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, HODs 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. Also a talented vocal tutor, 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
COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING - JADE SU’A
Email: jade@excel.ac.nz
POSITION - MAX
Email: maxjacobsen@excel.ac.nz
Max is a musician, writer, and strengths-based coach who blends neuroscience, creativity, and personal development to help people discover who they truly are. With a background in songwriting, education, and mentoring, Max brings a unique approach to Music Studies that connects technical skill with confidence, self-expression, and meaning. He holds a deep belief that everyone is amazing — they just don’t realise it yet — and his teaching is designed to help students uncover that truth for themselves.
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.
ADMINISTRATOR - LEILANI WILLIAMS
Email: leilani@excel.ac.nz
A past student and an administrator super hero - Leilani keeps operations ticking along and everyone informed. Leilani looks after student relations and also operates as p.a. to the principal. On top of that, Leilani is a fantastic mother and wife and valued team member of EXCEL School of Performing Arts.