Staff – Royal Oak Intermediate

Senior Leadership Team

Caroline Shum

Tumuaki

About Me

Kia ora e te whānau o Royal Oak Intermediate. Ko Caroline tōku ingoa. I joined Royal Oak Intermediate as Tumuaki in 2025, returning to the intermediate years I first fell in love with while teaching in West Auckland. I have taught across all year levels from Year 0–8, and I am passionate about supporting our ākonga and staff to thrive. Originally from Tauranga, I enjoy spending time with whānau, reading, and relaxing at the beach.

E: principal@royaloakint.school.nz

Albra Stoltenkamp

Deputy Principal of Operations

About Me

Coming Soon

E: astoltenkamp@royaloakint.schoo.nz

Luke Coughlan

Deputy Principal of Engagement and Achievement

About Me

Tēnā koutou, I joined Royal Oak Intermediate shortly after arriving in the country in 2019 from sunny England, London. I love to stay active, surround myself with good people, and challenge myself to new learning. The more I learn the more I realise how much I am yet to learn! A favourite part of the job is seeing our young people achieving things they were never aware they were capable of. A whakatauki that resonates the most with me: Tūwhitia te hopo, mairangatia te angitū! (Feel the fear and do it anyway).

E: lcoughlan@royaloakint.school.nz

Teachers

Lee Tibble

Buchanan Teacher; Social Science Lead; Head of Performing Arts; Cultural Groups Coordinator

Room 11

About Me

Tēnā koutou katoa. He tangata purotu nō Ingarangi ahau! A proud Englishman and Kiwi, I’ve been at ROI since 2014. I enjoy spending time with my wonderful wife and beautiful daughter, and surrounding myself with good people. Relationships are at the heart of everything I do. If I’m not playing football, it’s likely I’m watching it with a cup of tea in hand. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. Up the Wahs!

E: ltibble@royaloakint.school.nz

Susie Kosi

Social Science Lead; Head of Performing Arts; Cultural Groups Coordinator

Room 10

About Me

“E lele le toloa ae ma’au i le vai” - The toloa bird flies far, but always returns to the water. This Samoan proverb speaks to who I am; no matter how far I go, I stay connected to my roots. My name is Susie, and I’m all about the vibes here at ROI, where I’ve been part of the school whānau since 2017. I believe absolutely in every child’s potential to strive for excellence. From co-ordinating 11 cultural groups to hosting major events (socials, graduations and assemblies), I pour my energy into creating spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and empowered to shine. When our young people feel they belong… they soar. Beyond ROI: I recharge through quality time with family, a good book, hiking trails, and great food with people I love!

E: Skosi@royaloakint.school.nz

Ane Carter

Buchanan Teacher

Room 14

About Me

Kia ora, my name is Ane. This is my first year teaching at ROI, and my first time in the Intermediate space. My overseas Primary School experience, along with my passion for building strong relationships, helps me create a positive, supportive classroom where students feel engaged and valued. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my 2-year-old, my whānau and friends, and exploring the beautiful places Aotearoa has to offer. I am also a total foodie, love sports, movies, TV shows, and a good book.

E: acarter@royaloakint.school.nz

Fleur Skeen

Buchanan Teacher

Room 13

About Me

Kia ora, my name is Fleur and I have been teaching at ROI for five years. Teaching has been a passion of mine since childhood, and I love supporting students to grow, achieve their goals, and challenge themselves. Seeing learners reach their potential is incredibly rewarding, and I also enjoy learning from them. Outside the classroom, I enjoy spending time with friends and family together, going for walks, watching TV, and relaxing with a cup of tea and a book.

E: fskeen@royaloakint.school.nz

Esther Curnow

Buchanan Teacher

Room 12

About Me

Kia ora, my name is Esther and I’m so excited to be joining the ROI team in 2026. Teaching truly fills my cup. I feel incredibly privileged to learn alongside our tamariki and to nurture their curiosity, confidence, and love of learning. I believe strong relationships are at the heart of teaching and that when children feel known, valued, and supported, they thrive. Outside the classroom, you’ll find me exploring beautiful Aotearoa, embracing my recent obsession with bouldering, cooking kai for my whānau, or dancing whenever I get the chance!

E: ecurnow@royaloakint.school.nz

Tigha Mitsuhashi

Jordan Team

Room 15

About Me

Kia ora, I’m Tigha, and I’m delighted to be joining ROI in 2026. Teaching others is a deep passion of mine as I love being a catalyst for growth and development. The ‘aha’ moments when something clicks is a sight that I find invaluable. Through building strong relationships with students, staff, and parents, I strive to create learning experiences that embody lifelong learning. In my spare time I like to play/watch competitive table tennis or watch movies/tv shows.

