Meet Sue Ford, our new Head of Learning Support who joined the Nayland whānau at the start of the year. Sue brings a smile and loads of passion to every conversation and interaction with both staff and students. Today we get to know a little bit more about the person behind the big smile.

Where were you born and where did you grow up?

Bulls - of all places and yes lived there until I was 18.

Where else have you lived besides Nelson?

My journey includes Palmerston North, Wellington, London (Covent Garden) Oxford (England), Nadi, Mt Maunganui, New Plymouth and Blenheim.

Why did you decide to be a teacher

Curiosity. A mad moment? I guess I enjoy working with tamariki

What do you like about teaching, and teaching at Nayland specifically?

I enjoy watching that ah ha moment - the connect. Also, all the fun games, thinking strategies and active pedagogy we can do through learning. Nayland specifically - awesome, caring and supportive team. This includes the wonderful Learning Assistants. They really make life at Nayland entertaining.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Outdoor adventures, travelling, visiting my children and being with our pets. Oh and learning Te Reo, but not getting very far with it.

What were you like as a student at school?

Secondary school was a journey, especially Year 10 (4th Form). College highlight year was the equivalent to Year 13.

What are your passions and areas of expertise?

Passion: Strong supporter for animal welfare, often practicing my learning of Te Reo, dance - especially ballet and I can be found outside in the garden even on the worst day.

Describe yourself with three words:

Enjoy a laugh, competitive, enthusiastic

What did you do for a living before you became a teacher at Nayland College?

Qualified Veterinary Nurse. Loved the experience.

If you weren’t a teacher, what would you be doing and why?

Working and caring for animals, particularly animals that have been kept in captivity for financial gains.  

Question from Rowan Taigel: If you could have coffee with one famous person from history, who would it be?

Jean Batten.

Give me one question to ask the next teacher we profile…

If you could travel anywhere in the world - where would it be and why?