Our Team

Founder, CEO, Principal & Lead Tutor

Shelley Petersen-Monrad is the Founder of Aromaflex®, CEO of AromaScience Training, and Principal of Aromaflex Academy. With more than 30 years of experience in aromatherapy, reflexology, aromatic medicine, and tertiary education, she is recognised as one of New Zealand's leading educators in complementary health.

Shelley has successfully established and led both internationally recognised training programmes and an NZQA-registered Private Training Establishment (PTE). She has developed NZQA-approved micro-credentials, qualifications, and industry training programmes that support learners entering the health and wellbeing sector.

As Lead Tutor for the ITEC Diploma in Aromatherapy and ITEC Diploma in Reflexology, Shelley combines extensive clinical, educational, and governance experience with a passion for empowering learners to achieve their personal and professional goals.

Student Support, Moderator & Assessor

Christine Burn has been an integral part of the organisation for more than 20 years, supporting learners both online and in the classroom. A qualified Aromatherapist and Adult Educator, Christine provides academic support, assessment, moderation, and mentoring to help students successfully achieve their learning goals.

With extensive experience in aromatherapy practice, education, natural perfumery, and adult learning, Christine is a valued subject matter expert, particularly in the application and use of essential oils. Her dedication to student success, combined with her attention to quality assurance and assessment standards, helps ensure a positive and supportive learning experience for all learners.

Outside of work, Christine enjoys music, singing, community involvement, and spending time in her garden.

Chemistry Tutor & Curriculum Contributor

Ashley Ashton holds a Bachelor of Science and Diploma of Teaching and is a registered secondary school teacher with experience teaching Science, Biology, and Chemistry in New Zealand schools. He has been part of the Aromaflex Academy teaching team since 2008, delivering the chemistry components of the aromatherapy programmes and contributing to the development and ongoing enhancement of course materials.

Ashley is passionate about helping students understand the science behind essential oils and complementary therapies, bridging traditional knowledge with modern scientific understanding. His practical and engaging teaching style helps learners build confidence in the chemistry concepts that underpin professional aromatherapy practice.

Married to Bethany and a proud father of seven children, Ashley enjoys spending time outdoors and pursuing a wide range of interests. He has a strong interest in health and wellbeing and believes complementary therapies have much to offer when supported by sound scientific knowledge.

Holistic Therapies Tutor

Originally from South Africa, Carlo Valle brings a wealth of international experience in complementary health, holistic therapies, and adult education. His journey began over 20 years ago with Reiki, leading him to further studies in Ireland where he gained ITEC qualifications in Anatomy and Physiology, Reflexology, Massage, Sports Massage, Indian Head Massage, Hot Stone Therapy, Diet and Nutrition, Thermo Auricular Therapy, and other holistic modalities.

A qualified adult educator, Carlo has been teaching holistic therapies for more than a decade in both Ireland and New Zealand. He is passionate about sharing practical knowledge and empowering students with the skills and confidence to support health and wellbeing in their communities.

Carlo's enthusiasm for lifelong learning, complementary medicine, and student success makes him a valued member of the AromaScience Training and Aromaflex Academy teaching team.

Student Support & Learner Success

Dr Kate Fulton provides student support and learner guidance across AromaScience Training and Aromaflex Academy. She is passionate about helping students achieve their educational goals and ensuring they feel supported throughout their learning journey.

Kate holds a Bachelor of Science with First Class Honours from the University of Canterbury and a PhD from the University of Cambridge. Her professional background includes scientific research, university teaching, strategic policy development, and local government leadership. She has also undertaken studies in medicine and midwifery, reflecting her longstanding interest in health, wellbeing, and community outcomes.

With a strong commitment to education and lifelong learning, Kate brings a wealth of knowledge, critical thinking, and practical support to students. Outside of work, she enjoys the outdoors, community projects, and spending time with her family in the beautiful Nelson region.

Tutor & Cultural Advisor

Te Aroha Knox brings a strong commitment to holistic wellbeing, cultural connection, and community health. With a passion for supporting others through complementary health practices, she contributes valuable knowledge and insight into Māori health perspectives and wellbeing approaches.

Te Aroha has developed strong relationships within the community and continues to work alongside iwi and health providers to promote positive health outcomes. She has successfully established ACC-funded Mirimiri services and is dedicated to strengthening pathways that support whānau wellbeing and culturally responsive healthcare.

As a tutor and mentor, Te Aroha is passionate about helping learners develop confidence, practical skills, and a deeper understanding of holistic health. Her warm, supportive approach and commitment to lifelong learning make her a valued member of the AromaScience Training and Aromaflex Academy team.