Meet James – TTI graduate and first-year teacher

Wednesday 15 July 2026

Here at The Teachers’ Institute, we can talk until we’re blue about why it’s great to be a teacher. But there’s nothing like hearing it from the horse’s mouth.

James was a trainee with The Teachers’ Institute in 2025. In 2026, he’s a fulltime teacher at a large, co-educational high school in Auckland.

In this Q&A, he shares his views on what it’s actually like in a school – and why people should consider teaching as a career.

What surprises you about being a teacher?

The energy used throughout the day. It’s an early start with an early finish, but you are wiped out at the end of it and need time for yourself to recover.

Also - saying no to things. I love getting involved with anything I can, but I do struggle to say to say ‘no’. I’m always wanting to say yes and help, but you do have to be kind to yourself.

What assumptions did you make going into teaching?

I thought I was brave going into a new career and stepping out of my comfort zone, so I was ready to take on anything with no assumptions.

What’s different from when you were at school?

NCEA has changed a bit and I’ve seen how Cambridge works well  - it wasn’t offered at my school. 

Also, sports is more focused in schools rather than clubs. When I was in school, cricket was focussed around club, whereas today it’s school first.

Should potential trainees be terrified of teenagers?

No way. Teenagers are good fun and you really feel like you’re making a difference. 

You do have to remember they are just kids and sometimes they are more terrified of you than you are of them. You being there is making a difference and showing up for them. They notice that.

What’s been a highlight?

It’s such a rewarding gig. It’s the only profession where you’re:

1. Creating and planning a fun and engaging lesson

2. Teaching to a class of 30 kids and solving everyday Math problems

3. Running around and smacking a hockey ball as a coach in the afternoon.

Why should people consider getting into teaching?

If you’re empathetic, want to make a difference in young lives, and bring a range of life experiences to school, you will do well as a teacher and be fulfilled.

It won’t feel like a job.