Staff

Principal

Mahana is in good hands with Carolyn Scorrar as the Acting Principal for Term 4 and Term 1, 2026.

It's reassuring that she has a long history with the school, which means she's very familiar with its operations and culture while the permanent Principal search is underway.

Rāhiri Class

Teacher Year 1 / 2

My name is Shaelea Sardella. It is a privilege to be working with new entrants to year 2 students and to be a part of Mahana school whanau/community. I grew up in Nelson and love all the wonderful activities kindly provided in our outdoors. When I'm not teaching you'll find me exploring New Zealand's beautiful nature and beaches. I enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, eating and spending time with my family and friends.

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Ngākaupai Class

Deputy Principal

Teacher Year 3 - 5

My name is Carolyn Scorrar. For the past 17 years my husband and I have lived in Dovedale with our three daughters aged 10, 13 and 15. We own 5 acres and a number of animals, including sheep, chickens, 2 dogs and many birds. I spent my first two years teaching in England and the last 17 at Mahana. Outside of school I love to watch movies, grow dahlia's and spend time in the Sounds and long weekends in Abel Tasman. 

Ngākaupai Class

Teacher Year 3 - 5 (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday in Term 1, 2026)
Kia Ora my name is Kieley and I am excited about joining Mahana School for Term 1 2026 and teaching alongside Justine in Ngakaupai class. 

I have been teaching for over 30 years and for the past 7 years have enjoyed relieving and job sharing at various schools around the Motueka and Tasman district. It's been a fantastic way to meet new people as well as connect with other teachers, students and school communities.

I love to travel with my husband Gareth and we are looking forward to visiting Africa in June/July next year. My other hobbies include reading, photography, biking and taking my dog Shelby for beach walks.

Ngākaupai Class

Teacher Year 3 - 5 on Thursday, Term 1, 2026

I’m a proud mum of three and love travelling, hitting the trails on my mountain bike, trying new adventures that push me out of my comfort zone, and, of course, soaking up the sun whenever I can. I also enjoy exploring wellbeing, emotional awareness, and self-understanding to help build life skills and support a positive, balanced life.I have been teaching across the Nelson region since 2022, including a significant time in the classroom with the Mahana team in 2025

Manawanui Class

Teacher Year 6 - 8 Mon-Fri
Kia Ora.  As the teacher in Manawanui class it's awesome getting to hang out with the year 6,7+8 students each day!  Mahana school has a real sense of whānau and the senior children help foster a real sense of belonging for all our tamariki.  Living locally for many years now I really appreciate the unique character of a small rural school and love teaching surrounded by nature, allowing me to give our learning a real local flavour.  Ngā mihi - Andrew.

Office Manager - We're very lucky to have Lisa join us in 2026.
Lisa is a Mum to 2 very busy teenagers and a puppy. Her family enjoy living in this stunning area.

Teacher Aide

I’m originally from the UK and moved to beautiful New Zealand with my family many years ago. In my spare time I enjoy walking the dogs, horse riding, cooking and gardening. I really enjoy working at Mahana with its rural setting and friendly people.

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