Kahikatea Team

Kia ora, my name is Cara Rankin and it is my privilege to be the proud Kahikatea Team Leader , Deputy Principal and Curriculum Lead of Woodleigh School. I am an experienced classroom teacher of 32 years, teaching a wide range of students across the levels. I am proud to have been associated with Woodleigh for 17 wonderful years, having had both of my now adult children journey through their primary years at Woodleigh. I believe our job as teachers is to foster a love of learning, encourage curiosity and to provide students with multiple opportunities in discover their talents. Outside of school I thoroughly enjoy spending time with friends and family in both New Plymouth and my home town, Christchurch. I love to entertain, have a passion for retro items and seem to accumulate pets more often than I should. Ngā mihi nui, Cara Rankin

Kia ora koutou whanau Ko Kelly Fryer Tōko Ingoa. I am currently a Year 3 and 4 teacher and part of the Kahikatea Team. I aim to create a vibrant learning environment where children feel safe to give things a go and have fun. I think it is important to build positive relationships, to promote self-esteem and to create a sense of belonging so that great ako can take place. I am passionate about Te Ao Māori and incorporate it in all my teaching, I also am teaching support for our Kapa Haka Roopū. Outside of teaching I am a dedicated Mum who is always on a sports field with three busy boys. My husband and I enjoy spending quality time as a whanau travelling, gardening, attending sports events and concerts all while slowly renovating our home. I am a keen art collector so you will often see me checking out an exhibition! I have passion for fashion and love a good op shop – I look forward to meeting you - Rūma 13’s door is always open. Ka kite wawe koe Kelly Fryer

Kia ora, my name is Marie Fleming. I am working part time at Woodleigh School in the Kahikatea Team. I have the pleasure of working in Room 15 on Fridays. One and a half days a week I take small groups of children for literacy, numeracy and an extension group. I also cover our team's classroom release days. I enjoy working across the Kahikatea team as I get to know the children and value the relationships I have with them and can help them reach their potential. I have a strong background in numeracy and literacy and am passionate about teaching these subjects. I also enjoy teaching science as it is exciting to see the children's enthusiasm and curiosity in this area. My family and I live on a lifestyle block which takes up most of our spare time. We have four children, two are at University and two are at secondary school. As a family we enjoy traveling together and discovering new places. One of my favourite pastimes is walking our dogs on the beach. Nga mihi Marie Fleming

Kia ora, my name is Faith Scott. I have had a long association with Woodleigh School, starting as a parent when my children attended the school. I have since joined the staff as a teacher in the Kahikatea team, teaching a Year 3/4 class in Room 16. My classroom programme is structured, with regular routines, so that the children can feel confident and grow their self management skills. Within this I provide opportunities to develop problem solving skills, creativity, physical skills and risk taking. Outside school hours I live with my husband and we have three adult children. I enjoy reading and catching up with friends in my spare time. I am also the biggest groupie at any events that my children participate in. Ngā mihi nui Faith Scott

Kia ora, my name is Rhiannon Moon. I am incredibly excited to be joining the Woodleigh whanau as a year 3/4 teacher. This is my first year of teaching, so this year is very special to me and I can’t wait to make amazing memories with the ākonga in my class. I believe it is incredibly important to provide an inclusive environment, where everyone feels safe, happy and valued. I am very passionate about positive hands-on learning, with my favourite subjects being art, PE and writing. Outside of school I love spending quality time with my partner, whanau and my horse. My main passions include hiking, horse riding, running, netball, swimming at the beach and reading a good book. Ngā mihi nui Rhiannon Moon.

Kia ora, my name is Elly Trowbridge and I’m proud to be teaching a Year 3/4 class in the Kahikatea team. I’m a beginning teacher—fresh out of university—and absolutely thrilled to start my teaching journey here at Woodleigh.I completed my final placement at Woodleigh last year and instantly felt at home, thanks to the strong culture, supportive community, and welcoming whānau. In Rūma 12, I aim to create a fun and vibrant space where tamariki feel safe, supported, and confident to give things a go. I believe in building strong relationships, encouraging self-confidence, and fostering a sense of belonging—because that’s when great learning happens. I have a background in dance and performing arts and love bringing creativity into the classroom. Outside of teaching, I enjoy baking, dancing, skiing, beach swims, reading, and planning future travel adventures. I’m excited for the year ahead—Rūma 12’s door is always open! Ngā mihi, Elly Trowbridge