Jackie – Maths and Science Expert
Jackie is a visionary educator and trailblazer in the homeschooling and education provider space, bringing over two decades of international teaching experience from Namibia, South Africa, China, and New Zealand. She is passionate about empowering parents to design personalized, purpose-driven learning journeys for their children.
With a degree in Math and Science Teaching from South Africa and a Master’s in Mathematics Education underway at the University of Auckland, Jackie seamlessly blends traditional teaching expertise with cutting-edge innovations, including the use of AI and technology. Her philosophy is centered on recognizing each child as a unique learner, fostering growth through passion and purpose.
Jackie has founded her own school, developed transformative educational courses, and created a comprehensive home education coaching program. She supports parents through 1:1 coaching, curriculum planning, assessments, and masterclasses, equipping them with the tools to embrace homeschooling with creativity and confidence.
In 2025, Jackie is launching Griffin Academy, a hybrid education model in New Zealand that integrates academic excellence with physical education. Recognizing the critical role of movement in learning, the academy offers activities such as gymnastics, trampolining, and other physical programs to enhance focus, resilience, and overall well-being. Through Griffin Academy, Jackie helps children pursue their passions—be it music, skateboarding, or languages—while building independence and confidence in a safe, supportive environment.
Jackie is redefining education by combining intentional learning, life skills, and physical activity to create experiences as unique as the children she serves.
John – The Coach
John is a seasoned athlete and dedicated coach with 33 year’s experience in competitive sports. As a three-time Commonwealth Games competitor, African Champion, and World Championship contender, John brings an unparalleled depth of knowledge and passion to his coaching. His expertise spans gymnastics, trampolining, and functional movement, making him an invaluable asset to Griffin Sport and Griffin Academy.
John’s approach goes beyond physical training—he believes in building character, resilience, and mental toughness through sport. With years of experience coaching athletes of all ages and abilities, John is committed to helping each individual unlock their potential, whether they’re training for fun or striving for elite competition.
Through his leadership at Griffin Academy and Griffin Sport, John inspires students to set goals, push boundaries, and cultivate a lifelong love of movement. His dedication to holistic development ensures that every student grows not just as an athlete but as a confident, well-rounded individual.
Stefanie – Language Expert
Stefanie is an accomplished language educator with over 20 years of experience teaching languages in both adult education and secondary school sectors. A Berlitz-trained immersion teacher, Stefanie has a proven track record of excellence, receiving an Excellence Award from Waiuku College in South Auckland for achieving the school’s best NCEA Level 1-3 results in 2010.
With a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of Bristol, UK (1998), Stefanie’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the cognitive and cultural benefits of language learning. She believes that mastering foreign languages enhances brain functionality, improves communication skills, and opens doors to global opportunities, including careers, volunteering, and scholarships abroad.
Stefanie is passionate about helping students become confident communicators in their own language while acquiring the skills to learn additional languages independently. Her innovative approach equips students with a "passport to the wider world," preparing them to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global community. At Griffin Academy, Stefanie inspires students to embrace the art of language as a tool for personal and professional growth.