Serena Holm
My educational background
I have been involved in education for over 30 years, working as a Classroom Teacher, Team Leader, Mentor, and have been RTLB since 2021. I was honoured to be one of the first 350 Kaiako across New Zealand to achieve Advanced Classroom Expertise Teacher (ACET) accreditation. Throughout my career, I have taught at all primary levels in three large Canterbury schools, working in both single-cell classrooms and modern innovative learning environments (ILE). I have also had the opportunity to collaborate with the Ministry of Education on the design of a new school building.
In 2022–2023, I completed my Postgraduate Qualification in Specialist Teaching in Education (with Distinction), further deepening my knowledge and expertise in supporting learners.
I have been involved in education for over 30 years, working as a Classroom Teacher, Team Leader, Mentor, and have been RTLB since 2021. I was honoured to be one of the first 350 Kaiako across New Zealand to achieve Advanced Classroom Expertise Teacher (ACET) accreditation. Throughout my career, I have taught at all primary levels in three large Canterbury schools, working in both single-cell classrooms and modern innovative learning environments (ILE). I have also had the opportunity to collaborate with the Ministry of Education on the design of a new school building.
In 2022–2023, I completed my Postgraduate Qualification in Specialist Teaching in Education (with Distinction), further deepening my knowledge and expertise in supporting learners.
My educational passions and superpowers
I am passionate about empowering Kaiako to recognize their strengths and unlock their full potential in their work with akonga. Using a strength-based approach, I support both Kaiako and learners, particularly those needing extra assistance with learning and behaviour. Collaboration is at the heart of what I do—I love working alongside Kaiako and Whanau to create meaningful, positive shifts that support the success of all learners. I am dedicated to supporting Kaiako in recognising their full potential in their work with akonga, using a strength-based approach. I am also deeply committed to helping akonga who need extra support with learning and behaviour. I thrive on collaboration—working closely with Kaiako and Whanau to create positive changes that make a real difference for learners.
I am passionate about empowering Kaiako to recognize their strengths and unlock their full potential in their work with akonga. Using a strength-based approach, I support both Kaiako and learners, particularly those needing extra assistance with learning and behaviour. Collaboration is at the heart of what I do—I love working alongside Kaiako and Whanau to create meaningful, positive shifts that support the success of all learners. I am dedicated to supporting Kaiako in recognising their full potential in their work with akonga, using a strength-based approach. I am also deeply committed to helping akonga who need extra support with learning and behaviour. I thrive on collaboration—working closely with Kaiako and Whanau to create positive changes that make a real difference for learners.
My interests outside of work
Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors—bushwalking and working on our section in Motueka with my husband and son. We are in the middle of a five-year planting plan and have already planted 3,000 native trees. I also enjoy beach walks with our two fox terriers, saltwater fishing, and experimenting with new recipes from magazines. Reading is another passion of mine, and I’m an active member of a book club. When I have time, I enjoy crafting, painting, and sewing, and I always look forward to catching a movie with family or friends.
Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors—bushwalking and working on our section in Motueka with my husband and son. We are in the middle of a five-year planting plan and have already planted 3,000 native trees. I also enjoy beach walks with our two fox terriers, saltwater fishing, and experimenting with new recipes from magazines. Reading is another passion of mine, and I’m an active member of a book club. When I have time, I enjoy crafting, painting, and sewing, and I always look forward to catching a movie with family or friends.
Liaison Schools: Leeston, Dunsandel, Southbridge