First day for new local teachers
It’s not just new entrants who had their first day at school on February 1 with two new primary teachers kicking off their careers too.
Matilda Cane, 21, and Kelsey Weber, 20, have returned home to the Far North to teach at Totara North School and Kerikeri Primary School respectively.
After completing her Bachelor of Teaching endorsed with Primary Education at the University of Otago, Cane will teach new entrants through to year three in her class of 14 at Totara North.
She says she feels it is a privilege to teach in Northland.
‘‘Northland kids have an easy access to nature such as the coasts, bush and rivers and therefore the freedom and knowledge that comes with it.’’
Cane says she liked the idea of being part of children’s learning and was inspired by teachers during her school years.
‘‘I love seeing children’s faces when they learn something new.’’
One particular teacher at Riverview Primary School stands out for Cane.
‘‘I remember her playing the guitar, singing songs and doing lots of art which made learning fun.’’
Waimate North local Kelsey Weber was also keen to return home after completing her Bachelor of Education (Teaching) at the University of Auckland’s Epsom campus.
She will be teaching year two students at Kerikeri Primary School.
‘‘It’s great coming back to a small community, you can see how much it means when you help the kids.’’
She says she was told that the first five minutes will impact the rest of the school year.
Weber says she was drawn to teaching as providing children with an education gives them more opportunities.
‘‘I consider myself supportive and caring which is good for a teacher as students will come to you if they need help. If they see it’s not just a job for you they will want to learn more.’’
Speaking before the first day Weber says she was excited to get started.
‘‘I am nervous about the first day but I will still be learning along the way.’’
After completing some of her teacher training at Auckland schools, she says she was looking forward to working at a school where there were opportunities for a range of outdoor activities.