Fathima Nusra Nizvi Farin

Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Primary) student
Master of Education with Honours (Second Class, First Division)

Teaching has always been her passion, and part of who she is, says Fathima Nusra Nizvi Farin who came to AUT as an international student from Sri Lanka. After completing her Master of Education, she is now enrolled in a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning to help her fulfil her dream of becoming a primary teacher.

“I chose this programme because I wanted to become a qualified teacher in New Zealand, and learn how to teach in a way that fits this country's classrooms and students. I’m someone who wants to keep learning and growing, and this programme felt like the right path to help me do that properly. I chose AUT because of my experience studying my Master of Education here. The lecturers were supportive, and the course content was well organised, with all the readings and requirements provided in a way that made learning easier. That experience gave me confidence in AUT, so it felt like the right place to continue my studies and train as a teacher.”

It's a decision she certainly hasn’t regretted, and she is now well on her way towards her dream career.

“My postgraduate diploma has exposed me to a variety of schools through my teaching practicum placements, each with its own style of teaching and learning. I’ve had the chance to learn from some of the best schools, associate teachers and evaluating lecturers, and every placement has taught me something new. These opportunities have helped me gain real confidence in the teacher I’m becoming. They also helped me see my own mistakes clearly, not as failures but as steps toward growth, and I’ve come out of each experience a stronger, more reflective teacher.

“Born in Sri Lanka and raised in Saudi Arabia, my journey has taken me across many cultures, and New Zealand has become the place where I bring it all together, learning within a bicultural education system grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Studying in Auckland feels like a breath of fresh air. I’ve found myself surrounded by people with different identities, and instead of being hidden, those differences are accepted and valued. This helped me see the value in my own identity too. It was here that I finally felt free to be myself, and to learn alongside others who felt free to be themselves as well. I’ve already recommended AUT to friends who are going to be future students, because I truly believe that if you want an education that supports you not just academically but as a whole person, this is the place."

Supported to thrive
For Fathima, the academic staff are a key reason she is enjoying her studies so much.

“Every single lecturer helped me learn more than I ever imagined I could. One lecturer had a way of teaching that made sure no question, no concern, was ever left unanswered. Another opened my eyes to my own cultural identity, and that reflection followed me all the way into my practicum, changing how I saw my students and their own journeys. One lecturer's gentle way of clearing up misconceptions in maths gave me something I didn’t expect: real confidence. Another showed me that community isn’t just an idea but a strength, and that sharing with one another can carry us further than we could go alone. Then there was the marae visit, which brought me face to face with the cultural values I already carry inside me, while gently opening the door to new ones, ones that somehow still felt like home. My cohort has walked beside me through all of it, always kind, always supportive, celebrating every small win and pushing each other to grow.”

There are a few staff members who had a particular impact on her AUT journey.

“Dr Ross Bernay gave his time generously, going through every single one of my long lesson plans with real care and patience. Martha McFaul stood out to me in a way I’ll never forget. Even while she was on holiday in Canada, she still took the time to address my concerns, and when I finally met her in person on the first day of university, she checked in with me as if she had known me for years. Dr Eunice Gaerlan holds a special place in my heart. She taught us an integrated lesson using drama, and she made it so much fun that I forgot to be afraid. That courage stayed with me. Throughout my practicum, she was there through messages and Teams meetings, checking on me, encouraging me, making sure I never felt like I was walking that road alone.

“Dr Andrew Madjar taught me how to incorporate UDL into a lesson, and in PE we all came up with such different ideas, which made the learning engaging and created memories I won’t forget. Dr Mary Rahiti was always there too, supporting me every step of the way through practicum. And Dr Jyoti Jhagroo, even on weekends, still found time to reply and support me. The Employability and Careers team helped me build my CV, giving me confidence to step into the profession I’m working so hard for. The student services showed me they truly cared, calling to check on my wellbeing when I was very sick and helping me through my extension paper at a time I needed some support. Every one of them showed me the kind of support I hope to give my own students one day.”

Advice for other students
Expecting to complete her postgraduate diploma at the end of the year, Fathima has some great advice for other students thinking of becoming a teacher.

“Stay open to learning, even when it feels hard, because every challenge quietly shapes you into a better teacher. The workload can feel heavy at times, so try to manage it early rather than letting it pile up until it feels overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – the lecturers and staff at AUT genuinely care and want to walk alongside you.”

She also stresses the importance of working well with others.

“Working with others can be difficult too, especially when everyone works differently. It has taught me to pause and truly see things from the other person's perspective, rather than staying stuck in my own frustration. We’re not in a race with each other. Try to be a friend rather than someone who pulls others down, because the world becomes a gentler, better place when we support one another, even in small ways. Through it all, remember to take care of yourself too, since being a good teacher starts with looking after yourself first.”