Video: Chris van Tonder on creating a space of wonder and curiosity

Chris decided to sign up for the programme to further his career as a specialist science teacher for students from Years 1 through to 8.

He says he saw the Science Teaching Leadership Programme as a great opportunity to have extensive personal learning development and experience working within a science sector organisation.

Chris was placed with Auckland University of Technology within the science school, working on the Living Labs project.

The Living Labs project investigates how best to grow back native forest, working with local landowners, especially Māori and local iwi, Chris explains.

The project looks at ecosystem monitoring and incorporates a wide range of scientific disciplines.

Chris says the project interested him because of the opportunity to learn about soil science, bugs, and freshwater quality testing. He had the opportunity to work both in the field and in a lab.

Chris says he has applied much of what he learnt at AUT, particularly to teach students about ecosystem monitoring.

He says an important aspect of his teaching is centred around kaitiakitanga, so students can pass their knowledge on how to care for the whenua on to the next generation.

Chris aims for all students to come to school with wonder and curiosity – “that's ultimately the foundation of science”. This is reflected in The Gardens School’s purpose-built science space that Chris teaches from.

He says STLP has inspired him to make sure his students can come to his classroom and ask questions, investigate, and experiment.

Chris says one of the most beneficial parts of of the programme was the Nature of Science and five capabilities workshops.

“That just provided the lens through which to view everything.”

After phase one of STLP, Chris returned to school with a mission to lead a science review process, ensuring his goals to inspire wonder and curiosity about science are met.

By surveying students as part of the review process, Chris found that many had a “narrow view of science”.

"They thought [being a scientist] you are just working with equations or chemicals."

This narrow view caused them to switch off. “They don't open themselves up to pursuing careers in science. So that's something that we're definitely trying to address.”

And by putting into practice "everything that the Science Teaching Leadership Programme gave me," he is seeing a real change in his students.  

"They're eager to be there. They can find success. They can ask questions. They can be like scientists. That's what it's all about. Seeing them all light up!"

Chris says his placement with AUT provided the “fuel for the fire”, but the professional development and mātauranga Māori aspects of the Science Teaching Leadership Programme have directed him to become the teacher he wants to be.