Brian Toleafoa - Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary)
In 2023, Brian Toleafoa completed a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Education. It was not an easy journey, but it was a milestone that he and his family celebrated with pride before moving onto the next stage in his journey: the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary).
“I come from a large Samoan family full of educators across the education sector, ranging from early childhood to tertiary education. This includes primary and high school teachers, to Principals and university lecturers. I had tried other things over the years, but I have always known that I would eventually become a teacher. I have always been passionate about influencing the next generation and have endeavoured to support ākonga in every way I can. Teaching is now the next step for me - it’s in the blood!"
I chose the University of Auckland (UoA) Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary) because I knew several teachers that had been through the programme in the past and are now fantastic teachers. They recommended the programme to me and so it was a no-brainer.
Having previously worked for several years as a Teacher Aide and working in the youth sector alongside various schools across Tāmaki Makaurau to support ākonga of the primary age range, the primary age group was where Brian felt he could make the biggest impact.
“I have always found working with tamariki in the primary specialisation an absolute joy.”
For Brian, the highlight of the programme has been the strong relationships he has built with his cohort of fellow teaching students as they navigated their intensive year together.
“Throughout the year I was privileged to serve as my cohort’s student representative. So, another highlight for me was to represent my fellow colleagues as their voice, working collaboratively alongside the amazing teaching staff to provide greater outcomes for us all.
“Thanks to the Graduate Diploma Teaching (Primary), I have managed to secure a full-time teaching role at Kowhai Intermediate School, with an added focus of promoting Pasifika success within the school. I am grateful to have the opportunity to teach in the local school, particularly with an added focus on giving back to my own communities in a meaningful way.”
Brian’s advice for anyone thinking of becoming a teacher, especially if you’re thinking about a change of career is the following:
“Firstly, ensure that you have a strong support system to journey alongside you. As the Samoan saying goes, “e le tū fa’amauga se tagata” which means, “no one stands alone, no one succeeds alone.” My family have been, and continue to be, the firm foundation that give me the confidence and support to thrive in any environment I occupy. Make sure you have solid support who can be with you through it all.
“Secondly, visit your local primary school for the day and observe the school’s daily routine. Ask yourself, ‘Is this for me? Can I see myself in this space?’
“After you have done both things and you have answered yes to both those questions, go ahead and enrol. You will not regret it!
“I am truly humbled and thankful to my amazing family who make every step of this journey worthwhile. All I do, is in dedication and service to you! Fa’afetai tele lava.”