A Woman of Many Passions
Volunteer teaching for Adult Literacy, and offering teacher aide work at the Mangere Refugee Centre are just a few of
the experiences Joanne Cunningham has most enjoyed, so much so, that she decided to study for a qualification, the
Certificate in English Language Teaching (CELTA), which she completed at Unitec in July 2011.
She chose Unitec over other institutions because of the positive experience she had in the past at Unitec, for the
convenience of course dates and location, and due to the fact that Unitec provides students the opportunity to teach at
schools.
Grey Lynn resident, Joanne is a 47-year-old mother of three and is interested in reading, writing, watching films,
spending quality time with her family and friends, and taking walks with her dog. Before starting a career and a family,
she spent her youth living and travelling around Europe, and has since enjoyed many holidays away to Fiji, Samoa,
Rarotonga and Australia.
Having had other work experience in various office roles and as a self-employed bookkeeper, Joanne currently teaches
Pre-Intermediate English at AWI International Education Group on a permanent basis.
“Initially I did some relief teaching, got a short-term job contract at AWI International Education Group in August
2011, and in January 2012, I was offered a more permanent position there,” says Joanne.
Joanne wishes to continue fulfilling her dreams of teaching and aims at gaining more work experience and furthering her
studies in the process. When asked whether she would recommend the course to potential Unitec students, she responded,
“Absolutely yes. I found the course very challenging but also really enjoyed the experience. The tutors were a great
support, as were my fellow class-mates.”
Learning to teach English can open up exciting opportunities in New Zealand and around the world. The CELTA (Certificate
in English Language Teaching to Adults) is an internationally recognised qualification that gives you the skills to
become an effective English language teacher. The Intensive CELTA is a 4-week course and starts 12 November 2012.
Visit the Unitec website for more information and comprehensive FAQs. Apply now!
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