Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Why I am applying for the Tairua Junior Teacher Position
References
Timeline
Generic

Nicola Houghton

Coromandel,Tairua

Summary

I am passionate about working with children, and fortunately, already a familiar, trusted role model in the Tairua community with my home-schooling business. I bring strong skills in lesson planning, creativity, and organisation, making learning engaging and tailored to individuals and as a group. With experience managing diverse learning styles, I create a supportive environment where kids thrive. I am a great communicator, and I am excited at the prospect of getting to know more whānau and tamariki in our beautiful home, Tairua. I approach teaching with an open mind, a commitment to growth, and a genuine love for learning—both for myself and my students.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience

Work History

Home School Teacher

Self Employeed
Tairua, Coromandel
04.2022 - Current
  • Design and plan individualised learning sessions that cater to the diverse strengths and preferences of each child in a range of age groups from 6 months old to 10 years old.
  • Focus on each individual child's interests to make learning more engaging and relevant.
  • Effectively communicating with families, and maintaining a high level of organisation to ensure all families are looked after.
  • Prioritising the well-being of Tāmariki, creating a safe and comforting environment in the natural world.
  • Working with a wide range of curricula to teach children important skills such as reading, writing, mathematics, and physical education.
  • Highly organised, self-motivated, and dedicated to professional development and best teaching practices.
  • Following closely the practices of Te Whāriki.

Early Childhood Educator

Country Kids
Tairua, Auckland
03.2021 - 04.2022
  • Promoted effective communication between staff members by participating actively in team meetings.
  • Established indoor and outdoor safe play environments for toddler-age children.
  • Promoted children's well-being and development by adhering to consistent daily routines.
  • Designed and modified the classroom layout to create an accessible and interactive learning space.
  • Directed and supervised children during field trips and special activities.

Early Childhood Educator

Kindercare
Botany Downs, Auckland
01.2018 - 03.2021
  • Adapted teaching methods to meet the individual needs of each child based on assessments of their abilities and interests.
  • Met with parents to discuss child behaviour and progress.
  • Held mat times relevant to children's interests and taught valuable life skills.
  • Attended team meetings with other educators in order to share best practices, or discuss any issues related to childcare services.
  • Maintained a clean classroom environment ensuring toys are sanitized regularly.
  • Organised indoor and outdoor playtime activities to promote physical and mental development of children.
  • Encouraged creativity through art, music, dramatic play and other creative activities.
  • Assisted students with special needs by providing additional support when required.
  • Collaborated with parents in order to discuss their child's progress or any concerns they may have had regarding their child's development or behavior.

Education

Level 7 - Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

NZTC
Auckland
03-2022

Skills

  • Great at lesson planning
  • Strong communicator
  • Positive reinforcement
  • Kind
  • Positive
  • Role model positive behavior
  • Great listener
  • Team player
  • Creative
  • Problem solver
  • Patient and empathetic
  • Adaptable

Why I am applying for the Tairua Junior Teacher Position

I’m excited to apply for a role at Tairua Primary School, having already, strong relationships within the community, my ability to connect with children, and my passion for creating engaging, and meaningful learning experiences. As a relational and people-focused educator, I prioritise building trust with both students and families, ensuring children feel supported and encouraged to thrive

Though my background is in early childhood education, I have three years of experience homeschooling across multiple age groups, giving me a deep understanding of individualised learning, creative lesson planning, and student engagement. I would be excited to bring these skills into the classroom, and I am fully committed to growing in my new role as a Year 2 teacher, embracing new challenges with enthusiasm and dedication.

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Home School Teacher

Self Employeed
04.2022 - Current

Early Childhood Educator

Country Kids
03.2021 - 04.2022

Early Childhood Educator

Kindercare
01.2018 - 03.2021

Level 7 - Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

NZTC
Nicola Houghton