament Studies at Carey Baptist College.
I love the family nature of St George’s School and the way students are supported to be independent thinkers and learners. It is a joy to lead the school in the Anglican special character of the school.
Mrs. Stacey Munro
I’m Stacey Munro, Executive Assistant to Julie Fahey, Headmaster here at St George’s School.
I was born and raised in Whanganui and lived here with my family until 2000, when we moved to Brisbane, Australia. In 2017, I returned to Whanganui after meeting my now husband, and I’m thrilled to be back in the community I call home.
I’m excited to be part of the team at St George’s School and look forward to working with all the wonderful staff. Most of all, I’m looking forward to seeing the students grow, learn, and thrive.
I’m Stacey Munro, Executive Assistant to Julie Fahey, Headmaster here at St George’s School.
I was born and raised in Whanganui and lived here with my family until 2000, when we moved to Brisbane, Australia. In 2017, I returned to Whanganui after meeting my now husband, and I’m thrilled to be back in the community I call home.
I’m excited to be part of the team at St George’s School and look forward to working with all the wonderful staff. Most of all, I’m looking forward to seeing the students grow, learn, and thrive.
Cohort Team Year 0-6
Mr. Cordell Hayward
My name is Cordell (Dell) Hayward and I'm currently a Year 6, 7 and 8 maths teacher. I've been a primary school teacher for 14 years and I've taught years 5-8 at five different schools.
I have a wonderful family with two daughters, Lily who is also at St George's School and Gracie who is currently studying at Whanganui Collegiate School. We live on the outskirts of Whanganui on a lifestyle block with six alpacas. Being in nature definitely centres me!
I'm extremely passionate about sports. I love playing football, tennis, golf and when I get the chance, I enjoy skiing.
It's a great honour to be a teacher and be part of someone's journey.
My name is Cordell (Dell) Hayward and I'm currently a Year 6, 7 and 8 maths teacher. I've been a primary school teacher for 14 years and I've taught years 5-8 at five different schools.
I have a wonderful family with two daughters, Lily who is also at St George's School and Gracie who is currently studying at Whanganui Collegiate School. We live on the outskirts of Whanganui on a lifestyle block with six alpacas. Being in nature definitely centres me!
I'm extremely passionate about sports. I love playing football, tennis, golf and when I get the chance, I enjoy skiing.
It's a great honour to be a teacher and be part of someone's journey.
Ms. Vanessa Spence
Kia ora, my name is Vanessa Spence.
I started teaching at St George’s in 2024. My base class is currently Year 4 students, and my specialist core subject is Mathematics.
Moving on to teach specific subjects and classes had initially been a challenge for me but it has been great in helping me to focus and perfect my skills. It has been a great way to make connections with all the students and work connectively with all the staff. I have developed a new skillset this year that has helped to make me a better teacher.
St George’s is a great school to work at. Working across the year groups and being small in size, I was able to know who all the students were straight away. Everyone is so welcoming here.
Kia ora, my name is Vanessa Spence.
I started teaching at St George’s in 2024. My base class is currently Year 4 students, and my specialist core subject is Mathematics.
Moving on to teach specific subjects and classes had initially been a challenge for me but it has been great in helping me to focus and perfect my skills. It has been a great way to make connections with all the students and work connectively with all the staff. I have developed a new skillset this year that has helped to make me a better teacher.
St George’s is a great school to work at. Working across the year groups and being small in size, I was able to know who all the students were straight away. Everyone is so welcoming here.
Mrs. Shenay Rattray
Hi there, my name is Shenay and I have been a part of St George’s School since 2020. Prior to this, I was teaching in early childhood education but with my own family growing up I felt it time for change. Well, rather, I was stirred to be a part of change. Transitions to school were at the forefront of educational conversation at the time, and I wanted to be an advocate for the students and be a part of positive change in this space.
It has been a wonderful journey of learning and discovery, growing and evolving so far; there is so much job satisfaction in what I get to do. I love being a part of the St George’s community and it is such a privilege to be involved in the lives of our wonderful students.
