Tori Maheno
Ahipara,NTL
Summary
I am a passionate and culturally rooted educator with hands-on experience in primary teaching and teacher aiding, committed to creating learning spaces that are inclusive, supportive, and engaging. I take pride in nurturing a strong sense of identity and belonging for every student, integrating Te Ao Māori principles, science, and holistic well-being approaches to meet the diverse needs of tamariki-academically, socially, and emotionally. My background is rich in developing creative, hands-on activities that spark curiosity and foster active participation, with a focus on sustainability, cultural awareness, and student-centered growth. I'm excited to join a collaborative teaching team where I can bring my commitment to lifelong learning, community, and connection into the classroom, making a meaningful impact on young learners across Aotearoa.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Teacher Aide
Oturu School
05.2022 - Current
- Supported students with reading, spelling, and maths through small-group instruction, adapting strategies to meet individual learning needs and fostering academic confidence and independence
- Led hands-on activities in the school's garden-to-table programme, teaching children about sustainability, gardening, and food preparation, and encouraging a connection to nature and environmental responsibility
- Engaged students in science and holistic well-being activities aligned with Te Whare Tapa Whā, promoting both academic achievement and emotional resilience by supporting taha hinengaro (mental health), taha tinana (physical health), taha wairua (spiritual health), and taha whānau (family health)
- Relieved the primary teacher by managing classroom activities, maintaining a positive learning environment, and ensuring smooth transitions throughout the day, demonstrating flexibility and strong classroom management skills
- Collaborated with teachers to design and implement engaging lessons across various subjects, adapting content to meet individual and group needs, and supporting inclusive, culturally responsive practices
- Built strong relationships with students, caregivers, and colleagues, creating a supportive, communicative classroom atmosphere that upholds school values and encourages community connection
Student Teacher
Kaitaia Primary School
08.2024 - 10.2024
- Designed and implemented lesson plans across various subjects, including diagnostic science activities on foundational concepts like floating and sinking, tailored for young learners aged 5
- Used hands-on, inquiry-based methods to inspire curiosity and engagement in early science learning
- Created an engaging classroom environment by incorporating visual aids, interactive learning stations, and resources to support literacy, maths, emotional well-being, and school values
- Adapted materials to suit diverse learning styles, ensuring all students felt supported and motivated
- Developed and applied classroom management strategies to maintain a positive, inclusive learning environment, encouraging respectful behaviour, active participation, and teamwork among students
- Collaborated closely with the lead teacher and teacher aides to monitor individual student progress, identify specific learning needs, and adjust teaching strategies as needed
- Actively contributed to creating individual support plans for students requiring additional guidance
- Assessed learning outcomes using a range of formative and summative assessment techniques, including running records and diagnostic assessments, to track progress, inform teaching, and provide targeted feedback to students and their caregivers
- Engaged in regular reflections on teaching practices and student feedback, seeking continuous improvement and aligning lesson objectives with The New Zealand Curriculum and Te Ao Māori principles
- Participated in school-wide activities and professional development opportunities to strengthen understanding of best practices in early childhood education and culturally responsive teaching methods
Education
Bachelor of Teaching - Primary
Waikato University
Te Hiku Cohort11.2023
Skills
- Personalised Teaching
- Creative Lesson Design
- Cultural Competency
- Adaptability in the Classroom
- Building Connections with Whānau
- Supporting Student Well-being
- Using Technology for Learning
- Professional Communication
- Teamwork
- Reflective Growth
- Positive Behaviour Support
- Time Management and Organisation
Awards
Toka Tū Moana Award 2024
The Toka Tū Moana Award is based on a whakataukī that speaks of strength in adversity, symbolised by the "rock standing strong in the sea." This award was given to me in recognition of my ongoing commitment to learning and success, despite the challenges I’ve faced.
It acknowledges my dedication to growth, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge to support both my own journey and the success of my students. I’m honoured that this award has been named after me, and it will continue to recognise future recipients who show the same resilience and determination in their learning journey.
Eportfolio
https://sites.google.com/view/portfolio-tori-maheno/home
Timeline
Student Teacher
Kaitaia Primary School
08.2024 - 10.2024
Teacher Aide
Oturu School
05.2022 - Current
Bachelor of Teaching - Primary
Waikato University
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