Introducing…

New lead primary teacher Tracy O’Sullivan started in the Port Ahuriri School Montessori class at the beginning of Term 2! We are so happy to have her. We’ll let her introduce herself.

Tēnā koutou katoa

My name is Tracy O’Sullivan. I grew up in Hawke’s Bay and lived here until I was 18. I left home and went to university in Palmerston North and completed a Nanny course. 3 years later I moved to Auckland where I started a psychology degree. I finished all my studies off with a Bachelor of Education majoring in Montessori Education. I have been teaching for the last 16 years in 4 schools – 3 lower deciles, and I worked in the Brethren schools nationally and internationally.

I have always kept the Montessori principles close to my practice. My teaching pedagogy has always fallen in line with Montessori practices. When I was working with the Brethren they were open to change, change change of the old 4 walls and single cell classrooms model. I was excited about this adventure. We changed the learning environment and we joined 4 classes together with year 3-6 students. The students were taught to their needs and what excites them, extension students were extended, supported students very much supported. Each student knew where and what they were learning and what they needed to do to progress even more in all their learning. Each student learnt to set goals and reflect practical strategies we all need when we are in the workforce. Our unit became a visual for all the other campuses in New Zealand and around the world. Over 8 years being at that school I have worked with amazing teachers and students where I learnt a lot.

I moved on back to a state school where they also wanted to change some classroom models. We moved a group of multi levelled students into an open space with a group of teachers with opportunities for play, being creative, designing, modelling, writing, dancing, role plays, inventing etc. Wherever I have been in the last 16 years I am still learning how amazing children are, they have potential to be whatever they want given the opportunity. As a teacher that’s what I want for all my students, to have the opportunity to be whatever they want. I go to school each day to offer learning opportunities and for students to smile and have fun doing whatever they choose. I am very excited about joining the Port Ahuriri team and can’t wait to meet all the students.

Ngā mihi nui
Tracy O’Sullivan