Hi there, my name is Shenay and I have been a part of St George’s School since 2020. Prior to this, I was teaching in early childhood education but with my own family growing up I felt it time for change. Well, rather, I was stirred to be a part of change. Transitions to school were at the forefront of educational conversation at the time, and I wanted to be an advocate for the students and be a part of positive change in this space.
It has been a wonderful journey of learning and discovery, growing and evolving so far; there is so much job satisfaction in what I get to do. I love being a part of the St George’s community and it is such a privilege to be involved in the lives of our wonderful students.
Cohort Team Year 7-8
Mr. Colm Smyth
My name is Colm Smyth, I am originally from the Republic of Ireland but have lived in Whanganui for the past 21 years. I am Base Class Teacher at St George’s School.
I have one daughter, her name is Addison. I love to play and watch sports, particularly Gaelic Football and hurling, rugby and golf. I also love to play chess, something I started years ago at home in Ireland. I worked as an archaeologist in Ireland and Scotland for a while before changing careers to becoming a teacher.
At St George's School, teaching is more than a job — it's a passion. I love the freedom and support here to explore innovative and creative teaching methods, which truly bring learning to life for students. St George's fosters a culture where ideas flourish, encouraging both teachers and students to think beyond the traditional. This dynamic environment allows me to engage students in unique ways, making every lesson an opportunity for discovery. Being part of such a forward-thinking community is incredibly rewarding, and it inspires me to continually grow and bring fresh perspectives into the classroom.
My name is Colm Smyth, I am originally from the Republic of Ireland but have lived in Whanganui for the past 21 years. I am Base Class Teacher at St George’s School.
I have one daughter, her name is Addison. I love to play and watch sports, particularly Gaelic Football and hurling, rugby and golf. I also love to play chess, something I started years ago at home in Ireland. I worked as an archaeologist in Ireland and Scotland for a while before changing careers to becoming a teacher.
At St George's School, teaching is more than a job — it's a passion. I love the freedom and support here to explore innovative and creative teaching methods, which truly bring learning to life for students. St George's fosters a culture where ideas flourish, encouraging both teachers and students to think beyond the traditional. This dynamic environment allows me to engage students in unique ways, making every lesson an opportunity for discovery. Being part of such a forward-thinking community is incredibly rewarding, and it inspires me to continually grow and bring fresh perspectives into the classroom.
Cohort Team Year 7-8
Mr. John McIlraith
I am a proud Whanganui local and an alumnus of St George's, where I studied for 8 years, followed by 5 years at Collegiate. My wife and I are blessed with two young children. I have a deep passion for sports, actively playing cricket and golf, and I make it a point to visit the gym regularly.
At St George’s, I appreciate the ethos and values that the school upholds. The small class sizes and the students' eagerness to learn make teaching here a joy. As a Year 8 teacher, I particularly enjoy witnessing and contributing to the students' growth before they embark on the next chapter of their educational journey.
I am a proud Whanganui local and an alumnus of St George's, where I studied for 8 years, followed by 5 years at Collegiate. My wife and I are blessed with two young children. I have a deep passion for sports, actively playing cricket and golf, and I make it a point to visit the gym regularly.
At St George’s, I appreciate the ethos and values that the school upholds. The small class sizes and the students' eagerness to learn make teaching here a joy. As a Year 8 teacher, I particularly enjoy witnessing and contributing to the students' growth before they embark on the next chapter of their educational journey.
Cohort Team Year 7-8
Mrs. Felicity Smyth
The importance of education and being a life-long learner has always been instilled in me. With this in mind, I embrace continuous learning, as well as engaging in ako (reciprocal learning from student to teacher). I look forward to the stories and teaching opportunities my learners provide me which can lead to inquiry-based learning and builds critical thinking.
I was brought up and educated in Whanganui, worked and travelled after completing my Bachelor of Humanities in English and History, followed by a certificate to teach. I taught in secondary schools both in New Zealand and Scotland for nearly 25 years, before obtaining a Postgraduate degree in Learning and Behaviour (Distinction) through my role as a RTLB (Resource Teacher: Learning and Behaviour). Missing the classroom and wanting to use my developing skills, I accepted a position at St George’s School towards the end of 2022.
