Poet, podcast host, professional development consultant... and Nayland's newest DP

Where were you born and where did you grow up?

I was born in Central Otago in a small town called St Bathans – famous for its haunted Vulcan Hotel, and Blue Lake.

Where else have you lived besides Nelson?

I’ve lived in a number of different places over the years – St Bathans, Lawrence, Dunedin, Hamilton, Wellington, South Korea, Christchurch, and now Nelson!

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

Both my grandmothers, who I greatly admired, were teachers. They often talked about the young people they worked with, and it really seemed like they were able to make a positive difference to the lives of others – this is what I find most rewarding about being a teacher. English has always been a passion – I love seeing authors and directors tackle universal stories in new and interesting ways. I also love reading and writing poetry.

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

The people at Nayland College are what makes this such a special and enjoyable place to teach. I love the way diversity in all its forms is championed and celebrated here.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love playing board games with my 8 year old son, Dānte. I also enjoy sitting in cafes with a flat white, writing poetry. I also host a podcast called WOA! (Women on Air) where I get to interview women who challenge the status quo, are innovators, movers and shakers and are leaders in their fields. 

What were you like as a student at school?

I was a creative student, and very involved in the musical side of the school. I was a member of the Madrigal Choir and played in the orchestra. I also enjoyed playing tennis and hockey for the school.

What are your passions and areas of expertise?

I’m absolutely passionate about my subject area, English, and the way we can learn so much about ourselves as humans through film, literature and poetry. I’m also very passionate about project based learning – the power of students channelling all their knowledge and skills from across the curriculum into a meaningful project that can have a positive impact upon others.

Who has inspired you on your own learning journey?

So many people over the years – my parents and grandparents, my partner, Jay, my son; who inspires me every day, my colleagues; through their passion and dedication in their work, and all the students I’ve worked with over the years; especially those who have worked through challenges in pursuit of their dreams.

Describe yourself with three words:

Creative, optimistic, curious.

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

I’ve been a teacher for quite a long time, but in 2020 I worked as a professional development consultant specialising in project based learning, middle leadership, and whole school wellbeing.

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

I would be a full-time poet if I could, but I would still try to find a way to be connected with schools to share my love of poetry and language with young people.

Question from Michelle Ainley: What is your favourite memory of your time at high school?

The three month exchange I went on to Hiroshima in Japan when I was in Year 12.

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

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