I have been associated with Wairakei Primary School since 1990 (with my daughter, Shalee and son, Robbie attending) and have been a member of staff since 1998.

In the beginning, I volunteered as a parent helper and I guess they figured they might as well pay me for a few of those hours a week. I now work full weeks. I have seen many changes over these years and all for the betterment of our school, community and children’s education.

My job content covers a variety of programmes and classroom levels including: oral and written language, phonics and reading programmes, speech, student enviro group, assist with sports teams, grant funding applications, KidsCan programmes, Yummy Sticker, Fonterra Milk in Schools, Coastline phone recycling, helping with Pet Day, fundraisers… Each area has its own challenges and the rewards of working with, and for, our children are extremely satisfying. We are provided with excellent training and PD, however I find we often learn the best skills alongside those we work with. I enjoy being involved in projects that have an element of difference and are a challenge for both myself and the students ie the Aquaponics Unit (enviro friendly gardening with an exciting twist), fruit trees and with Hydroponic Units added in 2018. The support we receive from our community is second to none. I can honestly say I enjoy coming to school each and every day, working with such a dedicated group.