Education superhero: Clare O’Hagan-Harris

In this series, we celebrate the extraordinary mahi of educators across Aotearoa, whose passion, purpose and superpowers shape the future every day. This month Pukerua Bay primary teacher Clare O’Hagan-Harris answers 12 questions about her unique powers.

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  1. What is your education superpower? 

I’m focused on creating a space where everyone feels safe, respected and encouraged to take risks in their learning. 

  1. Who is your educator superhero, and why? 

Teaching really is a team effort! I’ve been inspired by amazing educators like Lois Brinck, Heather Nees, Wendy Keating and Kirsten Scott. And I’m so thankful for my incredible Team Tui colleagues across the years – they’ve helped me grow, lead and stay passionate about teaching. 

  1. If you could have any other superpower, what would it be? 

I want to grow the understanding that our tamariki are our greatest tāonga, and that nothing should stand in the way of them thriving. 

  1. What gets you flying out the door to work in the morning?  

It’s the knowledge that each day with our tamariki is different, full of surprises and often unexpected joy, that makes teaching so rewarding. 

  1. If you had magical powers and could change one thing in the education world, what would it be?  

My hope would be to lessen the load on teachers. Right now, we’re trying to implement two new curricula while meeting the diverse needs of our tamariki and delivering an engaging, inclusive programme – and it’s an enormous, unsustainable challenge. 

  1. If your superpower was slowing the sun, how would you use the extra hours in the day? 

Keep on top of my paperwork and tidy my desk! 

  1. What superpowers do tamariki have that you wish you did?  

I love how forgiving our tamariki are. Even after a grumpy day, they show up the next morning with a smile and a readiness to give you their best. 

  1. Every superhero has an origin story – what’s yours?  

I had wonderful parents who never limited my dreams, and this instilled in me a deep belief that every child deserves the support and opportunity to dream and become the best version of themselves. 

  1. If you could call in a superhero sidekick for the day, who or what would it be? 

Julie Roberts’ passion and enthusiasm for maths, along with her generous sharing of expertise, is truly infectious – everyone could benefit from a dose of her energy.  

  1. What’s your ‘kryptonite’ (something that challenges your superpowers) and how do you work with it? 

The diverse range of needs in the classroom is a constant challenge. Without consistent in-class support – like having a teacher aide in every room – it’s difficult to give all tamariki the time and attention they deserve. 

  1. In the middle of your daily missions, where do you find your ‘Fortress of Solitude’?  

While my tamariki are eating their lunch I read our chapter book. It is our favourite time of the day. 

  1. What do you like to do once you’ve hung up your cape for the day?  

Spending time with my husband Guy and my whānau, staying active and getting lost in a great book are some of my favourite ways to unwind. 

Do you know an education superhero who deserves to be featured here? You can nominate them by emailing us at ako@nzei.org.nz.

Education superheroes, Primary

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