Tapu School ... Where thinking and learning are fun ...
The Staff of Tapu School
Spencer Baty is the current principal at Tapu, a two-teacher school on the Thames Coast. He has held the position for nearly two years and the other teacher at the school is his wife, Marlene. Tapu almost closed in 2005 when the roll dropped to 13. In 2006 the roll at one stage reached 38. There are many exciting and interesting innovations the Batys have introduced to ensure the Tapu children receive the quality of education they deserve. Spencer travels to Scandinavia every year to deliver seminars on the New Zealand Education system, Quality, and school culture. Prior to taking up the position at Tapu he was Principal of Cockle Bay School in Howick where the roll was over 700. Spencer has a Master of Education Degree, has been a Rural School Adviser, contract lecture at Auckland University and in 1995 recipient of the ASB / APPA Traveling Fellowship.
Marlene Baty teaches in the junior room at Tapu School. Marlene came to Tapu from Bucklands Beach Primary where she held the position of Deputy Principal. Marlene has considerable experience in management positions in a wide range of schools, including large urban schools and country schools. As well as more than 35 years as a classroom teacher. Part of her time in teaching was spent teaching overseas. She particularly enjoys teaching young children. Marlene has a Master of Education degree, has been a contract lecturer for Auckland College of Education and spent some time with the Education Review Office.
Ruth Redwood shares the teaching of the Senior Room with the principal. Ruth has been a resident in Tapu since the end of 2005 where she lives with her husband. Prior to taking up the position at Tapu Ruth had taught at Waimauku for 27 years. Her interests in education include the Arts, Literacy and Numeracy. In her spare time Ruth is very keen on fishing and spends plenty of time fishing with her husband “Red”.
Kerri Russek is the school secretary and staff representative on the Board of Trustees. Kerri has worked at the school for 9 Years and currently has two of her three children attending our school. Along with her husband Neville they also run a sheep and dry stock unit on the coast. Their children are third generation at the school, which means they have a big commitment to the school and community. Kerri has a Black Belt second degree in Karate and is well qualified to keep us all safe!!! Kerry Ellis is our teacher aide and cleaner. Currently she works ten hours a week in the junior class supporting a child with learning needs and as well assists with the process of orientation of children making the transition to school. Kerry keeps the school clean and safe for the children.Bob Sims is the School Caretaker and has carried out the role for over ten years. His main responsibilities include mowing and general grounds work and maintaining the school pool in the summer months. Bob is a Tapu local and always keeps an eye out on the school.