LEARNING PLACE - Key Persons
Adam is one of our Contracting Kaiako, based out of Ōtepoti/Dunedin. As an experienced restaurant manager, coach, personal trainer and youth mentor, Adam is driven by his desire to see others unlock their own potential. He thrives in high pace environments and brings a cool head to situations. When teaching you will find Adam leading by example and working alongside ākonga to help them succeed. Adam may be one of the friendly faces delivering your course.
Bona is our Online Coordinator. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and is an experienced Duty Manager.
Bona handles the marking and co-ordination of our online courses. With years of experience as a Duty Manager, Bona understands the nuances of upholding the law when working on Licensed Premises. Get in touch with Bona if you have any questions about our online courses.
Emily is our Administrative Coordinator. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Art History.
Emily provides academic and administrative support for The Learning Place's face-to-face courses and manages ākonga resubmissions. She has a background in education administration as well as within the hospitality industry as a Duty Manager. Get in touch with Emily if you have any questions about school learner resubmissions.
James is one of our Contracting Kaiako, based out of Ōtautahi/Christchurch. James is an experienced Kaiako, with twenty years in the hospitality industry, having acted as judge for several national and international hospitality competitions in the categories of Cocktail, Barista Skills, and Table Service. With over fifteen years of industry training experience, James is highly valued for his easy-going nature, and ability to connect with his learners. Outside of work James is a volunteer rugby coach, and a dedicated father of two. James may be one of the friendly faces delivering your course.
Michael is our Academic Manager. He holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Teaching and a Bachelor of Arts in History and Geography.
Michael provides academic oversight for all of our operations. He has years of experience in education, and a background designing and providing alternative learning experiences for youth. With a keen focus on placing ākonga at the centre of their learning experiences, he aims to design courses which meet the needs of stakeholders and provide ākonga real world experiences that can prepare them for their future.
Sam is one of our South Island Kaiako, based out of Ōtepoti/Dunedin. Sam is passionate about facilitating the personal development of his learners, both academically and professionally. His study of psychology & sociology provides him with the skills to engage with his learners, and present his teaching in ways that are relevant to their interests. Sam teaches a range of subjects, from essential life skills like time management to workplace focused courses like leadership and bartending. Sam may be one of the friendly faces delivering your course.
Trudy is our Sales and Marketing Manager and School Liaison. Also currently studying for a Bachelor of Applied Management part-time.
Trudy's background is as a multi-unit franchisee owner who specialised in operations management, strategy development and team leadership. Trudy liaises with our school coordinators across Aotearoa New Zealand, booking courses and ensuring that every opportunity possible is available for ākonga. She also looks after our sales and marketing, and with a vision for success, she is constantly looking at ways to showcase our brand and courses.
Wendy is our resident North Island Kaiako, based out of Tāmaki Makaurau//Auckland. Originally from Scotland, Wendy is known for her friendly teaching style, and ability to connect with learners. She has a strong background in both education and hospitality, and is passionate about working with youth to clarify and develop their career pathways. Wendy has delivered a variety of hospitality based programmes at Level 3, 4, & 5, and has a wealth of experience working in hotels and hospitality around the world. Wendy may be one of the friendly faces delivering your course.
Job Titles:
- Member of Our Organisation
Yonina is our Moderation Manager. She holds Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Art History.
Yonina is a highly motivated member of our organisation, maintaining quality assurance and academic standards across our courses. Previously teaching and working in management roles as an English teacher, Yonina is an experienced educator with a deep knowledge of effective pedagogy and assessment strategies. Yonina's hard work ensures our ākonga continue to gain the best possible outcomes from our training.
Zach is one of our South Island Kaiako, based out of Ōtautahi/Christchurch.Originally from the United Kingdom, Zach is first-hand experience of the hospitality industry after working as a chef. As qualified schoolteacher, he thrives on providing hands on learning experiences for ākonga. Zach's relaxed nature and friendly approach created positive learning environments for school ākonga. Prior to joining our team, Zach has been teaching technology in school and providing tutoring services for learners wanting to upskill in numeracy. Zach may be one of the friendly faces delivering your course