James Cullen
Kia Ora, my name is James Cullen and I am the Principal at Marist Alternative Education Limited. I have recently started here after teaching in a South Auckland school for a number of years.
Prior to that, I taught at St Paul’s College, where I was also educated. I have also had opportunities to work with Marist schools in the Pacific.
Since arriving at Marist I have been impressed with the creativity and imagination of the students as well as the passion and commitment of the staff.
I look forward to the journey ahead, together with our students, staff, whanau and wider Champagnat Marist family.
Francesco Marignoli
Kia Ora! Here is Francesco or “Frankie” as everyone calls me at Marist. I’m a 26-year-old Italian guy who moved in New Zealand almost 3 years ago. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Public Management in Milan, and I’ve always been passionate about helping people, especially those who have not been too lucky so far. I have a background in working with people with disabilities and Marist gives me the opportunity to explore a new field, to have fun and to teach our amazing students. I especially enjoy being able to help them be supported in the right way to reach their full potential. I recently became a new dad, and this has made me connect even more with this land and it’s beautiful people and I have since a started calling New Zealand my “home”.
Conrad Smith
Hey hey! I am a 25 years old teacher aide at Marist. I have a passion for all things creative, arts and education with the hopes of one day being a fully qualified arts teacher. I have been a coach of Water Polo for over 10 years, coaching a range of aged kids from 10 to 18 as well as also being a swim instructor for 8 years teaching all ages (babies to adults). I enjoy working at Marist because it feels like a family and no two days are the same.