Esther wins the first education scholarship

TOP SCHOLAR: Last year’s Papatoetoe High School head girl Esther McCoskrie has been rewarded for her academic excellence with a prestigious Auckland University scholarship.

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A south Auckland girl has broken new ground at Auckland University.

Last year's Papatoetoe High School head girl Esther McCoskrie has been awarded a prestigious University of Auckland scholarship to study education in 2010.

She’s the first recipient of the award to enrol in the bachelor of education teaching (primary) degree.

Esther will be continuing a family tradition of teaching. Her father is a secondary school teacher and her mother and grandmother were both primary school teachers.

"I have a real respect for teachers and understand that while sometimes it is incredibly rewarding, it’s certainly not all easy," Esther says.

"I really enjoy working with children and think education is an excellent way to have a really positive influence on children’s lives.

"There is always something new – you’re not just sitting in front of a computer screen all day but working with real people and that brings great variation into life, not to mention great challenges too."

The scholarship recognises and rewards academic excellence, all-round ability and leadership potential among New Zealand students wishing to take an
undergraduate degree programme.

It funds Esther’s tuition and she will receive $2500 a year to help her meet the additional costs of studying.

The scholarship will make a big difference, she says.

"It should save me from having to get a student loan and reduces the pressure to work part-time which should mean more time for study and other interests."

As well as a fascination with how people learn, Esther also plays piano, netball and tennis.

During the three-year degree course, Esther will be introduced to the study of education and the New Zealand curriculum and will learn how to apply effective teaching techniques based on leading research in the classroom.

She will also receive extensive practical experience in schools.

- © Fairfax NZ News