Gretchen McStay
Gore,New Zealand
Summary
I am an experienced and passionate educator with a strong commitment to supporting children, young people, and their families to thrive. Through my teaching career, I have developed the ability to build trusting relationships, foster resilience, and place the needs of each child at the centre of my practice. I am kind, caring, and open-minded, with a deep respect for all cultures and communities.
I bring diligence, loyalty, and conscientiousness to every role, ensuring that I deliver services to the highest standard. My approach is professional yet compassionate, combining cultural sensitivity with a genuine belief in the potential of every child and whānau. I never give up on those I support, and I use creativity, humour, and empathy to engage meaningfully and encourage positive outcomes.
I am motivated to contribute to the Family Start Programme by improving health, education, and welfare outcomes for families. My background in teaching equips me with strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to adapt to diverse needs, making me well-prepared to provide effective child and family support services within the community
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work history
Teacher
Maruawai College
Gore, Southland
01.2025 - Current
- Taught English (Years 9-11),Mathematics (Years 9-10) and Literacy (Year 11)
- Hauora class teacher, supporting students wellbeing and personal growth.
- Contributed to curriculum delivery across core subjects with a focus on student-centred learning
- Fostered strong relationships with students by displaying genuine interest in their personal growth and achievements.
- Took part in parent-teacher meetings discussing pupil progress and potential areas for improvement.
Teacher - Year 8
Longford Intermediate
Gore, Southland
01.2017 - 12.2021
- Classroom teacher covering all curriculum areas.
- Lead teacher of Mathematics, Art and Sports.
- Coordinated school sports events and tournaments.
- Teacher in charge of school camps, ensuring positive safety and positive experiences for students.
- Implemented and led the William Pike Challenge Programme for 3+ years, organising fundraising, physical activities (e.g. biking, tramping) and student-led passion projects.
- Collaborated with special education professionals to cater for needs of differently-abled pupils in regular classrooms.
- Prepared stimulating classroom displays, encouraged student creativity and interest in subject matter.
- Developed engaging lesson plans by applying knowledge of educational theories and methods.
- Integrated technology into lessons to make subjects more appealing to today's tech-savvy students.
Principal Release Teacher and Relief Teacher
Waikoikoi Primary School
Gore, Southland
01.2013 - 06.2016
Supported school leadership by teaching across year levels.
Teacher
St Mary's Primary School
Gore, Southland
01.2005 - 12.2012
- Classroom teacher in a special character school.
Skills
- Collaborative
- Reflective
- Conscientious
- Loyal
- Supportive
- Empathetic
- Good sense of humour
Affiliations
- Reading, Keeping fit walking, biking, gym, Spending time with family and friends
Timeline
Teacher
Maruawai College
01.2025 - Current
Teacher - Year 8
Longford Intermediate
01.2017 - 12.2021
Principal Release Teacher and Relief Teacher
Waikoikoi Primary School
01.2013 - 06.2016
Teacher
St Mary's Primary School
01.2005 - 12.2012