Dear Parents and Caregivers,

My name is Yolandi Knoesen, or "Miss K" to your tamariki, and I will be your child’s teacher this year. 

First, a little bit about myself: I was born in South Africa and immigrated to New Zealand in 2000, and I have called Aotearoa my home ever since. I have lived in many parts of New Zealand, including Auckland, Tauranga, Huntly, and Nelson, but I have enjoyed the West Coast the most. I have two children, both are attending Grey High. In my free time, I venture around NZ and take photos, with creative photography being my specialty. 

My teaching philosophy is that students learn best when they feel a sense of belonging and safety within the classroom, with their peers and teacher. This year, I will also be incorporating many aspects of student voice across our curriculum areas, and I plan to complete goal-setting activities with ākonga to allow them to guide their learning with scaffolding from me.

Please feel free to contact me at yolandik@paparoarange.school.nz 

I look forward to journeying with your children through this year and helping them reach their academic goals.