Today we meet one of our recent recruits, Ben Sheat, who joined our Physical Education & Health team last year. Outside of inspiring our learners and growing our talented basketball players, Ben is also Head Coach for the NZ U15 Men's Basketball League and Assistant Coach for the Nelson Giants.

Where were you born and where did you grow up?

I was born in Dunedin and grew up in Moeraki and Hampden small towns out of Oamaru in North Otago.

Where else have you lived besides Nelson?

After leaving school I moved to Christchurch to study and lived there for 15 years. After study I taught at Cashmere High and Christ’s College before moving to Nelson. I am definitely enjoying the warmer weather up here!

Why did you decide to be a teacher – and what drew towards becoming PE teacher in particular?

I didn’t really know what I wanted to do and enjoyed coaching a lot, so headed down the teaching path. I really enjoy seeing students and players meet their potential and thrive and achieve their goals in a positive environment.

What are your passions and areas of expertise?

I coach a lot of basketball outside of teaching. Currently I coach the Nayland Senior Boys team while also being the Nelson Giants Assistant Coach and New Zealand U15 Men's Head Coach.

Who has inspired you on your own learning journey?

I had several inspirational teachers and coaches on my journey. I’m still in touch with a few of them and they give me advice and help still today.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I really enjoy running and cycling. I enjoy heading out into the hills on long runs in the weekends and over summer.

What were you like as a student at school?

I was a good student and worked hard. I really enjoyed sports and played Cricket, Rugby and Basketball.

What did you do for a living before you became a teacher?

Outside of teaching I have worked full time in sport as a basketball development officer and coach for several years.

What is the most interesting thing you have done in your life so far?

Head coaching a national basketball league game while I was Interim Head Coach of the Canterbury Rams was pretty cool and something I’m definitely proud off. Currently I have one win from one game as a Head Coach in the New Zealand National league.

Describe yourself with three words:

Innovative, Persistent, Hardworking.

If you could share one piece of wisdom with the students of Nayland College what would it be?

Growth happens outside of your comfort zone.

Question from Naomi Wade: How is school different now to when you were in school, and what is one thing you wished you could have done/used/learned back then, that we are now doing/offering at Nayland?

There is definitely more different curriculum areas and more opportunities to follow a range of passions. I think the biggest difference or change is technology though; we didn’t have laptops or devices and access to make and create some pretty cool stuff.

What question would you like to ask the next interviewee?

What has been the highlight of your year at Nayland so far?