Rayleen Tapara

Teacher Aide for 2 students in Room 35. Support with Literacy as well.

A little about me and my time at Papatoetoe Intermediate School:
My name is Rayleen Tapara. I am a Maori European from Ngati Maniapoto. I have lived in Otahuhu for 14 years. I have a 19 year old daughter and a soon to be 18 year old son who is in his last year of school, both my children are Samoan. I have 2 years experience as a teacher aide and have come from Pacific Advance Secondary School in Otahuhu as a year 9 teacher aide. I also have a Diploma in Health and Wellbeing Youth Work, a Certificate in Contact Centre Level 3 & 4, Diploma in Business, and Certificate in Foundation Teaching Level 4

I started at Papatoetoe Intermediate on the 12th October 2026, so I am still adjusting and settling in. But I am enjoying my time so far and everyone is so welcoming.

My vision and hopes for our school/my class:
By working collaboratively with teachers and other support staff, I aim to provide meaningful support that helps students engage in learning, develop positive behaviour, and build the skills they need for future success. Ultimately, my vision is to make a positive difference in the lives of students at Papatoetoe Intermediate by being patient, caring, understanding, and dependable. I hope that through my role as a teacher aide, I can help every student feel that they belong, that their voice matters, and that they have the ability to succeed.

A bit more about me:
I enjoy dancing and teaching hip hop and Zumba. I also enjoy spending time with my family and extended family as well. I play the clarinet and also enjoy cooking, walking and cleaning. And I have 2 Calico Cats at home