Ricky Green

UK

Head of PE and Health

Ricky had the good fortune to meet a Kiwi teacher on her OE in London and therefore needed little encouragement to come and teach in New Zealand.

“I’ve been in New Zealand for almost four years now and am enjoying teaching here much more than in London,“ says Ricky.

Here is De La Salle College in South Auckland where Ricky is eagerly anticipating the opening of a new multi-purpose recreation centre next year, which will be home to his department as well as technology and drama. 

“PE has really grown in the school from five senior classes when I first arrived to nine this year.  Currently I take NCEA level one to three classes but we also offer sport and recreation study. “

Ricky enjoys living and teaching in New Zealand for a variety of reasons.  “The climate’s better, the kids are keener on PE and seem more self-motivated generally.  I’m also enjoying being in a school where they have a sports co-ordinator organising all the sports fixtures and I can therefore concentrate on managing and teaching the PE and health curriculum.”

Ricky also feels that people can get ahead better here.  “Although the wages aren’t as good, real estate even in Auckland is still cheaper than London where I was living prior to coming here.”

Another advantage of teaching in New Zealand is the travelling Ricky has managed in his holidays and the outdoor pursuits he says are that much more available.  “I’ve travelled around a fair bit of New Zealand already, and love the closeness of Australia and Asia for holidays - we were married in Bali last year which was really fantastic.”

Ricky’s advice to other teachers intending to come here is: get to know Kiwi teachers to find out good locations to teach in, learn about the curriculum beforehand and come to New Zealand early in January so you have time to get organised before starting teaching later in the month.