Personally, I am married to Colm, and we have one daughter. As a family we have all ‘attended’ St George’s School, me as a past student in the 1980’s and now as a teacher, Colm as a teacher, and our daughter attended from Year 3 to Year 8.
As an old girl of St George’s Preparatory School, I appreciate the values transferred from the Grey Street campus to the Liverpool site. These include maintaining the school song, the emphasis on the importance of the Anglican faith including bi-weekly chapel services, Year 8 leadership, the upholding of the school House system, and the provision of sporting, academic, and cultural opportunities. Our days are packed and are never the same which makes teaching at St George’s both challenging and enjoyable.
As a teacher, the smaller class numbers support my role, which is predominantly teaching literacy. Developing strong rapport with my learners, and understanding their needs and supporting their strengths, can be achieved at St George’s School. This is because we are small staff who readily support one another for the betterment of our learners, and their whanau. Having Grandparents and Special Friends mornings, as well as the Sharing of Learning days for parents to attend in-class lessons, help to build relationships outside of the classroom.
The importance of education and being a life-long learner has always been instilled in me. With this in mind, I embrace continuous learning, as well as engaging in ako (reciprocal learning from student to teacher). I look forward to the stories and teaching opportunities my learners provide me which can lead to inquiry-based learning and builds critical thinking.
I was brought up and educated in Whanganui, worked and travelled after completing my Bachelor of Humanities in English and History, followed by a certificate to teach. I taught in secondary schools both in New Zealand and Scotland for nearly 25 years, before obtaining a Postgraduate degree in Learning and Behaviour (Distinction) through my role as a RTLB (Resource Teacher: Learning and Behaviour). Missing the classroom and wanting to use my developing skills, I accepted a position at St George’s School towards the end of 2022.
Personally, I am married to Colm, and we have one daughter. As a family we have all ‘attended’ St George’s School, me as a past student in the 1980’s and now as a teacher, Colm as a teacher, and our daughter attended from Year 3 to Year 8.
As an old girl of St George’s Preparatory School, I appreciate the values transferred from the Grey Street campus to the Liverpool site. These include maintaining the school song, the emphasis on the importance of the Anglican faith including bi-weekly chapel services, Year 8 leadership, the upholding of the school House system, and the provision of sporting, academic, and cultural opportunities. Our days are packed and are never the same which makes teaching at St George’s both challenging and enjoyable.
As a teacher, the smaller class numbers support my role, which is predominantly teaching literacy. Developing strong rapport with my learners, and understanding their needs and supporting their strengths, can be achieved at St George’s School. This is because we are small staff who readily support one another for the betterment of our learners, and their whanau. Having Grandparents and Special Friends mornings, as well as the Sharing of Learning days for parents to attend in-class lessons, help to build relationships outside of the classroom.
Cohort Team Year 7-8
Mrs. Robyn Simes
My name is Robyn Simes. I am a Year 7 base class teacher. I have been at St Georges for over three years and I teach English, Health and PE. I am passionate about most sports but in particular Netball.
I enjoy coming to work each day as St George’s is a lovely small school with students who are respectful and kind. It certainly has a positive caring culture where strong values are fostered.
My name is Robyn Simes. I am a Year 7 base class teacher. I have been at St Georges for over three years and I teach English, Health and PE. I am passionate about most sports but in particular Netball.
I enjoy coming to work each day as St George’s is a lovely small school with students who are respectful and kind. It certainly has a positive caring culture where strong values are fostered.
Specialist Teaching Team
Ms. Caroline Watson
I am Caroline Watson. I am the head of Diverse Learning and teach Maths.
I have been a teacher for 37 years. The first 30 were mainly teaching science, maths and coaching sports. My new training involved learning more about diverse teaching skills. Most of my lessons involve helping students fulfil their potential with individual learning needs being the focus of each session. I still love my sport, but with aging, golf has become my sport of choice!
I like working at St George's because we have smaller class sizes, have the freedom to follow student interests and being in a small school we get to know all the students and families in our school community.
I am Caroline Watson. I am the head of Diverse Learning and teach Maths.
