secondary science

 I have over 15 years of teaching experience specialising in Science, Chemistry, Physics and Maths. This has also involved being a national marking panel member for the NCEA examinations.

 

In addition to educational experience I have also put my science and math skills into practice whilst working for 15 years in the Biopharmaceutical industry.

Mālō e lelei my name is Lavinia and I am a proud Tongan from East Auckland! I graduated with a BSc majoring in Environmental Science and I am currently a science and mathematics secondary school teacher. I have experience teaching maths, science and Level 2 biology. 

 

I know everyone can achieve academic success. I believe there are no silly questions and that being a learner is a continuous process, which is why I love teaching! I am constantly learning from my students. I understand that everyone learns differently, which is why patience is a virtue I aim to use at all times.  

​

My lessons are fun and informative. I love to get to know each student individually and help spark their learning in science and maths. 

Having spent most of my life teaching Chemistry all over the world - including New Zealand -I have, over the past few years,

become a successful private tutor.

I love the challenge of tailoring my lessons to the needs of each individual student and find it very satisfying when I see that I have

made a positive difference.
I am now familiar with many Chemistry specifications, including most of the UK examining bodies, IB and AP Chemistry. I am therefore aware of the nuanced differences in content and approach between them. I have also successfully helped many students prepare for university admission tests and interviews.

After many years of teaching in seven countries around the world my
husband and I have returned to Nelson. I have thoroughly enjoyed being a Biology teacher

for many years, mostly specialising in senior work. I have been both a classroom teacher and a one-to-one tutor. In the last few years I have begun tutoring Biology online and helping students with university interviews. Tutoring helps me get to know the student better and to be able to give them the help that they need.