I have worked in, and been a part of, the Te Kauwhata community since January 2013. Originally as a local dairy cow vet and now as a dean and science teacher at Te Kauwhata college, I have been actively involved in helping local families and tamariki in a number of different ways; through sport, on farm visits, community events, friendships, daily classroom interactions and school life. Becoming a part of TKP kura BoT will allow me to more deeply support the school community and draw on my skills from a varied set of life experiences. As a parent myself, I understand the need for kura to support aakonga in their individual journeys. Having emigrated from Scotland in 2009, my whaanau and I understand how culture deeply strengthens and enriches young peoples lives. Having a solid foundation of identity allows our children to grow in confidence and with strong values to underpin their learning and personal growth. I am able and willing to listen to this community’s needs and act accordingly.