Rathkeale College Staff

Willie was appointed Deputy Principal at the beginning of Term 3, 2024. He previously served as Head of the Physical Education and Health Faculty at Wairarapa College, where he also held several management roles, including Year Level Dean, Director of Hockey, and Teacher in Charge of the Sports Academy. Prior to his tenure at Wairarapa College, Willie taught Physical Education and Health at Upper Hutt College and was Head of Health.

Willie holds a Bachelor of Education/Diploma of Teaching, with a major in Physical Education and Health, from Massey University. His passion for sport has driven him to actively coach hockey, cricket, volleyball, and touch, and to contribute significantly to coach development. He is committed to achieving excellence both on and off the field, whether at the grassroots or national level.

Among his notable achievements, Willie has coached Wairarapa College to two National titles and the Dalefield Premier Men’s team to two Wellington titles and one Intercity title. He has also served as the Head Coach of the NZ U18 Hockey team and a NZ U18 selector.

Michelle was appointed as Deputy Principal at the beginning of 2026 and has spent the past ten years working in Special Character schools. Michelle has considerable experience having held positions as Director of Engagement, Dean, Head of House and a NZQA marker for Level 3 English. She was Head of the English Faculty at Catholic Cathedral College, in Christchurch and has taught English and Media Studies at Villa Maria College, Cashmere High School, Aranui High School and Awatapu College. Michelle has a family association with the Trinity Schools with both her daughters having attended St Matthew’s and Senior College.

With 24 years in education, Michelle remains passionate about learning, reading, and supporting young people to thrive. She values family, connection and meaningful engagement, and contributes positively to both the school and its wider community.

Lucy Hepburn is the Head of Music at Rathkeale College, a role she has held since 2018. She holds a Music degree from the University of Liverpool and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from Edge Hill University in the UK.

Lucy began her teaching career in Liverpool before relocating to Masterton in 2012, where she first joined Rathkeale College as a long‑term relieving teacher in Maths and Science. She later taught Music and Drama at Wairarapa College before returning to Rathkeale as the Head of Music.

Passionate about Music and the Performing Arts, Lucy has directed choirs, bands, arts events, and been the Musical Director for several major school productions. She is committed to promoting creativity and providing meaningful opportunities for young people to experience the Arts.