James McCoy
Sommerville,Auckland
Summary
Dedicated and innovative education professional specialising in literacy, with a strong commitment to continuous learning and growth.Known for a hardworking and humble approach, I bring creativity, adaptability, and a passion for empowering students through effective, inclusive teaching practices.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Humanities Teacher
Manurewa Intermediate School
Manurewa, Auckland
01.2024 - Current
- Since the start of the previous academic year, my experience as a teacher at an intermediate school in South Auckland has been both challenging and rewarding. I have focused on motivating students to see the importance of developing strong literacy skills, helping them understand how reading and writing can open doors to future opportunities. Building positive and trusting relationships has been central to my approach, ensuring students feel supported and empowered in their learning. Beyond the classroom, I’ve taken on leadership roles by running a martial arts club, which has taught students discipline and confidence, and by introducing a bonsai club to encourage patience, mindfulness, and an appreciation for nature. These extracurricular initiatives have enriched the school culture and provided students with diverse, meaningful experiences.
Team Leader
Support Education Team
Plymouth
01.2020 - 07.2023
- Led and worked as part of a skilled and dedicated education team supporting children who faced challenges in mainstream schooling, including those with ADHD, autism, trauma, and other complex needs. We made a meaningful impact on every student, fostering growth both academically and personally.Success stories included a formerly violent teenager who progressed to become an assistant martial arts coach, and a disengaged, non-reading student who developed a love for reading, and reconnected with learning..
Muay Thai Coach
Flo Martial Arts
Plymouth
09.2018 - 07.2023
- I enjoyed sharing my twenty years of striking experience with all ages, all levels of experience, and people from different backgrounds.
- Led group classes, ensuring proper techniques and safety protocols.
- Mentored junior coaches in effective teaching strategies and methods.
- Collaborated with parents to discuss student development.
Ket Stage 1 Teacher
Plymouth School of Creative Arts
, Plymouth
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Taught in a challenging and diverse school environment, meeting the needs of a wide range of wonderful young learners, including those with learning and physical needs. Worked closely with families to support student success and wellbeing. As Head of English, led the department in developing engaging, high-quality planning and delivery, promoting a love of learning and literacy across the school. Collaborated with families to foster a reading culture at home and strengthen home–school partnerships.
Key Stage 3 Literacy Teacher
Plymouth School of Creative Arts
, Plymouth
01.2015 - 01.2018
- Led the delivery of literacy instruction in a dynamic studio environment, designing and implementing engaging, student-centered learning experiences. As Literacy Coordinator, I took responsibility for planning, resourcing, and supporting school-wide literacy initiatives to improve outcomes and foster a love of reading and writing.
Teacher of Science and English
Khon Kaen Vithes Suksa Bilingual School (Thailand)
03.2013 - 03.2015
- Teaching Science and English to children who were learning in a second language can be very challenging; however, it helps you develop a creative and adaptable way to communicate. I also worked as an important member of a team with teachers from different cultures from around the world
Education
Masters Degree - Part-Time Student
University College Plymouth Marjon
07.2019
PGCE - Full-Time Student
University of Plymouth
06.2012
EYPS -
University College Plymouth Marjon
09.2011
Bachelor of Arts - English Language And Linguistics With Education Studies
University College Plymouth Marjon
Plymouth UK05-2010
Skills
- Educator and innovator
- Linguistic proficiency
- Martial arts expertise
- Passionate non-fiction reader
- Bonsai enthusiast
References
References on Request
Timeline
Humanities Teacher
Manurewa Intermediate School
01.2024 - Current
Team Leader
Support Education Team
01.2020 - 07.2023
Muay Thai Coach
Flo Martial Arts
09.2018 - 07.2023
Ket Stage 1 Teacher
Plymouth School of Creative Arts
01.2018 - 01.2020
Key Stage 3 Literacy Teacher
Plymouth School of Creative Arts
01.2015 - 01.2018
Teacher of Science and English
Khon Kaen Vithes Suksa Bilingual School (Thailand)
03.2013 - 03.2015
Masters Degree - Part-Time Student
University College Plymouth Marjon
PGCE - Full-Time Student
University of Plymouth
EYPS -
University College Plymouth Marjon
Bachelor of Arts - English Language And Linguistics With Education Studies
University College Plymouth Marjon
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