Teachers at Golden Grove School

Our Teachers

Mrs. Helena Roydon

Head of School

Bachelor of Science
Montessori Leadership

The founder of Golden Grove School, Helena brings 13 years experience in the education sector to her very active, hands-on Head of School role.

A passionate believer in a holistic approach to children’s education, Helena is involved in virtually every aspect of the School’s operation, from her role on the Board to day to day duties like teaching maths and tutoring piano.

In her own words, Helena’s vision for Golden Grove School is as a tiny piece of the giant, yet to be completed jigsaw puzzle that is our collective aspiration for world peace:

Our goal is to ensure that each child feels that they are unique and to help them reach their full potential; we believe that every child is extraordinary. Helping children reach their potential is the first step to our world reaching its potential—a potential we believe is extraordinary.

Ms. Philippa Speedy

Primary Teacher

Bachelor of Teaching
Montessori Certification

Philippa (Pip) is the junior teacher at Golden Grove School, responsible for the learning of children years 1–4.

Pip has close to ten years experience as a junior teacher, and has taught both here in New Zealand and in the United States.

Pip spent two years as a teacher at the Oneness-Family Montessori School in Maryland, USA.

Pip has a passion for music, drama, the performing arts and Maori language, and when not singing and playing the guitar can also be spotted stilt walking and, heavily disguised, occasionally performing as a clown.

Mr. Richard Pedley

Intermediate Teacher

Bachelor of Science
Post-Grad Diploma—Ecology
Diploma of Teaching

Richard is the senior teacher at Golden Grove School, responsible for the learning of children years 5–8.

Richard has a strong background in science, and has worked as both a secondary science teacher and as a scientist for Crown Research Institutes.

Richard has a passion for outdoor and physical education, and incorporates these interests into a diverse and active curriculum. Within the classroom he promotes experiential education and inquiry based learning.

Richard is also a black belt level Taekwon-Do instructor, an advanced open water diver and a marathon runner.

Golden Grove School Board

Chairman

Mark Roydon

Treasurer

John Marshall

Secretary

Jogyata Dallas

Staff Representative

Ailsa Barker

Parent Representative

Angela Arnold-Saritepe

Head of School

Helena Roydon