Role

In her current role as Pouako, Fiona extensively supports tauira and staff from Kirikiriroa. Her work includes enriching their understanding of te ao Māori, organising noho marae, and facilitating He Pātaka Reo.

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Education Background

Fiona started her teaching career in 2002 at a kōhanga reo when her oldest child was an year old. She has worked in different early childhood settings which include kōhanga, home-based and centre. In these roles, she has enjoyed building relationships with tamariki, whānau, and the community.

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Research Background

Currently, Fiona is pursuing a master’s degree through Te Rito with research focused on the ‘first thousand days’ and ‘inclusive education’. Alongside her master’s, Fiona is also enrolled in ‘Te Kunenga o Te Ao Tikanga’ course at Te Wananga o Aotearoa where the focus of her study is Waikato/Tainui. Fiona believes this will benefit her role as pouako.

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Teaching Interests

As a graduate of Te Rito Maioha, Fiona feels teaching here is a way of giving back by supporting tauira in their learning journey. As an experienced early childhood educator, she Fiona believes in inclusive education for all tamariki deserve the very best learning opportunities, care, respect and aroha.