Biography
Role
In her current role, Jo teaches in the Bachelor programme as well as visits tauira on their practicums. Her focus is to build relationships so tauira feel supported in their studies.
Education background
Jo started her career as an early childhood teacher right after leaving school. She has worked in both teacher and head teacher roles in private and community-based centres, playcentres and kindergarten. She is a PAFT facilitator and owned a centre in the past.
Research background
Jo did a small research project on transition to school. She has growing interest in research for diversity and inclusion for both children and kaiako in centres. Her current research is focused on how culture and identity are fostered with a centre and its impact on teachers.
Teaching interests
Jo’s teaching philosophy is based on respect and fostering responsive and reciprocal relationships to support each other. She believes knowing and developing an understanding of others provides a foundation for teaching and learning. Jo believes that people’s experiences shape their personalities, and it is important to respect them.