This morning we had the opportunity to
partake in a very special celebration with our children and families – a tea
party to applaud Christine for being awarded with a National Excellence in
Teaching Award - NEiTA.
Last week Christine (accompanied by her lovely husband Mat) flew to Wellington to join twenty-four other teachers from across the education sector to receive regional awards for excellence in teaching and leadership in the Grand Hall, Parliament Buildings.
Christine chats with reporters from The Advocate |
As you can imagine, preparing for a
‘surprise’ at kindergarten is never an easy task! However with the combined
effort, aroha and energy of our kindergarten team and families, a truly
wonderful tea party was prepared.
Kai tables were transformed with layers of
white tablecloths, lace and vases bursting with colourful flowers. Fine china
and teapots were collected, shared and laid out on the table alongside
platters, plates and pedestals laden with the most delicious assortment of
treats. Centre to all this mouth-watering fare was a truly sumptuous cake.
Christine was seated at the head of the
tables in a beautifully adorned ‘princess chair’, she was surrounded by parents
(past and present) her team, local media and our tamariki – Christine’s
teaching community to which she has given her heart and her thinking.
“there is nothing more beautiful in life
than celebrating the talents, dreams,
joys, and accomplishments of another being
to see - and call attention to - the best in someone
else...”
The NEiTA Awards were established by ASG Education Programs New
Zealand 18 years ago to promote excellence in teaching. In the 2014 programme
booklet NEiTA’s Chief Executive John Velegrinis states: “Today’s recipients are
teachers and education leaders of the highest calibre. It is so heartening to
meet teaching professionals who are so committed to bringing out the best in
our children academically and socially. Their record of achievement in going
above and beyond to help students’ reach their full potential is outstanding.”
(NEiTA programme, 2014)
Here at Mairtown we
continued to feel truly blessed to work alongside such an aspiring and dedicated
professional. Congratulations Christine, you make us so proud!
Some reflections from the children on why Christine received a 'best teacher award':
"She helps other people - she helps on the Nature Programme - I went on the Nature Programme with her, we walked to the Magic Tree" - Kate
"I like playing with her in the sandpit" - Tyler C
"Christine does great painting. Her's nice, she's the nicest in the whole world" - Livia
"She listens to us...and she understands" - London-Rose
"I like when she's playing with children" - Maria
A huge thank you to everyone for such a wonderful day. Everything was so beautiful the cakes, flowers, table clothes, fine china - it was really like having a real high tea!
ReplyDeleteNot sure how you managed to keep it a surprise (but it worked!) and I know that a great deal of effort from many (teachers and parents) went into organising it. I feel so privileged to work with such amazing children, families and teachers. Christine
Well done Christine. You are indeed a jewel amongst a beautiful crown that is Mairtown kindergarten! Great work team. Regards Chris
ReplyDeleteAwesome Christine! You are truly an inspiring, great teacher, I feel privileged to have learnt from you at Mairtown. Michelle, student teacher
ReplyDelete