I have been a teacher for 37 years. The first 30 were mainly teaching science, maths and coaching sports. My new training involved learning more about diverse teaching skills. Most of my lessons involve helping students fulfil their potential with individual learning needs being the focus of each session. I still love my sport, but with aging, golf has become my sport of choice!
I like working at St George's because we have smaller class sizes, have the freedom to follow student interests and being in a small school we get to know all the students and families in our school community.
Mrs Lysha Brennan
My name is Lysha Brennan, and I am thrilled to be the new Teacher of the Arts at St Georges’ School. In addition to teaching The Arts, I also teach Year 5 English and Library, as well as Year 4-5 and Year 5-6 Global. I am passionate about education and committed to fostering a love of learning while meeting the diverse needs of all ākonga.
My teaching philosophy is centered around creativity, engagement, and student-led learning. I believe in the power of the arts and play-based pedagogy, incorporating the six principles of effective teaching to create meaningful learning experiences. Relationship-based learning is at the heart of my approach, ensuring that student voice, strengths, and interests shape the learning journey. I am also deeply interested in science and environmental education, encouraging students to explore and understand the world around them.
I hold a Degree in Fine Arts and a Graduate Diploma in Primary Teaching, combining my artistic background with my passion for education.
I have lived in Whanganui since I was six and am proud to call it home. I am married with three children and four grandchildren. As an artist, my work is inspired by childhood memories, creating vintage dress collages interwoven with Aotearoa’s flora and fauna alongside introduced species. My art highlights the delicate balance of New Zealand’s biodiversity, raising awareness of the threats posed by invasive species. Beyond the classroom and my artwork, I love reading, gardening, making jewellery, mosaics, and baking.
I look forward to sharing my passion for the arts and fostering creativity in our students at St George’s School.
My name is Lysha Brennan, and I am thrilled to be the new Teacher of the Arts at St Georges’ School. In addition to teaching The Arts, I also teach Year 5 English and Library, as well as Year 4-5 and Year 5-6 Global. I am passionate about education and committed to fostering a love of learning while meeting the diverse needs of all ākonga.
My teaching philosophy is centered around creativity, engagement, and student-led learning. I believe in the power of the arts and play-based pedagogy, incorporating the six principles of effective teaching to create meaningful learning experiences. Relationship-based learning is at the heart of my approach, ensuring that student voice, strengths, and interests shape the learning journey. I am also deeply interested in science and environmental education, encouraging students to explore and understand the world around them.
I hold a Degree in Fine Arts and a Graduate Diploma in Primary Teaching, combining my artistic background with my passion for education.
I have lived in Whanganui since I was six and am proud to call it home. I am married with three children and four grandchildren. As an artist, my work is inspired by childhood memories, creating vintage dress collages interwoven with Aotearoa’s flora and fauna alongside introduced species. My art highlights the delicate balance of New Zealand’s biodiversity, raising awareness of the threats posed by invasive species. Beyond the classroom and my artwork, I love reading, gardening, making jewellery, mosaics, and baking.
I look forward to sharing my passion for the arts and fostering creativity in our students at St George’s School.
Mrs Alysa Ellis
I'm Alysa, a passionate primary school teacher from Whanganui with12 years of experience, specializing in junior-level education. I loveinspiring young minds and creating a supportive, engaging learning environmentwhere students can reach their full potential. Outside the classroom, I enjoysports, spending time outdoors, and making memories with family and friends.
I'm Alysa, a passionate primary school teacher from Whanganui with12 years of experience, specializing in junior-level education. I loveinspiring young minds and creating a supportive, engaging learning environmentwhere students can reach their full potential. Outside the classroom, I enjoysports, spending time outdoors, and making memories with family and friends.
Pāpā Terence Matthews
Tihei Mouri Ora
I am from two lines of descent, namely Ngā Paerangi from the Whanganui River and Ngā Rauru Kiitahi.
My name is Terence Matthews and my role is Tikanga Advisor.
I was born, raised and educated in Whanganui and attended Hato Paora Māori Boys College in Fielding.
In my youth, I worked alongside whānau in the shearing sheds and the forestry blocks of Waitotara Valley and the Whanganui River.
