Katie Gordon
Summary
My career has taken me across science, healthcare and education, from working as an ice core technician, ophthalmic technician and teacher aide to becoming a Science and Biology teacher. While the roles have been different, the common thread has always been people, problem-solving, and learning.
I’m naturally curious and genuinely enjoy getting my head around new ideas, learning how things work, and then finding ways to make complex information clear and useful to others. I’m comfortable working with people from all walks of life and have developed a practical, adaptable approach to whatever is in front of me. I bring strong communication and organisation, a scientific mindset, and a willingness to get stuck in and learn as I go. I’m at my best in roles where I can work with people, keep learning, and contribute to something worthwhile.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
3
3
Languages
Work history
Biology/Science teacher
Naenae College
Wellington, NZ
2021.01 - Current
- Create resources that make complex topics accessible for students and staff.
- Develop science education units responsive to local contexts and needs.
- Teach junior science and senior biology with clear, structured lesson plans.
- Maintain ongoing professional development (Neurodiversity in classroom, NSSI conference, Te Red Maori Language courses)
- Planed and implemented new junior national curriculum.
Biology/Science Teacher
Mana College
Wellington, NZ
2017.01 - 2021.01
- Developed and implemented an integrated place-based curriculum that connected science with other subjects and linked learning to local environments and communities.
- Teacher of Junior Science and Maths, and Senior Biology and Maths classes.
Teacher Aide
Wellington High School
Wellington, NZ
2016.03 - 2016.12
- Delivered classroom assistance and guidance tailored to refugee-background students' needs.
- Offered one-on-one assistance to struggling learners; improved their understanding of complex topics.
- Conducted reading sessions with small groups; enhanced literacy skills amongst pupils.
Opthalmic Technician
Bowen Eye Clinic
Wellington, NZ
2015.01 - 2016.12
- Ensured cleanliness and sterilisation of equipment by strict adherence to hygiene standards.
- Trained new staff members in proper use of diagnostic equipment, promoting a safer work environment.
Education
Master of Teaching and Learning - Education
Victoria University of Wellington
Wellington 01/2017 - 12/2017
Post Graduate Diploma Geography - Geography
Victoria University of Wellington
Wellington 07/2014 - 05/2015
Bachelor of Science - Ecology and Biodiversity
Victoria University of Wellington
Wellington 01/2009 - 01/2012
Skills
- Explaining complex information clearly
- Communicating effectively with diverse groups
- Practical problem-solving
- Working calmly under pressure
- Facilitating groups
- Supporting & mentoring others
Languages
English
Native
Spanish
Elementary (A2)
Te Reo Maori
Beginner
Timeline
Biology/Science teacher
Naenae College
2021.01 - Current
Biology/Science Teacher
Mana College
2017.01 - 2021.01
Teacher Aide
Wellington High School
2016.03 - 2016.12
Opthalmic Technician
Bowen Eye Clinic
2015.01 - 2016.12
Master of Teaching and Learning - Education
Victoria University of Wellington
01/2017 - 12/2017
Post Graduate Diploma Geography - Geography
Victoria University of Wellington
07/2014 - 05/2015
Bachelor of Science - Ecology and Biodiversity
Victoria University of Wellington
01/2009 - 01/2012