Our first 'feature teacher' for this term's newsletter is Andrew Riordan, Teacher of Technology

How long have you been teaching and how long you been at Nayland College?

I started my teaching career in 1996 after retraining from working in the building industry.  I have been at Nayland College ever since.

What are your passions and areas of expertise?

I really enjoy the outdoors.  I grew up in Golden Bay, with a father who introduced me to hunting and shared with me his passion for the outdoors.  About 17 years ago I started mountain biking and have grown to love experiencing the outdoors on my mountain bike.  Nelson is a fantastic place to mountain bike!

I adore my beautiful wife and I am extremely passionate about my children and grandchildren!

My expertise lies in my ability to motivate people.  To set a challenge before them and see them achieve way beyond their expectations - this is a big part of why I enjoy teaching so much.

Who has inspired you on your own learning journey?

Most defininetely my dad.  He was a school teacher as well.

What is your favourite thing about the school?

The manner in which the staff work together with the student which is always at the heart of what they do, especially in cases where we have a challenging student and the way we collaborate to find the best solution for that student.

My favourite thing about Nayland College is the people.

He tangata, he tangata, he tangata
 (It is the people, it is the people, it is the people)

What are your ambitions for the future?

I want to be the best Dad and grandad to my family, and continue being the best husband to Sharon (wife).  My Dad always says to go and make a difference and I guess I hear this in my head everyday and use it as my motivation.

In the very near future I want to step outside my teaching experience and consider some retraining.