Professional Summary
"As a lifelong learner increasingly concerned for our mokopuna and the expanding capabilities and
arrays of knowledge they will need to be able to traverse our increasingly complex society, I have
decided to pursue a career in education." — Matua Toby
"For the oppressed and those who stand with them and fight by their side." — Paulo Freire
Early-career Social Studies teacher (LAT) from a whānau of kaiako, drawn to teaching since school days. Currently at Mangakotukutuku College and building Te Kete Ako as a practical resource hub for whānau, kaiako, and ākonga.
Enrolled at Waikato in 2024/2025 but did not complete (two attempts) due to whānau grief and the school crisis at the time. Recommitting to finish the Grad Dip Teaching with a fresh start at the University of Auckland and seeking LAT renewal for 2026. Known for empathy, clear communication, and creating a calm space where students feel safe to speak.
Key Achievements
8RURU literacy lift: Year 8 class moved roughly one stanine on average across two
terms; sustained high engagement and classroom culture.
Student-led novel study: Guided curated choices; nearly all students completed
challenging novels and produced 300+ word analytical reports in class (no AI).
Pathway outcomes: Most students passed CAAs in Year 9 and reported an easier
transition; lowest-attaining learner lifted to Level 4 literacy/numeracy after intervention.
Year 9 ESO unit design: Planned and delivered an ESO programme with clear scaffolds
and engaging contexts; positive student feedback on clarity and usefulness of materials.
Te Kete Ako platform: Building a learning platform with curriculum-aligned
resources, assessments, and classroom-friendly tools.
Education
Graduate Diploma in Teaching
University of Waikato / Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato
2024 - Present (studies paused)
Enrolled twice; not completed due to whānau loss and school crisis. Planning to finish via University of Auckland (Social Studies focus); seeking LAT renewal for 2026.
Postgraduate Diploma in Science with Merit
University of Auckland
2017 - 2018
Specialization: Wine Science - Advanced study in oenology, viticulture, and food science
Bachelor of Arts - Double Major
University of Auckland
2009 - 2012
Majors: Sociology and Philosophy - Critical thinking, social analysis, and ethical reasoning
Employment History
Social Studies Specialist Classroom LAT Teacher
Mangakōtukutuku College
2024 - 2026
- Tangata whenuatanga: Deliver Social Studies with locally grounded contexts and culturally responsive pedagogy.
- Ako: Design and sequence Social Studies for the cohort, integrating Te Kete Ako resources.
- Professional relationships (KPI): Year 8 LAT teacher since mid-2024; adapting practice to new leadership while maintaining engagement.
- Design for learning (KPI): Integrated Te Kete Ako and AI-assisted planning to streamline unit design and assessment.
- Learning-focused culture (KPI): 8RURU cohort lifted roughly one stanine in literacy over two terms via structured reading routines and clear expectations.
- Wānanga / High expectations: Student-choice novel study; nearly all completed full texts and produced 300+ word analytical reports in class (no AI).
- Whanaungatanga / Manaakitanga: Calm, safe pastoral care and whānau engagement; students (especially boys) share challenges in a non-judgmental space.
- Collaboration (KPI): Co-ran digital fluency/PLD sessions (safe AI usage, accessibility tooling) with colleagues.
- Professional responsibility (KPI): Limited Authority to Teach (LAT) holder—current through April; renewal planned with continuing service.
- Reflective practice (KPI): Reapplying as an early-career teacher; seeking LAT renewal 2026 and completing Grad Dip Teaching.
Founder & Lead Developer
Te Kete Ako Educational Platform
2024 - Present
- Developing a learning platform with curriculum-aligned resources, assessments, and planning tools
- Building AI-assisted workflows to reduce teacher admin and support lesson design
- Embedding te ao Māori principles into resources and UX to support culturally responsive practice
Support Worker
The Supported Lifestyle Hauraki Trust
April 2023 - December 2023
- Provided tailored support to adults with complex disabilities
- Worked within innovative care approach utilizing diverse therapies
- Completed extensive training including Advanced First Aid, Physical Restraint Training, and Medimap certification
Freelance Brand Ambassador
Chard Farm, Rabbit Ranch & Vintners
October 2020 - May 2022
- Prestigious sales and brand ambassador role representing premium wine brands in Auckland
- Expanded role through industry networking and exceptional performance
Bar Manager
The Jefferson
January 2020 - August 2021
- Rapidly promoted from bartender to general manager of award-winning whisky and cocktail bar
- Demonstrated versatile skill set and exceptional leadership capabilities
Assistant Manager
Glengarry Wines
November 2018 - November 2019
- Orchestrated strategic site relocation with minimal disruption
- Reinforced brand loyalty through exceptional service delivery
Cellar Door Manager & Vineyard Worker
Obsidian Vineyard
April - October 2018
- Managed cellar door operations while maintaining hands-on vineyard work
Inventory Coordinator
Negociants New Zealand Ltd
April 2016 - April 2017
- Key liaison between company and logistics partners, managing orders and supply chain
Sales Associate
Glengarry Wines Ltd
November 2013 - April 2016
- Managed multiple store operations and contributed to year-on-year profit growth
Professional Qualifications & Skills
Teaching Credentials
- Limited Authority to Teach (LAT) — current to April; renewal planned
- Graduate Diploma in Teaching — Waikato enrollment paused; planning to complete at University of Auckland (aiming for 2026 LAT renewal)
Safety
- First Aid Certificate (current; school-based, renews October)
Technology & Innovation
- Educational Platform Development
- AI Integration & Multi-agent Systems
- Database Design & Management
- Web Development & UX Design
Creative & Musical
- Multi-instrumentalist (Piano, Guitar, Bass)
- Music Production
- Songwriter and Composer
Professional References
- Jill Rimmer — j.rimmer@mkt.school.nz
- Samantha Farook — s.farook@mkt.school.nz
- Cherie Weaver — c.weaver@mkt.school.nz
- Ryan Travers — Ryan@glengarry.co.nz
University Transcript and additional references available upon request.