The 18 participants are part of Cohort 2016 who have just completed their initial two years of employment-based intensive teacher education and leadership development on the Teach First NZ Programme. They now join the programme’s growing alumni network who are making their contribution to education in New Zealand. The group of Science, Technology, Engineering, Matths (STEM), Te Reo Māori and English teachers have all been working in schools serving low-income communities for the past two years.
Teach First NZ, with the support of the Ministry of Education, partner schools and other sector groups, delivers an innovative teaching and leadership programme to encourage more people to enter teaching and help address inequality in the education system. The candidates, after passing a rigorous selection process, undergo a 2 year intensive programme that is delivered in partnership with Teach First NZ’s tertiary partner.
To date 150 individuals have completed the programme working in schools serving low income communities. Of the programme alumni, 90% have continued to teach – many now entering their fifth and sixth year in profession. One in four have taken a leadership position within their school. Of those who have left teaching, a number have gone on to study or work in policy.
The night was full of stories from the graduating Cohort 2016 participants and reflections from Kaumātua Awi Riddell. Teach First NZ’s newest cohort, Cohort 2018, was also introduced. This group of soon-to-be teachers will start working in schools serving low-income communities from the start of the new academic year in February.
Gabrielle Togiatama, a Year 11 student from Wesley College, shared a spoken word piece and the 'PATRIOTS' Niuean Dance Troupe from Tangaroa College gave a performance at the event.
Find out more about Teach First NZ Programme