E: tmitsuhashi@royaloakint.school.nz

Nikita Parshotam

Jordan Team Leader; PE & Health Lead

Room 17

About Me

Kia ora, I'm Nikita, and I’m a teacher who loves a good laugh. My career started as a High School Health and PE teacher, but later moved to intermediate, where I've been teaching for the past 10 years. I’m the Jordan Team Leader and Head of School Sports. Being active has always been a huge part of my life, especially playing Cricket. I pride myself on building strong, authentic relationships with students, staff, and parents, and creating learning experiences that are engaging, meaningful, and most importantly, fun. In my spare time, you might find me out for a run or watching thriller movies.

E: nparshotam@royaloakint.school.nz

Kate Lovell

Jordan Team; Extra-Curricular Sport Lead

Room 18

About Me

Kia ora, my name is Kate and i’m from sunny Nelson. This year, I have taken on the role of School Sports Coordinator. I love to see students getting involved in different activities that our school has to offer and providing sporting opportunities. In the classroom, I am passionate about building strong relationships and creating a warm, inclusive environment where learners feel safe, supported and confident to give new things a go and achieve their personal best. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, baking, reading and a good netflix binge.

E: klovell@royaloakint.school.nz

Nicola Rush

Jordan Team; Science Lead

Room 16

About Me

Kia ora e te whānau o Royal Oak Intermediate! Ko Nicola Rush ahau. I love teaching Year 7 and 8’s, and believe in creating an inclusive, respectful classroom environment where every student feels a strong sense of belonging. Prior to teaching, I worked in the marine science sector and I use this experience to apply a real world lens to science lessons, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and an excitement to learn! Outside of kura, I love being in nature, watching movies, music and making ceramics.

E: nrush@royaloakint.school.nz

Mark Szmania

Binsted Team

Room 8

About Me

I am Mark Szmania, and I am originally from Houston, Texas. I moved to Auckland in 2018 with my partner who decided to return back home. I have been teaching for 5 and a half years here at Royal Oak Intermediate, and I value curiosity and critical thinking in all aspects of learning. In my spare time I enjoy traveling with my partner, spending time with my cat Mocha, and enjoying the natural wonders of New Zealand.

E: mszmania@royaloakint.school.nz

Mehar Nabi

Binsted Team Leader

Room 7

About Me

I am Mehar Nabi, an experienced educator of learners aged 11–13. My teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that self-discipline supports the development of strong values such as responsibility, perseverance, and integrity. I am committed to creating a learning environment where every student feels respected, valued, and connected, because I believe that when students experience a true sense of belonging, they are empowered to achieve their full potential.

E: mnabi@royaloakint.school.nz

Kaajal Lata

Binsted Team

Room 5

About Me

Hi, I’m Kaajal Lata. I am a Math, English, and Science teacher this year, and I’ve been teaching for seven years. I currently help lead our Trash to Fashion, Indian and Fijian cultural groups at school. I’m a proud mother of two beautiful kids and live in Māngere. Outside of teaching, I enjoy watching football and exploring my passion for fashion design. I love supporting students to express their creativity and cultural identity while growing as confident learners.

E: klata@royaloakint.school.nz

Dan Robertson

Binsted Team

Room 6

About Me

Kia ora, I’m Dan Robertson, a teacher with a particular passion for English and literacy. I have high expectations for my students and believe in building a classroom culture grounded in respect, resilience and excellence. I’m committed to helping young people grow in confidence, curiosity and capability across all areas of learning. Having travelled extensively, I value different perspectives and cultures, and I enjoy sharing my love of storytelling and astronomy with students.

E: drobertson@royaloakint.school.nz

Aneesa Davids

Grainger Team; Math Lead

Room 4

About Me

Kia ora. I am Aneesa Davids and my family and I have been part of the Onehunga community for over twenty years. I am passionate about education and my teaching experience spans Years 0 -13, specializing in Mathematics and Languages. My heart, however, lies in the Intermediate years, where I love helping our tamariki bridge the gap toward high school success. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy exploring nature, listening to music, and sharing good food with family and friends.

E: adavids@royaloakint.school.nz

Sheryl Campbell

Grainger Team; Enviro Lead

Room 3

About Me

Kia Ora, I am Sheryl Campbell and have been at ROI since 2000. So, I may have taught other family members, cousins and whanau in our close community. I have lived in Onehunga since 1994, so my roots are here. I love the community, the children and the families that make up our special place. I am a qualified second language teacher, and also specialise in Science. My passion lies in connecting to students and bringing out their ‘best selves’ through perseverance, resilience, commitment and a love for learning. I coach our school water polo teams, manage our Enviro Groups, organise the school waste systems and run a Garden to table Programme. A healthy, peaceful, sustainable planet is my dream. I love the ocean, our native bush and the outdoors, hence you will often find me swimming in the ocean or walking trails somewhere throughout New Zealand.

