TOM STOKES
Christchurch
Summary
Originally from the United Kingdom, I moved to New Zealand in 2014. I am 22 years old, and my aspiration to become a teacher was deeply influenced by my experiences with my neurodiverse brother and the inspiring teachers I encountered throughout my schooling. These experiences have fueled my passion for teaching and my commitment to making a positive impact in the classroom.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Primary School Teacher
Kaiapoi Borough School
01.2025 - 09.2025
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Implemented classroom management strategies to foster positive learning environment.
- Utilized formative assessments to monitor student progress and inform teaching.
- Adapted teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning needs of students.
Vogel Street Kitchen
12.2021 - 03.2023
Nichol's Garden Centre
06.2017 - 11.2019
Education
Bachelor of Teaching - Endorsed in Primary Education
University of Otago
Dunedin07.2024
NCEA Level 3 University Entrance - undefined
King's High School
Dunedin11.2020
NCEA Level 2 Merit - Endorsed in Photography
King's High School
Dunedin11.2019
Skills
- Lesson Planning
- Behaviour Management
- Reliability
- Diverse Learning
- Parent-teacher communication
- Relationship building
Timeline
Primary School Teacher
Kaiapoi Borough School
01.2025 - 09.2025
Vogel Street Kitchen
12.2021 - 03.2023
Nichol's Garden Centre
06.2017 - 11.2019
NCEA Level 3 University Entrance - undefined
King's High School
NCEA Level 2 Merit - Endorsed in Photography
King's High School
Bachelor of Teaching - Endorsed in Primary Education
University of Otago
RELIEF TEACHING
- George Street Normal School - August 2024
- St Clair School - August 2024
- Maori Hill School - August 2024
- Brockville School - August 2024
- Andersons Bay School - August 2024
- North East Valley Normal School - September 2024
- Brockville School- September 2024
- Waitakiri School - October 2025
- Burnside School - October 2025
- Papanui School - October 2025
- Lyttelton School - December 2025
CURRICULUM STRENGTHS
- Literacy: I excel in teaching literacy by using different strategies to support students. Hands-on skills through shared reading, independent reading and writing. My strategies build strong comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills supported by engaging texts and activities that cater to diverse learning styles.
- Mathematics: I focus on making maths meaningful and accessible through hands-on activities, and real-world examples. My teaching encourages problem-solving and logical reasoning, with differentiated teaching to meet each student's needs.
- Science and Technology: I introduce students to science and technology through inquiry-based lessons and interactive digital tools.
- Physical Education and Health: I incorporate health and physical education into the curriculum, believing strongly that sport and exercise are essential to overall Hauora. Physical activity plays a crucial role in mental health and promotes healthy living.
- Te Reo Māori: I incorporate Te Reo Māori into lessons, promoting cultural awareness and respect. This inclusion enriches students' learning experiences and fosters a deeper understanding of New Zealand's cultural heritage.
PLACEMENTS
- St Bernadette's School year 4/5 -2021 Dunedin
- George Street Normal year 1 - 2021 Dunedin
- Tahuna Normal intermediate year 8 -2022 Dunedin
- Carisbrook School year 3 - 2023 Dunedin
- George Street Normal Models year 4-6 Term 1 2024 Dunedin
HOBBIES AND INTERESTS
Photography: I became interested in photography in high school and kept doing it in university. When one of my shots was shown in a local photography shop, people knew how hard I worked. I also competed in several photography competitions, where I showed off my work and kept improving my skills., Barbershop Singing: I sang in a barbershop chorus for six years when I was younger and sang at many places. This experience made me a better singer and built teamwork and friendship in a fun and interesting setting., Football and Cricket: I played both football and cricket in school, focusing on cricket in high school up to Year 11. A highlight was taking 5 wickets for 14 runs, earning recognition for my spin bowling.
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
- I believe each student is unique, bringing their own strengths and perspectives to the classroom. My teaching philosophy is student-centered, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where all learners can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
- I create a classroom atmosphere that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning by using diverse instructional strategies tailored to meet students' needs. A diverse teaching style is key, and I adapt my lessons to accommodate various learning styles and abilities. Collaboration is central to my teaching, involving active engagement from both students and teachers. I cultivate a sense of community through group projects, discussions, and peer assessments, enhancing communication and teamwork skills.
- I am dedicated to fostering a growth mindset, encouraging students to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and persevere. This approach builds resilience, self-confidence, and a positive attitude towards learning. I emphasize holistic development. I create a safe, nurturing environment where students feel valued and empowered. I focus on social-emotional learning and character development to help students build essential life skills and values, preparing them to become responsible and compassionate members of society.