Our Teachers & Staff
Lisa Small
Principal - Tumuaki
I have worked in schools for 24 years, 10 of those teaching in England where I was born, 13 teaching in New Zealand and recently begin my journey as principal. I have very high expectations of academic achievement but more importantly that children are supportive of their friends and try their best. I consider it important that our Mercy Values are central to all we do. I pride myself on the positive relationships I build with our parents as we work together to build confident, kind children on their ‘pathway to the world’.
I am married to Nick who is also a teacher and I have a gorgeous daughter whose inquiring mind keeps me on my toes.
Louise Parsons
Room 1 Teacher - Kaiako
We are delighted to welcome Louise to St Bernard's, and look forward to having her as part of our wonderful community.
Ottilie Wilson
Room 2 Teacher - Kaiako
I am passionate about working with children and creating learning environments where the students feel inspired and supported. I aspire to be a teacher who shows devotion to each student’s individual academic progress, whilst being creative, kind, and aware of the unique qualities that each child brings to the classroom. I also play the violin and enjoy bringing my love for music into the classroom.
Nick Small
Room 4 Teacher - Kaiako
I have taught in primary schools for 25 years, mainly in Catholic schools in Wellington. The majority of my teaching experience has been at the year 5 to 8 level. I have also taught years 3 and 4.
I am passionate about teaching children and helping them to achieve their potential in all areas of their learning and school life. One of my aims is to use lots of different learning strategies and resources in my classroom programme to ensure every child I teach has success in all areas of their school life. It is also great to teach in a supportive Catholic community where we work together with children and parents to develop our Mercy values.
In my spare time I enjoy listening to music, see bands playing live and following the fortunes of Arsenal FC, the Wellington Phoenix and the mighty Canterbury Crusaders. I was born in Ashburton and still consider it my 'spiritual' home. I also enjoy spending family time with my wife, my wonderful daughter and our pet cat Kruskit!
Alice Harper
ESOL and Classroom Release Teacher - Kaiako
I came to teaching after having my own children and seeing their learning and exploration of the world. I love supporting children as they gain confidence and independence in their learning. Being privileged to work with students across St Bernard’s, I enjoy providing hands-on, practical learning opportunities. As a teacher and parent, I appreciate the individualised support and care we can give students in our small school. More than a school, it is a whānau.
Katrina Bagley
Office Manager - Kaiwhakahaere tari
I have been lucky enough to be a part of this school community for the past 16 years, firstly as a parent and currently as the Office Manager.
My role is a busy and varied one, but I get the most enjoyment out of helping and getting to know all the children (and their families) as they begin their school journey with us, and then all the way through until they finish it as mature, knowledgeable and confident teenagers ready for college.
Fr Doug Shepherd
Parish Priest - Tohunga pariha
Father Doug Shepherd is our parish priest. He has been a priest for 7 years and in his previous life was a teacher and primary school principal. Father celebrates Mass with us and visits our classes. Father makes us laugh and shares stories that help us learn about Jesus.