Performing Arts Academy Team

Head of Performing Arts- Miss Danielle Hocken

Kia Ora, I began my venture at Tarawera High School when the school opened in 2013 and have enjoyed teaching Performing Arts at the school ever since. I am very passionate about the arts and have areas of specialism in Drama, Dance and Singing. Before moving to New Zealand I taught Performing Arts at a specialist Performing Arts School in the United Kingdom, which inspired me to create the exciting courses we now offer. I am excited to see the Performing Arts Team and its students grow and flourish at Tarawera High School. 

Drama Teacher- Mr Antony Pritchard

Kia Ora, I have been part of the Tarawera Performing Arts team since the opening of Tarawera High School. My area of specialism lies within Drama but I am also a teacher of Physical Education and Dean of Year 11. Prior to moving to New Zealand I taught Drama in the United Kingdom, before which I was Creative Director of Upstage Productions Ltd, a national touring theatre company. I am a fan of contemporary theatre work such as Frantic Assembly and DV8 who both combine drama, dance and music together to create amazing performances, this is a driving force behind the work I do within the Performing Arts Academy.

Music Teacher- Miss Teresa Hoskins

Kia ora, this is my first year teaching music at Tarawera High School. I come from a small town (not quite as small as Kawerau though!) called Levin which is near the bottom of the North Island. I love to write my own songs and sing and perform with others. I studied music at Whitireia in Porirua, before moving up to the sunny Bay of Plenty. I am looking forward to watching my students develop their musicianship during their years at THS, and am excited to see our academy grow!