Student Teacher

Tell me a little about yourself.

I was born in Wellington and spent most of my life there. I am descended from one of the first settler families who arrived in Petone in 1841. I have two daughters, Beatrix(5) and Maisie(3). I studied Sociology at Victoria University and Creative Writing at Whitireia Polytechnic. I am writing a novel based on a series of vivid dreams. I like birds and miss the Tui who are abundant in Wellington. I am also a keen amatuer photographer.

As students we sometimes feel nervous. Can you remember a time when you felt nervous and what you did to overcome your nerves?

I was very nervous in English during speeches, to overcome this I would offer to go first. The only time we can be brave is when we are afraid. 

Why do you want to become a teacher?

I wanted a challenging career where I would be able to make a positive difference in society. I think that there aren’t enough examples of positive masculinity for kids these days.

What have you liked about Highfield School?

There is a great culture of inclusivity and positivity. The students are often energetic and willing to learn. The staff are relaxed, awesome and easy to get along with. This has been an amazing challenge and all the students and staff have made me feel at home here. I will be sad to leave.

We all like Mrs Haynes at Highfield School. What are the most important things you have learnt from her during your placement?

That being a teacher doesn’t mean you stop being a human, that making mistakes is part of ako (reciprocal learning). She has been an amazing mentor, tough when necessary but always, ALWAYS kind.

Have you been overseas?

In 2019 I went on a trip with my whole family to England, for my brother-in-law's wedding. We visited Cornwall and London. The two highlights of the trip were the Eden Project and seeing my older brother who lives in Germany.

Can you describe what you saw at the Eden Project and what it is?

The Eden Project is a special place in Cornwell which has been created to research a variety of different climates. It is made up of different areas that represent the different climates, a ‘temperate’ zone, and two large biomes one for a medateranian climate and one for a tropical climate. Each of the biomes are huge (big enough to fit the school fields!) and there are a lot of sculptures, a vegetable garden (used by the onsite cafe), a flying fox and an auditorium for concerts.