THE KIWI TEACHER

This post is about moving beyond buzzwords and exploring what authentic international-mindedness really looks like in schools. It unpacks how multilingualism, intercultural understanding, and global engagement can shift from performative gestures to deeply reflective, student-driven practices. At its heart, it’s a call for courage, optimism, and action — rooted in identity, empathy, and a belief that meaningful change is still possible.

I’m not sure we have to tools to design collaboratively. What I mean is – we don’t have the time, the energy, or the know-how.

I silently wait for the karanga. Invited to cross the atea, we make our way forward. Leaving my shoes by the door, reminders of the need...

I think the future lies in saying, “Let’s try this”, valuing the collective expertise of educators and taking informed risks.

Instead of meetings becoming a teachers gripe, I offer an opportunity to reframe hiw we meet through the lens of hui, wananga and talanoa.

What if we began to weave together the strands of reflection AND practice, thinking AND doing, looking backwards AND walking forward.

If we want to see real growth in our staff and students, we need to ask, “How can I work WITH you?”