Welbourn Primary School - Rebecca Sargent
2025 | Biodiversity in the Taranaki district with the Department of Conservation
Name: Rebecca Sargent
School: Welbourn Primary School
Region: Taranaki
Programme: Biodiversity in the Taranaki district with the Department of Conservation
Host: DOC
Welbourn School is excited to have one of their kaiako participate in the Science Teacher Leadership Programme (STLP) as it offers valuable opportunities for hands-on learning that will directly benefit their ākonga (students). Through engaging, practical science activities, Welbourn School students will gain a deeper understanding of key concepts, fostering curiosity and critical thinking. Additionally, the expertise of a passionate and experienced teacher will enhance teaching practices, helping kaiako to create a dynamic learning environment that inspires both students and staff. This programme will provide the tools to strengthen their science curriculum, ensuring it is both engaging and impactful for all learners with positive outcomes for their teaching and learning design here at Welbourn School.
Rebecca has had 19 years primary teaching experience. During this time, she has had the opportunity to teach children from a range of year levels, abilities and cultural backgrounds. Rebecca is passionate about science and the environment. She has shared the lead of Environment Education within Welbourn School. Rebecca works with the Environmental team to sustain and grow their practices around the school and support teacher planning in the science curriculum.
Rebecca’s placement will see her working alongside the biodiversity team at the New Plymouth office of the Department of Conservation. During her time there, she will be involved in the general activities of the biodiversity team including weed and pest control, monitoring of species such as Whio, collection of data such as a base line using audio samples in the Kaitake Ranges. Rebecca will also have opportunities to participate in other areas such as the marine programme.
On completion of her placement, Rebecca aims to have a firm foundation of knowledge and understanding of the Nature of Science, to have a greater knowledge and understanding of the Biodiversity in the Taranaki region and knowledge of species within the region.