EXCEL STAFF
EXCEL School of Performing Arts is made up of a talented group of tutors and industry professionals, many of whom are not included in the list below, rather you’ll find reference to our core staff and executive team.
Principal - DEBORAH KNIGHT
Email: deborah@excel.ac.nz
With a heart for people and a passion for seeing students find their true identity, Deb represents EXCEL’s people and culture. Having been a part of EXCEL’s story for twenty three years now, her understanding of the school, its history and the vision for the future are all reasons why we’re lucky to have Deb on our team. Deb brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table.
Academic Manager - JOHN KNIGHT
Email: john@excel.ac.nz
John has spent the better part of twenty three years serving first as Course Director then as the Principal and Director of EXCEL School of Performing Arts. Having seen thousands of students pass through the doors of EXCEL, his greatest driver is seeing those students depart the school with confidence, purpose and a sense of identity. John is full of vision, a powerful speaker and enjoys playing keys and creating an atmosphere of worship and prayer.
MUSIC director - Leonard folau
Email: leonard@excel.ac.nz
Leonard is a vocalist and musician with over a decade of experience in the music and theatre industry. Leonard is a member of 6 piece band The Backline and has performed with artists such as Adele, Parris Goebel, Fiji, Jboog, Three houses down, Sammy Johnson, Swiss and Tree and many more.
COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING - JADE SU’A
Email: jade@excel.ac.nz
Jade is an EXCEL alumni Dance student from 2017 who now manages the Marketing & Communications at EXCEL School of Performing Arts. With over six years of experience in marketing, she oversees everything from graphic design, content creation, and social media to building and maintaining relationships with high schools, churches, and the wider community. Passionate about creativity and connection, Jade loves using storytelling and design to help showcase the heart of EXCEL and connect future students with opportunities in the performing arts.
head of vocals - vanessa (ness) abernethy
Email: ness@excel.ac.nz
Ness is a full time entertainer, singer and vocal coach with over 25 years industry experience. Performing as lead vocalist in a number of bands, a session vocalist for Les Mills worldwide and the winner of the 2023 Pacific Entertainments Top Female Artist Award. In addition, Ness performed on NZ ‘Stars In Their Eyes’ and was a soloist for Coca Cola Christmas In the Park. Ness is the backing vocalist for Tami Neilson and recently performed at Spark Arena with Micheal Buble.