Role

As a lecturer at Te Rito Maioha, Rachael teaches a range of courses in the Bachelor of Teaching – Primary and Graduate Diploma Primary. Rachael works alongside tauira supporting their growth and development to become successful kaiako through the course work, practicum and pastoral care.

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Education Background

Rachael started her teaching career in 1997 and since then has taught around different levels of primary in Ōtautahi. Prior to having her own tamariki, she was a senior team leader and Assistant Principal. Rachael felt fortunate to have her own tamariki attend school with her for the last 12 years of her teaching at a small rural bilingual kura in North Canterbury.

Before joining Te Rito Maioha, she worked as a PLD facilitator focusing on local curriculum design, te reo Māori support, and the curriculum refresh.

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Research Background

Rachael’s studies have been centred around bilingual education. Rachael is working towards her Master’s degree in Education with a special focus on Māori Education. She derives the inspiration for research from her own tamāhine in their learning to ensure their education is successful and positive.

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Teaching Interests

Her teaching philosophy is influenced by her own experiences as a tamaiti. She believes knowing her ākonga is the key to building relationships and establishing trust and mutual respect. With many years of teaching practice and experience, she values the importance of a play-based approach and its positive impact on tamariki in their initial years at kura. With te reo me ōna tikanga Māori woven throughout her teaching approach, she wants to ensure tamariki Māori are provided with the support and space to blossom and succeed.