A Journey Back to Auckland Grammar
A Journey Back to Auckland Grammar
January 23, 2025
Sam Rainger’s journey to becoming a secondary school teacher is rooted in his strong connection with Auckland Grammar School. A former Deputy Head Boy, Sam has always been a leader, both on and off the field. As the 1st XI Cricket Captain and a member of the 1st XV Rugby leadership group in his final year of school, he developed a strong sense of teamwork, discipline, and mentorship. These qualities have stayed with him in the years since he has left school and have now brought him back to Auckland Grammar, but this time, as a teacher trainee with The Teachers’ Institute (TTI).
After completing a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Otago, Sam embarked on a career in finance, joining KPMG’s

private enterprise team. His work with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and family trusts was intellectually stimulating and diverse, challenging him to provide strategic, client-centric advice daily. However, the desire for a more purposeful career, one where he could make a meaningful impact on the development of young people, remained strong.
“Working in finance was rewarding in many ways, but I wanted a career where I could have a positive impact in a more direct and personal manner,” says Sam. “In a complicated modern world, I realised that teaching offered the opportunity to influence young minds and help shape their futures.”
Sam’s connection to Auckland Grammar never waned, his involvement in sports coaching at the school rekindled his interest in teaching. Conversations with current staff members introduced him to TTI’s new Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary, School-based), and the desire to join was clear.
“It was a bit of a no-brainer for me,” Sam reflects. “The opportunity to learn directly from experienced teachers in the classroom, combined with the high-quality support from TTI staff, meant I could fast-track my teaching skills while earning a qualification.”
Currently immersed in his teacher trainee program, Sam’s short-term goal is to hone his classroom skills, ensuring he is well-prepared for his teaching career. Long-term, he aspires to make a significant difference in the lives of his students, understanding the crucial role teachers play in shaping the pathways of young people during their high school years.
“I plan on making a difference in students’ lives by building meaningful connections that will hopefully inspire them to be invested and driven, both in the classroom and in their personal interests,” he explains.
For those considering a career in teaching, Sam offers a perspective from someone who has transitioned from another industry. “Now that I’ve started working with TTI and have been integrated into the school environment, I can confidently say that this decision is one I won’t look back on with any doubts.”
