Laura Merce dela Cruz

Secondary English Teacher, Howick College
Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching

She chose the Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching primarily to return to her first calling, teaching, says Laura Merce dela Cruz, who came to AUT as an international student from the Philippines.

“I had previously completed a bachelor’s degree in secondary education, majoring in English; however, after graduating, I pursued a career in the corporate sector. Although that experience was valuable, I always felt that teaching was something I wanted to return to. The graduate diploma allowed me to build on my previous education and take a meaningful step towards becoming a secondary school teacher in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“It took me a while to decide which university to enrol in, but I ultimately chose AUT because of its practical and student-centred approach to teacher education. I was particularly attracted to the opportunity to connect what I was learning with authentic classroom experiences and to develop the skills needed to work with learners from diverse backgrounds. AUT’s focus on preparing teachers for the realities of teaching in New Zealand also appealed to me. It felt like the right programme and the right place to turn that aspiration into a career. My AUT graduation was a particularly special moment because it marked the completion of a journey I had returned to after working in another field. It was a proud and meaningful reminder that I had followed through on my goal of becoming a teacher.”

She considers the teaching practicum placements the most valuable aspect of the programme.

“The practicum placement enabled me to move beyond theory and experience what teaching is really like in a secondary school. I understood what it means to work with different learners, build relationships with students and learn from an experienced, seasoned teacher. Most importantly, the experience helped me develop confidence and a stronger sense of who I am as a teacher. It gave me practical skills, professional relationships and a much clearer understanding of the responsibility and rewards that come with teaching.”

Creating safe learning spaces
After graduating from AUT in July 2026, Laura now enjoys her role as a secondary English teacher at Auckland’s Howick College.

“What I enjoy most about teaching is the opportunity to connect with students and be part of their learning journey. Every student is different, so no two days or lessons are exactly the same. I enjoy finding different ways to engage students, especially when I see a student become interested in something they initially found challenging. I’m most proud of being able to build genuine relationships with my students and earning their trust. For me, teaching is about more than delivering lessons or achieving academic outcomes. I’m particularly proud when students feel comfortable enough to share their thoughts, ask questions, express themselves and be themselves in my classroom. Creating a safe and supportive space where students feel they can take risks with their learning has been incredibly rewarding.”

She says her studies at AUT prepared her well for her career as a teacher.

“AUT prepared me to be reflective, adaptable and open to learning from every classroom experience. What I didn’t fully anticipate was just how much flexibility teaching requires. I learned about planning lessons and managing a classroom, but I didn’t realise how often I’d need to adapt in the moment to different students, personalities, learning needs and situations. I also didn’t anticipate how much teaching would challenge me to grow personally. It has taught me patience, resilience and confidence, and reminded me that becoming a teacher is an ongoing journey.”

Advice for other students
Laura has some great advice for other students who are thinking about becoming a teacher.

“Make the most of every opportunity to learn, especially the practical experiences. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes and take the time to reflect, ask questions and learn from the people around you. Connect what you learn in lectures with what you experience in practicum. Try theories and strategies out in the actual classroom and see how they work with real students.”

It's a noble job, she adds.

“Teaching is a noble profession because it’s ultimately about people. Put students first, get to know them, build trust and create a space where they feel valued, safe and able to grow before teaching them.”