Tala spent 10 years in the finance industry before realising that he wanted to follow his passion of teaching. With no tertiary qualifications, he gained entry to university as a mature student, working by night and studying by day.

Volunteering at his daughter’s school, coaching netball and helping with singing, kapa haka and the school’s Polynesian club strengthened his resolve to be a teacher, which Tala felt to be his true calling.

Being in a school for a whole year is what appealed most to Tala about the Master of Teaching and Learning (Primary).

“This programme gives me a chance to make connections in the classroom by applying what I’m learning on campus throughout the year. It offered the opportunity to build relationships with teachers, staff and students from day one.”

As a Samoan Māori male teacher, he looks forward to starting his teaching career and sharing his culture with students. He would like to challenge the declining rates of academic achievement in Māori and Pasifika students.

“I want to help build a culture of engaged students who see learning as a way to make positive changes in their lives.”

Rebecca originally leant towards gaining a degree in primary teaching but found herself drawn to early childhood teaching after attending a university open day.

Many aspects of the programme appealed to Rebecca, particularly learning about the history of early childhood education in New Zealand and the wider world and how this has influenced teaching practice today.

“The University has opened up my mind to new ways of thinking and my ideas and thoughts are constantly changing.”

She has also appreciated the opportunity to gain real-life experience in early childhood centres, which has enabled her to understand what it is really like working with children.

“I am passionate about learning and being able to teach the young children of New Zealand. I believe that much development, growth and learning happens for young children in the beginning years of their life.

“They should have the opportunity to be in an environment that supports, enriches and enhances this.”

I've had the opportunity to get hands-on experience in a real classroom. Being in that environment is an eye-opening experience and a great chance to apply what I've been taught in lectures.

For me, teaching is not just about filling a child’s head with information, but getting to know each and every child and what makes them tick.

I want to be the best teacher I can, so I can have a positive impact on young people's lives—seeing them apply what I've taught them gives me an amazing buzz.

At the University, I've learnt different approaches and strategies to help people learn to the best of their ability, no matter what their background is.

Living in Wellington, I am never bored. Two things I am passionate about are theatre and rugby. There are always shows on at Bats, Circa and Downstage theatres. I've been to so many big rugby games at Westpac Stadium. Best of all, everything is within walking distance.

The culture here is so funky and cool, yet there are also these beautiful walks. The Wellington experience is unique, you won't find it anywhere else.