Board Members

Sophie Hazelhurst: Co-chair

My name is Sophie Hazelhurst and I have two children at Tawatawa - Ridgway - Albert and Leo, in Year 5.

I have a background in journalism and communications and in my work life, I am part of a team at Maritime NZ that delivers maritime safety initiatives in the Pacific Islands.

I think Tawatawa - Ridgway is a really special school, with a wonderful community and I am grateful for the opportunity to support the school by joining the board.

Kayvan Bahraini: Co-chair

I am a working professional in the construction industry. I wanted to put my hand up to say I'm available and would happily contribute my time to support the school if I am required.

Lisa Burke

I'm Lisa, mum of three Tawatawa Ridgway kids - Eve in Year 6, Rose in Year 2, and Margot starting in 2026.

I feel lucky that our family is part of the Ridgway community. It is a special place with a strong identity, inclusive environment and wonderful opportunities for our tamariki.

I have been a lawyer most of my working life, in private practice and central government. In my current role I am General Counsel at Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People.

I am really happy to have the opportunity to support the school on the Board, and help it to deliver a fantastic, well-rounded education to our kids.

Adam Smith

I am a parent of a Year 6 who has done all of his schooling here at Tawatawa - Ridgway. I believe in supporting our community by helping where I can. I was co-opted by the board this year and am keen to continue to assist while I can. I appreciate the multi-cultural environment as well as our brilliant teaching staff.

Claire Bentley

My name is Claire Bentley and I have 3 children at Tawatawa-Ridgway - Oskar, Rudi and Maddie.

Originally from Scotland, I love New Zealand and Wellington as my home.

In my working life I am a Cancer Nurse Specialist, working in Wellington Hospital.

Tawatawa-Ridgway is a vibrant, nurturing school, with strong values and we love the community that it brings. I am pleased to be able to contribute to our Kura and our community’s tamariki by being a part of the board.

Hannah Booth

Andy and I are parents to Arlo (year 4) and Charlie (year 2). We have lived in the area for about 12 years now and love this wee community and being a part of the school.

I come from a career in health; having worked in government and charity roles across mental health and addictions, suicide prevention and health promotion. I am now the Director for External Relations at Ronald McDonald House Charities (which provides accommodation and support to whānau whose children need hospital-based treatment or care).

I am from a family of teachers, so appreciate the effort that Sarah and our teachers put in every day to support our tamariki. It's a privilege to have the opportunity to now support the staff and school, as a member of the School Board.

Derek Champion

Staff Representative

Sarah Patterson

Principal

You can email our board: ridgwaybot@gmail.com