Titirangi Primary School - Vicki Moffat
2024 | ‘A Journey into the World of Fungi and Bacteria’
Name: Vicki Moffat
School: Titirangi Primary School
Programme: ‘A Journey into the World of Fungi and Bacteria’
Host: Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research
Region: Auckland
Blog: STLP Blog
At Titirangi Primary School, their vision for science aims to empower ākonga to become curious, lifelong learners, and critical thinkers. They strive to create a science programme that nurtures their curiosity about the world, ignites their passion for scientific inquiry, and equips them with the knowledge and skills to explore and understand scientific challenges and advancements. They envision students who are scientifically literate, capable of applying scientific principles. It extends beyond the classroom to actively involve the community. They aim to establish strong partnerships with local businesses, research institutions, and community/government organisations to provide authentic, real-world experiences for their students.
Vicki has had approximately 20 years primary teaching experience across all levels with a gap of 10 years whilst being a mother to two boys. More recently she has worked in the junior area of school and has seen the benefit of science to access other areas of the curriculum. She has explored integrating play with the Science Curriculum as a way of integrating science and other curriculum. She became the Science Curriculum Leader in 2023.
Vicki’s placement will involve her participation in the general research and activities conducted by the Mycology research group at Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research in Auckland. Her activities will be related to the biodiversity, conservation and ecology of New Zealand fungi and bacteria and comparing these to those found in probiotics. Vicki will work with technicians, researchers, university students and other MWLR staff while participating in field and laboratory-based research.
On completion of this placement, Vicki aims to have a deeper understanding of the Nature of Science, of mycological and bacterial research, an increased knowledge of laboratory and field skills and an appreciation for the role fungi/bacteria plays in our environment.