paul takarangi-gavaghan
The end of 2017 saw Whanganui City College short a Mathematics teacher for the 2018 year. As this was a position for a fixed term of one year only it was hard to attract a mathematics teacher as they are in short supply and to relocate to Whanganui for one year is not enticing.
Luckily Paul had arrived back in Whanganui the previous year after teaching in the Brunei. He had relieved in the school for 2017 and was familiar with our students and the Whanganui City way. We were able to entice him to undertake the full time role for 2018.
Paul has shown enthusiasm in his teaching, always striving to do his best for his students. He has encouraged mathematical thinking whilst endeavouring to help student understand what an active learning classroom should look like. He brought some new ideas and resources into the department.
Unfortunately the position was only for one year and we now have to farewell Paul from being a full time member of the staff. Hopefully he will continue to support City College in a relief teaching role.
Kay Matheson
HOD Mathematics
gareth wright
Mr Wright joined the team at Whanganui City College 7yrs ago. He seemed quiet and unassuming but just stepped up to the job with efficiency and no stress. During his time with us he has ignited the students interest in Outdoor Education and when talking to them he has managed to take them to places that have shown them insights into their own ability.
Gareth is a teacher who has treated all students in a calm but firm way and they all knew exactly what was required of them. As an HOD Gareth leads by example and never makes you feel inadequate and he certainly has advanced our engagement in technology and his skills are to be admired. During his time with us Gareth has proved to be a leader in Physical Education as well as administration and his work as a Junior Dean was helpful to us as staff but also to the students as he dealt with them in any crisis with direct and constructive guidance.
We are really going to miss his leadership in the school, but he can go knowing that he has left a big impression on the lives of our kids and in the staffroom.
Wendy Waldergrave
janne bradley
Although Janne, came from the bustling metropolis of Auckland, fitting into our small school was no problem for her. She established herself quickly within the school culture and was quick to lend a hand to students and staff whenever she could.
Janne's work in the Food Technology room included helping students gain prizes at a UCOL competition and developing dishes inspired by the cuisine of the international students. We were lucky to have Janne's expertise in working with the junior Inquiry classroom and with teaching te reo to juniors.
Unfortunately, due to the temporary position, Janne was not able to remain helping students at City College, although I am sure she will continue to inspire and encourage students at her next school.
We wish you well with all your future endeavors,
Whanganui City College