The Board of Trustees is an elected group made up of members of the school community.
The BOT is responsible for:
- The governance of the school
- The making, reviewing and implementing of policies
- Accountability for the correct use of government funds
- The maintenance of the school property and buildings
- Consultation with parents
- Working with the principal and staff for excellence at the school
The Kaikōura Suburban School BOT Team
Sarah Chann
Presiding Chair
I joined the Board in May 2023 after working as the board Secretary for the prior 18 months. I was intrigued about how school governance worked before I became the secretary and my understanding naturally transitioned into a position on the board as the Presiding Member. I run my own business offering embodied trauma resolution, weaving together nervous system regulation, spirituality, and energy work. I am endlessly fascinated by how the human body works. I also copy edit theses for Masters and PhD students. I am happy to be contacted about Board related matters at any time.
Delwyn Riding
Tumuaki/Principal
Tena koutou katoa
It is my privilege to successfully lead learning here at Kaikōura Suburban School. I have high expectations for all of our learners, ensuring our students embrace the outdoors and learn immersed in their natural environment. I am committed to our community and believe in our collective wisdom. I moved here from Taranaki in search of adventure and to experience the natural beauty of this place I now call home.
Mitch Fearnley
Property Portfolio
I’m Mitch Fearnley and I’ve been a resident of Kaikōura all my life. I truly believe that Kaikōura is the perfect place for my family to grow up, nestled between the mountains and the sea, offering endless outdoor opportunities. There’s no place I’d rather call home. My family and I are already well involved with the school, and my wife Lauren and I are committed to providing the best possible experiences for our two children, Louie (3), and Frankie Rose (8) and currently attends Kaikoura Suburban School. Professionally, I am an architectural designer and have successfully run my own business for 19 years. I am known for my practical approach and knack for finding innovative solutions. Outside of work, I am an avid outdoorsman, enjoying activities like adventure racing, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, packrafting, diving, and skiing. My passion lies in improving our school and community environment to ensure everyone has access to the best education and school experience. I believe my skill set and passion bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.
Sharyn Smith
Staff Representative
Hello to the Kaikōura Suburban school community. My name is Sharyn and I consider myself to be very privileged to teach the Titi Year 2 and 3 children. A little bit about myself. I am a Kaikōura local, in fact my mum along with all her brothers and sisters were pupils at Suburban. I have been away teaching in Christchurch and Cheviot and am very happy to be back where I belong. I tried a short stint of retirement but it definitely wasn’t for me so I was thrilled to get a position at Kaikōura Suburban. I have two children and three amazing grandchildren whom I love spoiling and spending time with. Suburban school is a wonderful place to work and I look forward to working alongside of our FORCE learners.
Katerina Fee
Member
Hi, I’m Kaca. I’ve been living in Clarence since 2011 with my husband and two children. I think the Kaikōura area is a beautiful place with a great community. And I feel privileged to be in a position to give a little back.
Alicia Guthrie
Secretary
Hello, I am Alicia Guthrie, I am the Secretary on the Board as well as on the Home and School Committee. Whilst my children are at school, I hope to be involved in seeing all children excel and contributing to make it a better place.
Lydia Boyd
Member
Hi everyone,
For those that don’t know me I am Lydia, mum to two energetic boys, Tyler and Trent, who are fourth generation attending Kaikōura Suburban school. Our family runs 2 dairy farms on the Kaikōura flats and I am also a teacher at the Montessori preschool. I have a love of the outdoors and enjoy going down the beach, fishing, cooking and listening to music. I am an energetic and driven member of the schools BOT and strive to make a difference through my commitment to the school and wider community.
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