Our Team
We want our students to be inspired by as many people as possible with expertise in their areas of interest and for that reason, we work extraordinarily hard at recruiting and retaining exceptional, diverse staff with a passion for the Liger Leadership Academy and our mission. Our team consists of top-tier talent with international experience united by a passion for delivering future-focused education and real-world learning experiences.
Daniel Cooper
Head of School
After graduating from the University of Canterbury, Daniel began his career at the Copenhagen International School in Denmark. This was followed by a leadership role at the prestigious United Nations International School of Hanoi, where Daniel coordinated the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. This multifaceted role involved leading a team of 50 dedicated teachers in the development and implementation of the curriculum and its alignment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Daniel also served on the Learning leadership team, including as co-chair of the Skill Development Taskforce, which worked to embed a 21st century skills continuum framework into the school’s EY-12 curriculum.
Daniel brings to Liger Academy an unwavering belief in the potential of young people and the experience and commitment to prepare students to not only navigate the complex challenges that lay ahead, but to drive change and create powerful impact in their worlds.
Andrew Corney
Deputy Principal
With a Masters in Education from the University of Otago, Andrew’s career began in Tauranga, followed by leadership roles in private international schools in Kuwait and Shanghai. On his return to New Zealand, Andrew spent 12 years teaching at Tauranga Boys College where he led a specialist programme for innovative, inquiry- based learning, before coming to Liger in 2023. Highly qualified in the area of STEAM education, Andrew is a certified RocketLab Space Educator; a Level 1 and 2 Google Educator, Trainer and Innovator; and an Apple Teacher. He has worked on a board level with the Ministry of Education and is an Education Champion with the Asia New Zealand Foundation. Andrew’s driving passion lies in the purposeful use of technology in education and in helping both his peers and students to get the best out of digital tools.
Dave Kys
Facilitator
Dave identifies as a Can-iwi, having been born and raised in Canada and now calling New Zealand home. With 25 years of expertise in public and international education, wildlife conservation, and ecotourism, he is committed to making learning fun, engaging, and relevant.
As a passionate advocate for the environment and all things science, Dave joined the Liger team in 2023 and is keen to explore the rich array of learning opportunities the Queenstown community has to offer.
Anh Wong
Facilitator
Born in Vietnam and raised in sunny Tauranga, Anh is a highly experienced facilitator with a passion for helping students develop their understanding of Mathematics.
She enjoys seeing students grasp new concepts and experiencing ‘a-ha!’ moments as they discover how maths can be applied to different situations, curriculum areas and projects.
Having taught in many schools around the North Island, Anh was drawn to Liger Academy’s core values, especially seeing ‘integrity’ and ‘ingenuity’ as integral for thriving in today’s world.
Drew McGlashen
Facilitator
Drew has joined the Liger Leadership Academy bringing a rich background in Science, Physics, and Electronics from diverse teaching experiences in New Zealand and overseas. Formerly Head of Science and Physics at Waimea College, Drew is passionate about hands-on, practical learning, particularly the Academy’s integration of Essential Skills into Explorations and Extensions. He believes in fostering natural curiosity through investigation and connecting classroom learning to real-world applications, motivating students to develop technological solutions. Deeply resonating with the value of Stewardship, Drew strives to instill environmental responsibility and critical thinking, inspired by a lifelong love of exploration and problem-solving. He has settled into the Bob’s Cove community with his family.
Nisyola Fifita
Facilitator
Nisyola brings a diverse background in performing arts, tutoring, martial arts, and youth mentoring. Nisyola’s teaching journey began in 2021 with the Ako Mātātupu Teach First NZ program, dedicated to educational equity. She has taught Maths, Science, and developed innovative STEAM and youth climate action programs. Nisyola is passionate about project-based learning, fostering care, curiosity, and creativity to help students discover meaningful connections and purpose. She focuses on engaging students by recognising individual talents and encouraging them to contribute positively to their communities. Innovation is a core value that resonates deeply, driving her approach to both teaching and community work.
Judi Kean
Office Manager
With extensive experience in customer service and administration, Judi supports learners and parents throughout their journey at the Academy. Her background in client relations and organisational management enables her to meet a wide range of needs. Dedicated to creating a welcoming and effective learning environment, Judi is committed to helping families make the most of their Academy experience.
Christian Belmont
Project Manager
Christian is a community driven and passionate advocate for youth leadership and empowerment, with a special interest in philanthropy and entrepreneurship. Before his role at Liger, Christian co-founded Youth Philanthropy New Zealand and led its successful programme, Generation Give, which engaged over 100 students in allocating grants of over NZ$60,000 to local communities. Additionally, he serves as a Trustee of the New Zealand Youth Mentoring Network. Christian focuses on the future of the Academy in his role as Project Manager, but he can often be found working with students as well, especially on community projects.
