About Bay Learning Academy
Bay Learning Academy was established, and NZQA registered, in 2012. We saw the need for a school that prioritizes small classes and student success, and we set out to build an Academy that is firmly student-focused.
We are based in Arataki, Mt Maunganui, close to the Bayfair Shopping Centre and the beach, and only a short bus ride from Downtown Tauranga.
Our classes are small so we can offer very personalised teaching in a warm friendly environment. We have wonderful tutors and awesome students. It's fun, friendly and focused on learning!
Our Facilities:
- Bright, naturally lit classrooms and lecture rooms
- A student common room and kitchen facilities
- Free wi-fi throughout the school
Compliance and Quality Assurance
We are an NZQA registered provider and a signatory to the Code of Practice for the pastoral care of international students. Below are key documents for your reference:
Self-Review Toolkit Tertiary Providers
Our Vision Statement
To deliver the best learning outcomes for a range of educational services that represent the real, contemporary, needs of both clients and the industry.
Our Mission Statement
Bay Learning Academy aims to deliver programmes and courses of real value for the students seeking quality learning experiences and relevant learning outcomes. It strives to attain these outcomes through excellence in teaching delivery and holistic student learning support.
Our Team
Liz Signal
Founder
Liz founded Bay Learning Academy in Tauranga and dedicated her life to teaching English and inspiring others. Her legacy lives on through the countless students and teachers she empowered. We honour her memory and the lasting mark she left on our community.
Jon Sadler
Owner & Business Development Manager
Having worked and played in many places and spaces around the world, I finally settled in Tauranga with my family in 2004.
I have a BSc (Hons) and MSc in environmental sciences, and a postgraduate diploma in teaching and management. I have been a minor shareholder of Bay Learning Academy since 2012. Having been primarily an educator for 38 years, my mission, since taking over ownership in 2024, is to continue to improve and extend the enriching learning experiences BLA offers.
Julia Vasina
Manager
I have journeyed through 20+ countries and dedicated over 35 years to language teaching. A staunch believer in lifelong learning, I value the knowledge exchange among us all. Having learned several languages personally, I understand the nuances of teaching them effectively. With a CELTA qualification from NZLC, I'm deeply committed to helping students achieve their best.
Lynne Neal
Assistant Manager
The staff and students are wonderful to work with here at Bay Learning Academy. The different languages and cultures make life very interesting. I enjoy watching the progress of the students.
Anya Egorova
Homestay Coordinator and Marketing Specialist
I work closely with students, host families to help create a positive and supportive experience at Bay Learning Academy. With a background in management and extensive experience in people-focused roles, I support both homestay coordination and marketing for the school. I am passionate about helping students feel welcomed, comfortable, and well supported during their time in New Zealand.
Robynne Andrews
Tutor
IELTS, ESOL and TESOL
With over 20 years experience teaching ESOL to adults and children I have been able to work and experience life in a variety of countries. Helping people to communicate and gain confidence so they can express their views and ideas is what keeps me motivated in my teaching. I see myself as much a learner as a teacher. Recently I have spent time teaching teachers of English in Morocco, Brazil and Cambodia. English really is the language of the world.
Dale Bennington
Tutor
ESOL
I qualified from the Bay Learning Academy’s TESOL course and have since been teaching at the school. It was, and continues to be, a very rewarding experience. Meeting new people from around the world and from all walks of life keeps everything fresh and exciting. Such a great atmosphere to learn and develop. Dale has lived in Thailand.
George Wieland
Tutor
TESOL
I moved to Aotearoa New Zealand with my family 25 years ago to take up a teaching post at Auckland University and Carey Baptist College. I have honours degrees in History and Theology, a PhD in Biblical Studies, a Graduate Certificate in Education, a Diploma in Pastoral Studies and a TEFL qualification. I lived and worked in Brazil for a few years, giving me the experience of having to learn another language. I enjoy getting to know people with other cultures and life experiences and working with international students.
Pirini Ngātote Edwards
Tutor
TE REO MAORI
Meet Pirini Edwards, a distinguished educator with a profound connection to kaupapa Māori, bringing over 20 years of teaching experience to our language school. His journey of learning and teaching reo Māori exemplifies personal growth and community engagement. Pirini is dedicated to guiding students on a path of self-improvement and cultural awareness, fostering an environment where learning is synonymous with healing and empowerment.