E: scampbell@royaloakint.school.nz

Jill Shears

Grainger Team

Room 3

About Me

Coming Soon

E: jshears@royaloakint.school.nz

Susheel Awadh

Grainger Team

Room 2

About Me

Kia Ora, I am Susheel Awadh and this is my 8th year teaching at Royal Oak Intermediate school...

E: sawadh@royaloakint.school.nz

Miranda Steel

Grainger Team Leader; English co-lead; Head of Student Leadership

Room 1

About Me

Kia ora! I’m Miranda Steel. You’ll most often find me with my nose in a thriller novel, a collection of humour, or a book exploring new perspectives on education, sometimes while cooking something spicy. I love working with the diverse range of students we’re privileged to teach at our school. Discovering students’ strengths and quirks is one of the most rewarding parts of this career, which is most likely the reason I run the Tournament of Minds group-a place where students can explore their creativity, tackle challenges, and support one another as they learn.

E: msteel@royaloakint.school.nz

Teachers Aide

Frankie Schaumkel

Pastoral Learning Assistant

About Me

Malo e lelei,Kia Ora & Talofa lava,
My name is Frankie Schaumkel & I have been part of the ROI Whanau for nearly 20 years with roles as in class Learning assistant,Staff rep on the BOT for a stint of eight years & also becoming a Pastoral Learning Assistant supporting & working closely with at risk students which is my current & most cherished responsibility here at the Mighty ROI to present.. As well as my core role here at Kura I enjoy coaching various oval ball sports often volunteering for Year 7 Camp,Aims Game humbly supporting our Tamariki experience many opportunities year in,year out.. Malo aupito,Arohanui,Alofa Tele..

Malo Mauga

Learning Assistant

About Me

Talofa lava, my name is Malo Mauga and I'm a Learning Assistant at the ROI. Started in 2022, but have been coaching here (with Frankie) for the last 15yrs. Also an ex student (class of 86/87), I am the 8th oldest out of 11 siblings, and I have 5 kids and 2 grandkids. When I'm not developing minds in the classrooms, I'm developing skills on the field. Much love to the ROI family

Julie O’Reilly

Learning Assistant

About Me

Kia Ora I am Julie I have worked at Royal Oak Intermediate for three years as a learning assistant. I have worked in a number of educational settings internationally and with a wide variety of students. I am thoroughly enjoying my time here in New Zealand. I am originally from Ireland. I love photography, music, reading and travelling especially discovering new places

Joye Ma

Learning Assistant

About Me

Kia ora, I have been part of ROI since 2023. I am passionate about supporting every student to reach their full potential through perseverance, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. I value creating a collaborative learning environment where I grow alongside my students, fostering curiosity, confidence, and independence. Beyond my professional role, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, as well as taking my personal time to explore diverse cuisines through cooking and baking, stay active through sport, continue learning, travel, and visit exhibitions and museums.

Maia Bickford

Learning Assistant

About Me

Kia Ora, Ko Maia tōku ingoa, He uri ahau Nō Ngāti Porou, Nō Ngāti Kahungunu hoki.I am a learning assistant at ROI. I am deeply passionate about te ao māori and I am committed to supporting students in achieving their goals. In my spare time I like to cook and spend time with my family and friends.

Jahaan Nordien

Learning Assistant

About Me

Kia Ora, my names Jahaan Nordien and I’m a learning assistant at Royal Oak. I was born in South Africa and I grew up in the UK. When I’m not working, I like to cook, write and play my guitar. I have really loved my time at ROI so far and can’t wait to see what the rest of the year has to bring!

Jane

Classroom Release Teacher

About Me

Coming Soon

Support Staff

Iunisi Maile

Executive Officer

About Me

Mālō e lelei, I recently joined the school as the Executive Officer in June 2026 and am excited to be part of such a welcoming and supportive community.I have a background in Information Technology, with a major in Data Analysis, as well as studies in Business Management and Office Administration. I enjoy using my knowledge and experience to support the school and continue learning and growing along the way. Born and raised in Tonga, I moved to New Zealand in 2014 and have enjoyed building my life, career, and connections here. Outside of work, I am a proud mum of two wonderful girls and enjoy spending quality time with them. I look forward to building meaningful relationships with our students, whānau, and staff, and contributing positively to our school community.

E: imaile@royaloakint.school.nz

Sarah Taylor

Receptionist

About Me

Kia ora. I joined the ROI team in 2026 and feel blessed working with such amazing staff, ākonga and whānau.I have lived in Royal Oak/Onehunga with my husband for over 19 years. We have two children and love being part of this vibrant, diverse community. When I’m not at kura, I enjoy some downtime at the beach, the park, listening to music and having a dance. I can’t wait to get to know you all. Don’t hesitate to come say hi!

Rob Curwain

Property Manager

About Me

Coming Soon