Hairdressing Tutor, Centre for Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy, Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec)

"My teaching depends on feedback from students, industry and peers and it changes rapidly as a result".

Julia “encourages students to have big dreams”. Throughout her 13 year teaching career she has continued to engage in study to develop her own knowledge and skills thus modelling life-long learning to her students and peers. Julia seeks to provide authentic learning opportunities for her students as evidenced by them taking part in the 2007 Hospice Waikato Fundraiser. Her teaching philosophy of collaborative practice, authentic learning and flexible delivery arises from her own experiences as a hairdressing trainee. She has a warm, friendly teaching style and well organized lessons that demonstrate to the students that she cares about achievement and is committed to helping them in their learning. Julia maintains her skills and links with the industry by visiting and working in salons, taking part in seminars, conferences and hairdressing competitions. This is extended by her industry leadership role as Vice President of the Waikato Association of Hairdressers.