‘Being a teacher all I ever wanted’
The end of this year will mark Suzanne Su’a’s eighth as principal of Trentham School. Before that she was deputy principal of Raroa Normal Intermediate in Johnsonville but said it was nice to come back to the Hutt Valley, where she lives.
IF YOU WERE A PUPIL AT YOUR SCHOOL TODAY WHAT WOULD YOU LOVE ABOUT IT?
I’d love the wonderful staff members. Our teachers and support staff are all so caring and work so hard to create the best possible learning experiences for our students. I’d also love all the opportunities that our students get exposed to, e.g. leadership, cultural, arts, sporting, academic. We’re a school that is futurefocused and continually works to keep up with current best practice. Our kids get opportunities to work collaboratively, with devices, and they have input into their learning. Plus it’s fun!
WHERE DO YOU TAKE OUTOF-TOWNERS WHEN THEY’RE VISITING?
We’d definitely spend some time on the Wellington waterfront. The cafes and bars are great and if it happens to be beautiful weather, it’s even better. You can’t beat relaxing on the waterfront with good food, drink, scenery and company. I’d also drag them for a walk up the Te Whiti fire break. There are fantastic views from the top.
WHAT DREW YOU TO WORKING AT SCHOOLS?
Being a teacher was all I ever wanted to do when I was little. I’ve never thought of doing anything else. My mumis a teacher so she was an influence. Knowing I wanted to work with children, I went straight from 7th form to Teachers’ College. Working with kids is so rewarding. Watching them achieve success in any form is an amazing feeling. It’s the best feeling!
BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL MEAL?
Home made nachos. It’s my family’s favourite meal and my daughter always requests it. Nice, easy, cheap and tasty!
ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING EVENTS YOU’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO?
Dare I say, this weekend’s Justin Bieber concert! We got tickets for my daughter for her birthday. Although I’m not exactly a Bieber follower, I’m looking forward to a girls’ weekend away with my daughter and spending time in Auckland with my best friend and her daughter. No doubt we’ll squeeze in some shopping too!.