“Teaching is an incredible privilege; it is a window into the minds of amazing young people, and an opportunity to continue my lifelong learning. The adage that you really learn something if you have to teach it applies not just to my students but to me also. I love that they teach me something new every day, without fail!”
“Some years ago, I decided to take a break from my work as a research scientist, after doing this for nearly 20 years. During that time I got to spend more time with my four children and learn how rarely science and STEM subjects were explored in their classrooms. This inspired me to get involved in volunteering in their science endeavours and learning, and to consider applying my experience to teaching science in schools.
“I felt that my real passion was for exploring STEM with primary school-aged children while their curiosity and excitement for the world around them was still universal and enthusiastic.
“Having already gained a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science from the University of Auckland and a PhD from Oxford University, the obvious route forward was the one-year Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Primary) programme. I enjoyed learning alongside colleagues who were inspiring, collaborative and passionate about their new career path.
“I knew I made the right decision when I had the ‘Aha moments’ with students, such as when an experience or explanation I have used to explain a new concept to a struggling student helps them to ‘get it’. The expression of excitement and pride by the students reacting to their new understanding is addictive!
“I would like to continue classroom teaching with young students and am particularly interested in developing ways to ensure integration of STEM exploration in primary students’ learning. In the future, I would like to contribute to helping teachers of non-science backgrounds feel comfortable in pursuing this more comprehensively in their classrooms.
“My advice to others wishing to become a teacher in NZ would be to spend time in classrooms with children and teachers, and identify an area that you are truly passionate about – this will fire up learners and learning. Also, learn as much te reo and Te Ao Māori as possible as it is truly a treasure that we should honour and protect.”
Patricia Cooper has a doctoral and a masters degree in science and has worked as a research scientist for many years. In 2016 she completed the one-year Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Primary) programme. She is now a Year 4 Teacher at Maungawhau School, Auckland, integrating STEM subjects.
>>Study the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary)
