Issue 242
Local News for Local Communities
Wednesday 25th February 2026
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ROLLESTON TEACHER INSPIRED BY WEEK WITH DEFENCE FORCE Te Rōhutu Whio teacher and team leader Ryan Pearce says a hands-on professional learning programme with New Zealand’s military has provided fresh classroom ideas and changed his understanding of Defence careers. Ryan was one of a group of educators from across the country selected to attend the School to Skies and School to Seas programme, hosted by the Royal New Zealand Air Force and the Royal New Zealand Navy in Auckland. He first learned about the programme through social media and was attracted by the chance to try something new. But the experience soon took on deeper meaning. “In Rolleston, we have a number of whānau connected with Burnham and other defence forces,” Ryan says. His son is also fascinated by planes, which sparked his interest. One of the biggest takeaways was the diversity of roles involved in keeping aircraft and ships operating. “They have a massive range of roles, from engineers right through to technicians and all kinds of people behind the scenes,” he says. Some of the most memorable experiences included helping assemble parts of a demonstration aircraft, flying aboard a Hercules transport aircraft over Auckland with the rear cargo door open, and taking part in Navy simulations focused on fire and flood
control. Teachers also toured the HMNZS Aotearoa, where they were able to sit at the helm.
The week also challenged common stereotypes about military life. Ryan was struck by how supportive and people-focused the Defence Force is; training was disciplined but also encouraging with a strong emphasis on values, leadership, and culture. “They supported their people and genuinely cared about them.” Back in the classroom, Ryan is already sharing his stories and using STEM resources collected during the visit.
Te Rōhutu Whio teacher and team leader Ryan Pearce.
Continued on page 7…
DEADLINES: Editorial Tuesday 17 Mar ‘26 | Advertising Wednesday 18 Mar ‘26