Xaviera Cameron

I am a Kaiako Māori who values building strong connections with students by honoring their identities, cultures, and unique strengths. Through fostering whanaungatanga, I aim to help tamariki thrive academically.

My commitment to learning my reo rangatira and ancestral tikanga is deeply influenced by my grandmother, a native speaker and former Kōhanga Reo teacher. Her knowledge continues to guide my teaching, emphasizing cultural authenticity and respect.

With a calm demeanour under pressure, a flexible approach, and an appreciation for good humour, I am eager to contribute to a collaborative and innovative education team.

I believe in the balance of every individual’s Te Whare Tapa Whā, and I maintain this balance through my passions for traditional Pacific dance, walking, tikanga, and spending time in Te Taiao. Dancing with my feet in the moana, saying a karanga, and giving thanks through karakia for the maara kai are practices that help nurture my physical, mental, spiritual, and familial well-being. These activities are integral to my life and teaching, as I encourage students to connect with nature, engage in cultural traditions, and embrace holistic well-being. By incorporating these practices, along with daily 30-minute connection walks, I create a dynamic and supportive learning environment that fosters resilience, clarity, and growth for all students.

Poutuarongo Te Rangakura Kaiwhakaako – Te Wānanga o Raukawa

• Qualification Focus: Developing into a qualified teacher with a specialized focus on Te Ao Māori, bilingual, rumaki, and mainstream education.
• Māori Pedagogy: Comprehensive training in Māori educational philosophies, including the integration of values such as whakawhanaungatanga, manaakitanga, and rangatiratanga.
• Inclusive Education & Special Needs: Specialization in supporting students with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and blindness, using personalized, inclusive strategies.
• Curriculum Development: Expertise in designing curriculum that caters to diverse learners, incorporating both Te Reo Māori and culturally relevant practices for Māori learners.
• Advocacy & Policy: Understanding the political nature of curriculum design, and actively advocating for policies that promote the success and well-being of Māori students in mainstream and special education contexts.

Conductive Education Teacher Aide – Naenae Primary School

• Specialized Role: Supporting students with physical and learning disabilities in a conductive education setting, focusing on enhancing motor skills, independence, and cognitive development.
• Holistic Approach: Skilled in adapting educational strategies to meet sensory and individual needs, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students.
• Culturally Responsive Practice: Applying Māori values and educational principles to create a connection with students, ensuring cultural identity and well-being are at the forefront of learning experiences.