Fredrick Simpson - Primary teacher
Science graduate Fredrick Simpson was inspired to get into primary teaching to make a difference to young people’s lives.
“As a migrant from Fiji, culture and identity are very important to me. I saw a need for positive male role models for Pasifika young men in New Zealand. I wanted to become someone that would have a positive impact in young men’s lives through relationships that were strong, full of trust and understanding.
“I completed a Bachelor of Science part-time at the University of Auckland with the original goal of being a high school physics teacher. While studying I was involved in mentoring young people through my church. I also worked at a pre-school and at several primary schools in South Auckland in after-school care and holiday programmes. That inspired me to choose primary teaching.
“I wanted to quickly get into my career. The Graduate Diploma in Teaching programme was a year long, and offered a great opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in New Zealand about primary school teaching. The University of Auckland has such a great reputation nationally and internationally, offering wide opportunities at home and abroad.
“I had an excellent time in the programme. It was fast-paced, fun and engaging. I learnt a lot during the year. The staff and lecturers were approachable and made the learning process enjoyable. There was also a lot of support from lecturers and tutors. The lectures were relevant and engaging."
If anyone’s thinking of studying a Graduate Diploma in Teaching, I say jump in and have a go. Teaching is a profession that requires
you to go beyond your comfort zone, but it is truly rewarding.
“The most valuable thing I got out of the Graduate Diploma in Teaching was a deeper understanding of how children, as well as adults, learn and interact with people. It has given me perspective and a greater sense of empathy.
“I am a Year 2 teacher at Oranga Primary School. I did my practicum at the school and have been a part of the whānau (extended family) ever since.
“I use the skills and knowledge that I have learnt in the programme every day in my classroom: from reading, writing, maths to PE and music. The first songs I sung in my classroom were songs that I learnt in the programme.
“If anyone’s thinking of studying a Graduate Diploma in Teaching, I say jump in and have a go. Teaching is a profession that requires you to go beyond your comfort zone, but it is truly rewarding. You will make some great friends and learn to change someone’s world.”