‘A Day in the Life’ will highlight the incredible mahi done by our NZEI Te Riu Roa members. It will show the reality of our educators who care for the tamariki of Aotearoa, and celebrate all the parts that make us a diverse and inspiring bunch!
If you would like to see a colleague or yourself in this series, please get in touch with us at ako@nzei.org.nz.
Q1: Tell us about yourself?
Hello! My name is Megan Hay. This is my fourth year as a lab manager & sole science technician for Hillcrest High School in Hamilton.
I have worked in the public service and many other industry fields, but I have always been drawn to education. With three generations of teachers in the family, it’s hard not to.
I live in rural Waikato and enjoy the views of sheep and cows in the fields, while having my morning coffee. I love to spend time at the gym and in my garden to relax after a busy day.
Q2: Biggest teacher/mentor growing up?
I would have to say my father. Dad always taught me to give things a try. He also taught me that anything that breaks or falls apart can be fixed or put back together. Many happy memories with Dad in the garage working on my car or another project.
That has helped me with my current role, where I have to build, make, or repair things daily! Skills like problem solving, thinking outside the box and coming up with ideas quickly to resolve any issues that arise.
Q3: What does your day look like?
No two days are the same! This position requires dexterity to be able to juggle multiple tasks at once. There’s staff and students popping in needing support or having questions throughout the day, plus completing all the different technical support requests for lessons.
I spend most of my day supporting 14 science teachers with resources for lessons and equipment for practicals. I plan several weeks ahead to follow the lesson timelines to prepare for lessons, internal assessments and exams. Also making sure all the gear is ready for day and overnight trips.
I look after the Health & Safety of the science department and give support to the wider school population. Anything can happen, and it usually does! But that’s all part of the fun!
There is also communication with other science technicians during the day, giving support and inspiration to each other. As most of us are the only science technician at school, the forum is essential for any day-to-day queries and contact.
This year, I am part of the planning committee for our biennial conference to be held in October and I am also fulfilling a role on the STANZ Executive which requires me to be available to support other members as needed.
Q4: People think my job is… but it’s actually…
Most people probably think my job is just filling chemical bottles and washing beakers…but it is so much more than that!
As well as my day (above), I also look after 12 labs, complete staff and student inductions, help students with projects and resources for their assessments.
I also have fishponds and horticulture area to maintain, and from time-to-time I have insects and habitats to care for.
Q5: Favourite part of the day?
My favourite part of my day is when I get a chance to interact with students. Often, I am asked to run a demonstration for a science class; watching the students’ faces light up with fascination and understanding is definitely a highlight!
I am very lucky to have such a diverse and challenging role; I feel privileged to be part of Hillcrest High School.
