Celebrating Teaching and Learning

Posted on 10/11/2011 by Emily

Kia ora, many of us look back on our school days and remember a teacher or two who had an impact on us. For me it was Mrs. Landcow, Standard 3 (!),Hampden Street School in Nelson. She was awesome. As I have moved onto my teaching career, others have become my professional hero/mentor. On Thursday I was at a meeting when one of my professional heroes tendered her resignation/plan to retire. Today we honour Mrs. Elspeth Heaton, Resource Teacher of Behaviour and Learning (RTLB) based at Waihi East School. Elspeth has been a teacher in Waihi for 14 years, RTLB for 13 years. Her career span is longer than this. Elspeth may have had an made impact on your whanau. She has touched many in her sensitive and professional manner. So to all those that inspire and guide us, let them know. So Elspeth we wish you well in your retirement. Waihi East Learning Community celebrates your contribution and recognizes you as an awesome friend, colleague, mentor and role model.

On Tuesday I attended Waihi College Senior Prize Giving. What a celebration of Teaching and Learning. I must pay particular mention to Jacob Twidle, past student and Deputy Head Boy. He was awarded the Auckland University Jubilee Scholarship ($6000), Penny Bowden Award for Performing Arts, and John Pattillo Scholarship for Leadership ($1500). It was humbling to watch a past pupil receive such recognition. Check out Jakob's video about Waihi East School below here, Jakob completed this as part of his film studies at Waihi College this year. His whanau, peers, teachers need to take a bow. So where will our children be when they leave us? Please let us know how to support you, so your children can Rise Above and Shine. Together we make a difference.

Ka kite ano

Emily