About Us
Starquest Educational Service is an Auckland-based company founded by a team of passionate Ph.D educators. We specialize in providing a wide range of academic study trips in New Zealand for children aged 5-18 from around the globe.
At Starquest, we are deeply committed to integrating New Zealand's unique outdoor classroom education philosophy into our programs. We believe that learning extends beyond the walls of a traditional classroom and that the natural environment is a powerful teacher. Our carefully curated experiences not only engage young minds but also foster a profound love for both education and the environment. By immersing students in New Zealand's stunning landscapes, we inspire them to explore, inquire, and learn in ways that are both meaningful and memorable.
Meet the Team
Our team brings together experts and scholars from various fields, including education, psychology, economics, media communications, and natural history, as well as certified travel specialists from Tourism New Zealand. Each member possesses a solid academic background and rich intercultural learning experiences.
Brand Director / Science Course Designer
Annie Wu
PhD in Education from the University of Auckland, specializing in science education and higher-order thinking research. I excels in designing IB interdisciplinary curriculum and STEAM curricula for primary and secondary students. Additionally, my extensive international study experience enhances my understanding of the educational and social value of travel, which I integrate into sustainable development education and study trip programmes design.
Adolescent Psychology Education Expert / Parenting Guidance Specialist
Anbang Zhang
I am a doctoral candidate in Educational Psychology at the University of Auckland. Specialising in adolescent mental health and parenting relationships, I have eight years of research experience in parenting and has assisted over 200 families in improving and resolving parenting and family relationship issues. I am pleased to provide professional psychological support and parenting guidance for our programmes, ensuring comprehensive care for children’s emotional and psychological well-being.
Occupational Therapy Specialist / Well-being Consultant
Xinting
Xinting holds a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Sydney, where she focused on therapeutic practices that promote mental and physical well-being. Xinting is committed to providing personalised support for students during their educational journeys. Her experience in working with diverse populations enables her to create inclusive strategies that enhance students' engagement and development, ensuring that every child can thrive emotionally and physically while exploring New Zealand and its rich culture.
Outdoor Sports Curriculum Designer
Dr. Wen Xiong
I graduated from the Faculty of Education at the University of Auckland in New Zealand, focusing on teacher development and innovative teaching models. I have extensive experience in teaching physical education in colleges and secondary schools in China. After studying and working in New Zealand for many years, I have accumulated rich experience in designing local PE programs.I am committed to providing students with diversified, international and personalized sports learning solutions.
Media and Communications Specialist
Mia
Mia is an experienced variety show director in the media industry, responsible for the company's brand promotion and media outreach. With over ten years of directing and media production experience at Mango TV, Mia utilises her rich media experience to create personalised audio-visual memories for students.
New Zealand Certified Travel Expert
Jerry
Jerry is a registered teacher in New Zealand with over a decade of experience in early childhood education. Not only excelling in education, he is also a certified travel expert by Tourism New Zealand and possesses extensive global emergency response and first aid knowledge. Jerry has a passion for travel and education, especially enjoying exploring nature with children to spark their curiosity and learning interest.
Natural History Course Designer
Bess
Bess holds a bachelor's degree in Natural History from Fudan University and was awarded the EU Erasmus Mundus Master's Programme scholarship. She has studied abroad in Mexico, the USA, the UK, Ireland, and Malta, focusing on historical heritage and museum education. Bess integrates her extensive international education experience and expertise in natural history into our programmes, offering in-depth natural history and cultural education.
Economics Course Mentor
Dr. Davey
Dr. Davey graduated from the University of Auckland Business School, with a strong background in economics and rich business practice experience. He combines economic theory with practical applications to help students understand sustainable business practices, macroeconomic knowledge, and develop global innovative business awareness and economic analysis skills.