I worked in the Health Dept for 13 years, departed and returned to the Public Health and Māori Health sector in 2011 and continued service for a further 14 years.
I’m an advocate for Healthier Active Lifestyles and my passion includes…
- Crossfit
- Kapa haka
- Mentoring / coaching sports teams
- Touch Rugby
- Māori play games
- Rangahaua (Research) Te Ao Māori / Social Anthropology
This placement will be my first year at St George’s and I’m ready to add value and make a positive impact.
Mouri Ora
Tihei Mouri Ora
I am from two lines of descent, namely Ngā Paerangi from the Whanganui River and Ngā Rauru Kiitahi.
My name is Terence Matthews and my role is Tikanga Advisor.
I was born, raised and educated in Whanganui and attended Hato Paora Māori Boys College in Fielding.
In my youth, I worked alongside whānau in the shearing sheds and the forestry blocks of Waitotara Valley and the Whanganui River.
I worked in the Health Dept for 13 years, departed and returned to the Public Health and Māori Health sector in 2011 and continued service for a further 14 years.
I’m an advocate for Healthier Active Lifestyles and my passion includes…
- Crossfit
- Kapa haka
- Mentoring / coaching sports teams
- Touch Rugby
- Māori play games
- Rangahaua (Research) Te Ao Māori / Social Anthropology
This placement will be my first year at St George’s and I’m ready to add value and make a positive impact.
Mouri Ora
Support
Miss. Gemma Sharrock
I was born in Whanganui and lived here my whole life. I am an Administration Assistant at St Georges School.
I have one daughter called Olivia, my partner is a local builder here in Whanganui. In our spare time we like to hang out together as a family, spend time with friends or explore the beautiful City we live in. I am excited to be apart of the St George’s Team and work together with the staff and families.
I was born in Whanganui and lived here my whole life. I am an Administration Assistant at St Georges School.
I have one daughter called Olivia, my partner is a local builder here in Whanganui. In our spare time we like to hang out together as a family, spend time with friends or explore the beautiful City we live in. I am excited to be apart of the St George’s Team and work together with the staff and families.
Mr. Zeb Small
My name is Zeb Small, and I am a Learning & Sports Assistant in the Diverse Learning Team. I have a strong passion for maths and sport. I enjoy helping students reach their full potential and I take pride in watching the students grow in both their learning and personal development. St George's is a great place to work because it values inclusion, growth, and academic success.
The school’s focus on building confidence and nurturing individual strengths aligns with my own values and motivates me every day.
My name is Zeb Small, and I am a Learning & Sports Assistant in the Diverse Learning Team. I have a strong passion for maths and sport. I enjoy helping students reach their full potential and I take pride in watching the students grow in both their learning and personal development. St George's is a great place to work because it values inclusion, growth, and academic success.
The school’s focus on building confidence and nurturing individual strengths aligns with my own values and motivates me every day.
Hi, I'm Bruce Butters, the school's van and bus driver, serving the Waverley students and occasionally helping out with school-based field trips. I was born and schooled in Whanganui, and my career in the health sector has taken me all over the motu (country). I returned to Whanganui in the early 2000s to be closer to my elderly family. I love spending time with my daughter and grandchildren who are still in town. I'm also actively involved in Waka Ama at both local and national levels.
The support I receive from St George’s is unsurpassed, from the teachers, Headmaster, and administration staff. It's fantastic to get waves, car-light flashes, and smiles from students and parents, both past and present, some of whom I don't even know directly. This is what makes the St George’s family so special.
Hi, I'm Bruce Butters, the school's van and bus driver, serving the Waverley students and occasionally helping out with school-based field trips. I was born and schooled in Whanganui, and my career in the health sector has taken me all over the motu (country). I returned to Whanganui in the early 2000s to be closer to my elderly family. I love spending time with my daughter and grandchildren who are still in town. I'm also actively involved in Waka Ama at both local and national levels.
The support I receive from St George’s is unsurpassed, from the teachers, Headmaster, and administration staff. It's fantastic to get waves, car-light flashes, and smiles from students and parents, both past and present, some of whom I don't even know directly. This is what makes the St George’s family so special.