Shane Calder

Upon completion of my Post Graduate Diploma, I remain motivated to become a physical education and health teacher. I have experienced the transformative impact educators can have on students' lives. Throughout my own educational journey, I was fortunate enough to encounter teachers who played a pivotal role in shaping my future. Their input and guidance was instrumental in helping me overcome challenges.

I firmly believe that without the support and mentorship of these teachers, my life could have taken a different and less favorable trajectory. Their commitment to my education inspired me to pursue a career in teaching. I hope I can pay forward the positive impact they had on me.

Beyond the classroom, my journey has included over 6 years of personal training experience with a diverse clientele, including athletes, New Zealand representatives, and everyday people. This has allowed me to refine my ability to connect with individuals, understand their unique needs, and provide guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.

Throughout my personal training career, I have trained a handful of children and adolescents. One in particular has been with me since I started. Over the past 6 years, I have observed him develop self-management qualities, life skills, and confidence within the gym environment. I take great pride in helping shape the person he is today, considering the self-doubt, lack of confidence, and motivation he had when I first met him. Seeing him progress under my instruction was a huge motivator for me to pursue teaching, and I hope to have a similar impact on my future students.

I possess strong skills in communication, adaptability, patience, and creating engaging, inclusive learning environments, skills I've developed through my personal training and sporting background. These attributes enable me to connect with students and provide a supportive and enriching educational experience.

My background, both as a rugby player and a strength and conditioning coach, has provided valuable lessons in teamwork, discipline, and leadership, qualities I'm enthusiastic about passing on to my students.

My commitment to teaching is fueled by my love for physical education and health. I enjoy the reward of connecting with students and witnessing the "Oh yep, now I get it" moments. I believe that education has the power to shape character and instill values that extend far beyond the classroom.

The values of South Otago High School resinate with me on a personal level. I believe that my profession portrays respect, perseverance and excellence. I am proud to say I obtained these values initially as a student at South Otago, I would deeply appreciate the opportunity to pass it on to the students within my former school.

I grew up on the family farm In South Otago, this meant I experienced the value of work and an appreciation for the outdoors at a young age. Outside of the learning environment, I like to prioritise my health and fitness as a hobby.

I also love coffee and BBQ's with friends. My sporting interests are rugby, boxing, and summer touch. World Fitness and the Kaikorai Rugby Club are my favourite places to be in Ōtepoti, I spend most of my spare time here. 

As a father to a five-year-old daughter, I am determined to set a positive example, and provide a stable future for her. I enjoy spending as much time with her as I can. My role as a parent has increased my awareness around the importance of education and its role in shaping the future of our tamariki. 

I love playing sport but I understand I am getting older, my body is struggling to keep up. I hope I can use my sporting experience and develop into a coach at South Otago High School.

Name: Mr Jared King

Designation: Head of Physical Education

Mentor Programme: Bayfield High School

Phone: +64275344725

Email: jking@bayfield-high.school.nz

Name: Mr Aaron Corkhill

Designation: Head of Physical Education

Mentor Programme: Kings High School

E-mail: co@kingshigh.school.nz

Phone: 0274246169