Welcome to our new permanent teachers... Asokan Sadayan - Mathematics

Tell us a bit about yourself?

When I can find the time - my 5 year old daughter and 1½ year old son keep me busy - I play golf (someday I’ll break 90!) or cycle or strum a few chords on my guitar. I also enjoy playing volleyball, badminton and futsal and hope to play socially at least once a week this year.

What were you doing before you joined Ōtūmoetai College?

I taught at Mount Maunganui College for 3 years. Before that I taught in South Africa.

Why did you choose teaching as a career?

It’s very rewarding to help young people engage in knowledge that has shaped civilization.

What is your best experience as a teacher to date?

Not any particular event. However, every note or card of appreciation from a learner to me for being an inspirational teacher is really special.

What are you looking forward to this year?

It’s always a challenge to start at a new school. I’m looking forward to establishing positive relations with my colleagues and learners. This year I’ve also taken on the role of Kāhui Ako for Mathematics which is an exciting opportunity to be impactful at Ōtūmoetai College.

What is a little known fact about you?

I ran an ultramarathon in 2012 called the Comrades Marathon which was 90km!

Lynn Lethbridge - Special Needs Unit

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I enjoy being creative making art with glass and I have just begun restoring furniture.

I enjoy spending time with family and friends and taking my little dog for walks.

What were you doing before you joined Ōtūmoetai College?

I was working as a Special Education Advisor for the Ministry of Education for the past two years. Prior to that I was a Deputy Principal and Learning Support Coordinator for a Primary School.

Why did you choose teaching as a career?

I chose to become a teacher because I was passionate about helping people meet their potential.

What is your best experience as a teacher to date?

Hearing from previous students and watching their progress whether that is seeing them graduate from University, or getting into New Zealand Sports teams, having families of their own or making their dreams come true.

What are you looking forward to this year?

Developing strong relationships with my students, whānau and the staff that I work with.

What is a little-known fact about you?

My siblings and I attended Ōtūmoetai College many years ago as students.