Academic Staff
Ngā Kaimahi Mātauranga

Shelley Sugrue
Programme Leader Graduate Diploma in Teaching
Kaiārahi Hōtaka
Wellington | Te Whanganui-a-TaraRole
As programme leader, Shelley is responsible for overseeing the delivery of the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE) programme. She also teaches in the programme and visits students to assess their teaching practice in centres.
Education Background
Shelley has been involved in education for more than 34 years, teaching in kindergarten and as a tertiary lecturer in initial teacher education programmes. Formerly a lecturer at the University of Otago College of Education, Shelley has been with Te Rito Maioha since 2020 in a range of teaching and programme leadership roles. She was involved in the development of Te Rito Maioha’s Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE), Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) and Bachelor of Education.
Research Background
Shelley’s research interests include online programme delivery for field-based students and their effectiveness and how to enhance online engagement for field-based students. She has also focused on ECE curriculum, the contribution of Graduate Diploma in Teaching students to the sector, and ECE professionalism.
Teaching Interests
Shelley’s teaching approach is nested in relationships which has been a core value through her professional life. She values a collaborative and team approach to teaching. Professionalism, teaching practice, teaching identity, children’s play and learning are some of her teaching interests.