We look forward to welcoming new ākonga (students) through our doors to begin their journeys. UCOL Whanganui prides itself on providing an excellent and supportive learning experience for our ākonga across a wide range of career pathways and is committed to education within the Whanganui region.
UCOL Whanganui offers a wide range of programmes, including, Nursing, Health & Wellbeing, Business & Administration, Early Childhood Education, Art & Design, Beauty, Hairdressing, Carpentry, Electrical, Automotive Engineering, and Languages. Our programmes range from U-Skills (in-school study options) and foundation pathway programmes, through to specialised Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees, or Masters qualifications.
Between them, our local leaders bring diverse skill sets and perspectives to their roles, but all share one main goal – to work collaboratively to ensure UCOL provides our students with the resources, services, and spaces needed to excel.
This approach is carried through to our partnerships with the local community, where we take pride in partnering with local businesses to provide ākonga/students with work experience opportunities and pathways to employment. These strong partnerships are also highlighted by the number of locally funded scholarships awarded each year. This year, 46 scholarships were awarded to UCOL Whanganui ākonga, and UCOL received a grant for ākonga in hardship. These scholarships make a significant difference in reducing financial pressure for our ākonga.
Our kaimahi are dedicated to supporting our ākonga. Our Tuakana Teina mentoring programme is making an invaluable contribution to successful outcomes for Māori and Pacific ākonga. The mentoring programme supports a positive transition to tertiary study and a successful learning journey by connecting more experienced ākonga and graduates (Tuakana) with less experienced ākonga (Teina) for support.
We’re thrilled to celebrate 20 years of nursing education at UCOL Whanganui this month! A big thank you to every nursing graduate, to every past and present kaiako/teacher, and all our community partners who have hosted our student nurses for placement. We have achieved this together.
We’d love to introduce our team of Whanganui locals who are co-leading UCOL Whanganui to ensure a safe, supportive, and successful learning environment for all students.
Jan MacGibbon - Academic Portfolio Manager – Early Childhood Education and Languages
Having joined UCOL over 14 years ago, Jan is responsible for leading programme development and delivery and supporting both kaimahi and ākonga engagement. She has worked within hospitality, business, and education programmes where she has enjoyed teaching, leadership, and team management roles.
Jan also has plenty of experience in knowing what it’s like to be a learner, gaining an Advanced Diploma in Cookery (Level 5), Certificate in Adult Teaching, and currently studying towards a Bachelor of Applied Management, which she says helps her in her role to ensure UCOL learners and staff are supported throughout the Early Childhood Education and Language programmes.
“I’m passionate about creating positive learning environments and value the growth of both students and staff. My experience gives me a unique view on the challenges and opportunities within education, allowing me to connect with learners, colleagues, and the wider community.”
Jan’s role is about bringing people together, supporting their journey, and helping them to see their own potential.
"I take pride in fostering strong relationships, encouraging innovation, and ensuring UCOL’s programmes prepare learners for the future.”
"What I love most about my work is the people - seeing learners gain confidence, watching staff grow into their strengths, and knowing that together we’re making a real difference. UCOL has been a big part of my life for many years, and it truly feels like a community. I feel privileged to be part of the journey alongside our learners and colleagues.”
Stephen Carson - Facilities Manager
Stephen is responsible for ensuring UCOL’s buildings, services, and physical environment are safe, efficient, and well-maintained.
With a BA in Applied Management, a Business Degree with double majors in Project Management and Operations Management, and over 17 years in facility maintenance and project management roles, Stephen fulfils his job at UCOL with astute organisational, problem-solving, multi-tasking and leadership skills.
With his experience of building systems, health and safety regulations, responsiveness to emergency situations, team management, strategic planning, fleet vehicle management and budgeting, Stephen uses his skillset to ensure all on campus are provided with safe and well-equipped spaces for work and study.
“This helps to create a productive place for both ākonga and kaimahi."
Stephanie West - Academic Portfolio Manager – Creative, Development and Transition
Starting as a UCOL Fashion Lecturer almost 14 years ago, Stephanie was promoted to Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader before taking on her current role in 2023, where she oversees our Creative Media, Art and Design programmes.
Being awarded first class honours and distinction for her achievements after completing her Master of Art and Design, having previously gained a Postgraduate Diploma in Art and Design, a Certificate in Adult Teaching (Advanced) Level 5, a Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Secondary), and Bachelor of Fashion, Stephanie relishes the creative skills, knowledge and experience she has gained from her study, which she now proudly utilises in her leadership role.
“I find great enjoyment in being creative, and being able to pass this passion on and giving others the opportunity to experience the joy of learning and creativity is extremely fulfilling.”
“I believe teaching is more than simply imparting knowledge. It's also about connecting with each student and making meaningful differences in their lives. Inspiring, informing, and supporting students to reach their potential are the principles that guide me as an academic leader.”
Teaching and learning remain a source of inspiration for Stephanie, and she is excited to continue shaping and expanding UCOL’s creative portfolio and embracing the Adult Community Education (ACE) space, while also supporting the transition of programmes.
“As a Whanganui local who returned to UCOL to teach after working in industry, I take pride in supporting the ongoing development of the Whanganui Campus.”
Coral Hanna - Student Success Senior Manager
Starting at UCOL 23 years ago, Coral is responsible for the combined services that support the learner journey.
She oversees all facets of ākonga support from enquiry to graduation, including operational teams that help learners with information, enrolment, careers advisory, learning support, library services, disability support services, wellbeing support, pastoral care, student life and engagement.
As a professionally registered librarian with qualifications in library studies, adult learning and e-learning, including a Graduate Certificate in Applied eLearning, Bachelor of Arts Library and Information, and an Introduction to Adult Teaching and Learning, Coral feels privileged to be able to help ākonga during their study journey.
“For me, building confidence and skills, and showing people they absolutely belong here, is one of the most rewarding things about my role. UCOL is a great place to work and study - there's a real family-like culture here. "