Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Websites
Professional Development
Timeline
Generic

Heidi Chesterman

Napier

Summary

Dedicated and creative educator with a background in Physical Education, Creative Arts, and Outdoor Education. I bring energy, compassion, and a hands-on approach to teaching, creating engaging learning environments where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired. Experienced in pastoral care and administration, with strong communication and organisational skills. A practical problem-solver who thrives on thinking on my feet and managing multiple projects with a keen eye for detail. Guided by a student-centered philosophy, I aim to help rangatahi grow in skills, confidence, resilience, and connection to their communities.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

Practicum Student Teacher

Karamū High School & Napier Girls High School
05.2025 - Current
  • Developed lesson plans to engage students in diverse learning activities.
  • Implemented classroom management strategies to foster a positive learning environment.
  • Collaborated with associate teachers in planning and resource sharing.
  • Facilitated group discussions to promote student participation and critical thinking.
  • Utilised educational technology tools to enhance instructional delivery and engagement.
  • Evaluated student work, provided feedback, and tracked their progress over time.
  • Collaborated with teacher to plan and achieve instructional goals and objectives.
  • Developed lesson plans and activities to engage students in the learning process.
  • Accepted constructive criticism and feedback with positivity in areas requiring improvement.
  • Followed school schedules and policies to promote safety and learning.
  • Attended and contributed to staff meetings.
  • Participated in professional development workshops and seminars related to education and teaching methods.
  • Participated in school events and extracurricular activities to support school community.
  • Facilitated hands-on art projects using various mediums and techniques.
  • Developed engaging physical education lesson plans for diverse student needs.
  • Guided students’ learning in anatomy, biophysical aspects, and Te Ao Māori concepts, helping them connect scientific and cultural perspectives of movement and exercise.

Hewett House Hostel Supervisor

Napier Girls’ High
Napier
08.2024 - Current
  • Built and maintained positive relationships with employees and students.
  • Worked successfully with colleagues to accomplish goals and address issues related to pastoral care.
  • Supervised daily and nightly operations of the hostel, ensuring safety and cleanliness standards.
  • Managed check-ins and check-outs, maintaining accurate student records.
  • Adhered to all health and safety regulations to ensure a safe environment for students, staff, and visitors.
  • Supervised student outings, maintaining safety, and record keeping.
  • Enforced hostel policies, ensuring compliance among all residents and visitors.

Art Gallery Owner / Manager / Resident Artist

The Reef Gallery
Waimārama, HB
12.2021 - 03.2024
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with artists and clients, resulting in repeat business.
  • Planned and executed creative events and exhibitions.
  • Managed all financial, administrative, and operational aspects of the gallery.
  • Facilitated workshops for youth and adults, fostering supportive learning environments.
  • Art Gallery Owner / Manager / Resident Artist

Lead Creative

Ministry of Education / Waimārama School
03.2022 - 10.2022
  • Motivated and supported students in developing art knowledge and skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement.
  • Designed weekly lesson plans culminating in personalized natural material mosaics.
  • Collaborated with other teachers to create interdisciplinary projects connecting art with other subjects.

Quality Assurance Coordinator

Taura Natural Ingredients
Mount Maunganui
08.2016 - 12.2019
  • Oversaw and managed raw material and product clearance, pest control, and environmental auditing.
  • Conducted regular factory and staff audits to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
  • Analysed data, improved quality systems, and produced reports with actionable recommendations.
  • Analysed product samples using established testing methods and protocols.
  • Promoted teamwork and a positive working environment.
  • Trained staff in new procedures and best practices.

Schools & Groups Coordinator

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts
Whakapapa Ski Area
05.2012 - 10.2012
  • Managed daily operations and coordinated schedules for groups and events.
  • Collaborated with departments to resolve customer concerns and improve service.
  • Maintained accurate records and upheld professionalism in all interactions.
  • Schools & Groups Coordinator

Education

Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary) - Physical Education & Health

Open Polytechnic
12-2025

Bachelor of Sport & Leisure Studies & Public Relations -

University of Waikato
04.2012

Skills

  • Lesson Planning & Delivery
  • Relationship building
  • Team collaboration
  • Student Engagement & Pastoral Care
  • Event & Project Coordination
  • Team Leadership & Collaboration
  • Business & Financial Management
  • Website Management
  • Creative Arts & Outdoor Education
  • Strong Written & Verbal Communication

References

  • Ashley Blake, Physical Education Teacher, Karamu High School, ablake@karamu.school.nz, +64 27 947 3383
  • Stacey Chandler, Physical Education Teacher, Napier Girls High School, schandler@nghs.school.nz, +64 27 814 6955
  • Kelly Cox, Quality Manager, Taura Natural Ingredients, Kelly.Cox@TauraURC.com, +64 27 227 9525

Websites

Professional Development

STOTT Reformer Pilates Instructor, 2019

Timeline

Practicum Student Teacher

Karamū High School & Napier Girls High School
05.2025 - Current

Hewett House Hostel Supervisor

Napier Girls’ High
08.2024 - Current

Lead Creative

Ministry of Education / Waimārama School
03.2022 - 10.2022

Art Gallery Owner / Manager / Resident Artist

The Reef Gallery
12.2021 - 03.2024

Quality Assurance Coordinator

Taura Natural Ingredients
08.2016 - 12.2019

Schools & Groups Coordinator

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts
05.2012 - 10.2012

Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary) - Physical Education & Health

Open Polytechnic

Bachelor of Sport & Leisure Studies & Public Relations -

University of Waikato

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Heidi Chesterman