Kirkwood Intermediate School - Kathryn Mason

Name: Kathryn Mason

School: Kirkwood Intermediate School

Programme: ‘Terrestrial and Fresh-water Biodiversity and Genetic Research on Little Blue Penguins’

Region: Canterbury

Host: School of Biological Sciences - University of Canterbury

Kirkwood Intermediate School’s vision in science is to develop scientific literacy and knowledge for all students so that they can participate as confident and connected citizens in a society where science plays a big part. Through participating in the Science Teaching Leadership Programme, Kirkwood intends to focus on science as a curriculum area and use this opportunity to improve their science curriculum and pedagogy. They also hope to build connections with the University of Canterbury and other science organisations in Christchurch so that they can offer a range of science opportunities for their students.

Kathryn has taught as a classroom teacher at Kirkwood Intermediate School since 2014, which has given her the opportunity to work consistently with good mentors, role-models, and leaders to develop her practice while working with a diverse range of students. Kathryn has an interest in science education and is passionate about helping children to develop their own interest in science.

Kathryn’s placement with the University of Canterbury will see her work with many students and academics across a variety of contexts. Kathryn will assist with genetic and behavioural research on pipefish, genetic research on penguins and biodiversity monitoring of insects in several environments. Kathryn will have a variety of field experiences, such as catching pipefish in Bluff, catching insects in the University’s biodiversity meadow or assisting with Little Blue Penguin nestbox monitoring on Banks Peninsula. She will also contribute to behavioural research through video analysis in an office, genetic research through lab work and biodiversity research through insect identification with a microscope. Involvement in such a vast array of experiences and contexts will provide Kathryn with the perfect learning experience for her to explore the nature of science itself, answering questions about the enduring values, practices and themes that transcend scientific disciplines.

The experience and educational opportunities provided by the Science Teaching Leadership Programme will support Kathryn’s professional and personal development. Upon completion of her placement Kathryn will return to Kirkwood Intermediate with a deeper understanding of science, firsthand experience of scientific research, better contextual knowledge and a network of connections to support her in providing meaningful learning opportunities for students.