Our Learning Space 

Welcome to The Academy – Where Excellence Meets Exploration!

Supplementary education, designed to complement traditional schooling and homeschooling experiences. We take pride in offering a dedicated space for children of diverse ages, needs, and backgrounds to embark on a journey of intellectual and creative discovery beyond the confines of the New Zealand curriculum.

At our centre, we believe in the power of personalised education. Our exceptional teachers are driven by their passions, creating an environment where academic and creative excellence converge in out-of-school learning programs. Our mission is to cultivate an inspiring and innovative educational setting where children not only learn but truly thrive.

Here at The Academy, we cherish curiosity as the key to unlocking a child’s potential. By nurturing this innate desire to learn, we encourage the pursuit of personal growth, instilling in our students a lifelong love for knowledge and self-improvement.

Every child is unique, and we understand that learning journeys vary from one individual to another. Thus, our primary goal is to meet each child at their distinctive starting point. Through thoughtful assessment and understanding of their individual needs and aspirations, we craft personalised education plans that empower them to succeed and grow in confidence.

At The Academy, we are more than just an educational institution; we are a community that embraces diversity and empowers young minds to reach new heights of academic achievement and personal fulfilment.

Join us as we embark on this enriching journey of learning and discovery. Let us together shape the future by inspiring and nurturing young hearts and minds.

Meet our Team

Emma Kent

Academy Teacher 

I’m an educator who believes children learn best when they feel seen, supported, and inspired. I’m passionate about creating a warm, inclusive learning environment where curiosity, creativity, and confidence can flourish. I value hands-on, meaningful learning experiences that support children’s academic, social, and emotional growth. Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time in nature, caring for animals, and being creative - interests that naturally shape how I connect with learners and design engaging learning experiences. I’m really looking forward to working alongside your family. Come and say hi!

Neha Gosalia

Academy Teacher 

Originally from India, I began my work in Education as a Science teacher in the New York City Public School system and then set off on travels that led to living in the Southern Hemisphere for the last 12 years. After a few years doing the rounds in hospitality and tourism, I entered the community sector in 2022. My mahi in volunteer management and sustainability included supporting varied projects with students as leaders of change. As I step back into education, I am excited to be facilitating open, critical thinking through hands-on exploratory methods. I believe in supporting young people to be leaders within their strengths, which builds confidence to tackle their challenges, as well as communication and self-advocacy skills. I look forward to connecting with the Academy community and working together to make our young stars shine their brightest!

Claire Bryceland

Academy Director

Claire graduated from The University of Glasgow after studying an undergraduate and masters degree in Spanish and Hispanic Studies (making her fluent in Spanish). She loves to travel and has lived in many places throughout the UK and Spain. Claire has been working in education since 2011 and has experience teaching children and adults alike. Claire's favourite part of teaching is seeing those "light-bulb" moments when a concept clicks with a student and recognising that your support helped them make progress. Another key aspect which keeps Claire in this field is the opportunity to help build confidence and self-belief in others. She loves reading, cooking whilst listening to a good playlist and eating Japanese food!

Lucy Geraghty

Centre Director 

Lucy studied in the UK to become a primary school teacher and has a passion for working with children. She loves travelling and new experiences. After graduating, she spent a summer teaching English in Ghana, and has been working at Kip Queenstown for more than 5 years and with The Academy since it was established in 2018.

Lucy has been the new Centre Director at Kip McGrath Queenstown since September 2022; she is excited to grow both the Kip Centre and The Academy to meet the demand of the children and families who wish to exceed their potential.