Meet the International Team
Kia ora | Welcome
Kia ora
As the International Student Director, my top priority is the well-being and success of our international students. My role is to create an environment where every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. I ensure each student is matched with a warm and welcoming homestay family, provided with a personalized education program tailored to their passions and ambitions, and offered enriching extracurricular activities that allow them to experience the vibrant culture and natural beauty of New Zealand.
I am committed to building an inclusive, dynamic, and inspiring international program. My vision is to give students the flexibility to design individualized learning experiences that align with their goals while encouraging them to explore new opportunities, challenge themselves, and grow into well-rounded individuals.
Originally from the UK, hosting international students was a significant part of my childhood. Over more than a decade, my family welcomed students from France, Spain, Germany, Japan, and the UAE. This gave me first-hand insight into the challenges and opportunities students face when adapting to life in a new country. These experiences taught me the value of creating a warm and welcoming environment, integrating students into family life, and building connections that transcend cultural boundaries.
In my corporate career in Sydney and Auckland, I led initiatives to create more inclusive and diverse workplaces. I developed programs supporting women, people with disabilities, the LGBTI+ community, and culturally diverse and Indigenous groups, ensuring that everyone felt a sense of belonging and was supported to thrive. These experiences shaped my understanding of the importance of inclusivity and support in every area of life.
In 2023, I moved to Blenheim with my young family, drawn by the opportunity to provide my children with a quintessential small-town Kiwi upbringing. We’ve embraced the outdoor lifestyle and the stunning natural beauty of this region, which continues to enrich our lives.
I have always been passionate about travel and exploring different cultures. I’ve been fortunate to visit many countries across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, including Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and India. These experiences have broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity. Some of my most rewarding experiences include volunteering to rebuild a school in the Philippines after a cyclone and supporting the Cameroon team at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India.
Laura Thomson
My name is Kate Barriball, and I am the International Administrator and Homestay Co-ordinator for Marlborough Girls’ College. I hold a degree in Hotel and Leisure Management from the University of Gloucestershire. Previously, I worked in Human Resources for Athena Learning Trust in the United Kingdom.
I am passionate about working with young people, particularly young women and their families. I take great pride in supporting international students as they settle into life in Blenheim, ensuring they feel welcomed and at home. I organize events such as picnics for host families to connect and build meaningful relationships, creating a strong sense of community.
When challenges arise, I help coordinate homestay swaps to ensure the best possible fit for students and families alike. I also love designing the end-of-year programme, which features activities that highlight the beauty and adventure of the local area, including zip-lining, kayaking, volunteering, and more.
