International — Staff — Horizon School

Daniel Bennett

principal@horizon.school.nz

Master’s in Business Administration and Cross-Cultural Management

I am married to Nicole, and together we have three wonderful children, Eva, Madeline, and Reuben. As a family, we love spending time outdoors—whether hiking, camping, or enjoying the beach.

With a broad background in social science research and education, I have a deep passion for understanding historical and cultural trends and how they continue to shape our world today. I believe education is more than a technical pursuit; it’s a formative process that shapes who we are and opens up future possibilities.

As Christian educators, we are privileged to help shape not only students' technical skills but also their hearts and minds for the Kingdom. My experience in Christian education has fueled a passion for helping students make meaningful connections between their identity in Christ and their calling in the marketplace.

It is an honor to be part of such a wonderful community at Horizon, where we are united in our mission to see our students thrive.

Leadership, Internationalwww.creed.nzJune 25, 2024Principal

Simeon Hawkins

simeon@horizon.school.nz

Master of Arts in History, Graduate Diploma in Theology, Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Teaching, Bachelor of Arts in History

My wife Holly and I moved from England to New Zealand for two years in 2010 and never left. We now have two little Kiwis of our own and love life on the Hibiscus Coast and Mahurangi.

As the Associate Principal at Horizon School, I partner with Daniel and the Senior Leadership Team and support the wider staff to help our students thrive in education, faith, and life. I also oversee the Special Character portfolio.

Time with family or in nature is always well spent and refreshing. In those rare quiet moments, my happy place is catching up with good friends over a meal and/or a drink.

Caroline Smith

caroline@horizon.school.nz

Leadership, Support, InternationalCarmel BartlettMay 22, 2024Executive Officer

Amy Williams

amy@horizon.school.nz

Bachelor of Communication Studies, Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary)

I grew up in Hamilton and Auckland, and I have recently moved to Snells Beach to join the Horizon whānau. I am a proud wife and mother to two beautiful children, and I am passionate about providing teaching and learning that supports our rangitahi to reach their potential.

As Head Dean and teacher of Literacy, History, and English at Horizon School, it is a privilege to facilitate a safe place for students to seek help and encouragement, use Biblical wisdom to provide guidance when students are facing challenges, and help to foster their individual successes.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, singing, dancing, listening to music, baking, sharing food with others, and going for walks and swims in the ocean.

Sarah Welch

sarah@horizon.school.nz

Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Arts in History, Graduate Diploma in Teaching

Originally from Snells Beach, I spent time in Wellington for University and South Auckland where I taught for 7 years. In 2017 I returned to Snells Beach with my husband and two daughters who go to Horizon.

I love teaching and can't imagine ever doing anything else. It is such a privilege to walk alongside these fabulous young people during their years at College. I love that at Horizon the students are known and that their interests and passions are encouraged.

Outside of school, I love to go camping or spend time at the beach with my whānau. I also enjoy baking, reading, David Attenborough docos, and learning photography.

College, Internationalwww.creed.nzApril 23, 2024Science, Social Science, Academic Dean, Year 12/13 Hapori

Lisa Hyde

lisa@horizon.school.nz

I was born and raised in Auckland, spending most of the holidays in either Snells Beach or Omaha. I've previously been a paediatric nurse, working mostly at Starship Hospital, until my husband and I decided to move to beautiful Snells Beach with our 3 children.

I'm part of the amazing admin team at Horizon. I have always loved working with children and have been involved with my own kids' school in various roles in the past. I love working with a group of passionate people who are genuinely interested in the wellbeing of our students and upholding the school's Christian special character.

Outside of school I enjoy spending quality time with my family, watching the kids' sports and activities, exploring nature and making memories together.