Role

In her current role, Jo is the course leader kaiarahi for CHD1 and CHD2 and teaches in the Bachelor of Teaching ECE programme, as well as visits tauira on their practicums. Her focus is to build relationships so tauira feel supported in their studies.

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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.

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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 recent thesis focuses on the importance of teacher belonging for teachers from minority cultures in NZ

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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 everyone has the right to belong and to be respected and advocates for inclusion.