From comfort zone to science advocate
SAT STEP boosted Kathryn Blankley’s connections, capability and confidence in science teaching. Now she’s passing that passion onto her students.
Our Impact
The Tait Foundation’s SAT STEP programme is sparking a passion for science education among Canterbury teachers.
The Story
Four years ago, Kathryn Blankley was a capable classroom teacher at Kahikatea Kirkwood Intermediate, not necessarily looking for change. But when her principal suggested she take part in SAT STEP, a science education programme funded and run by the Tait Foundation, she agreed to give it a go.
“Initially, I was reluctant,” Kathryn admits. “I was happy in my routine. But my principal said, ‘if you don’t do it, someone else will,’ so I decided to jump in. I’m so glad I did. It’s been phenomenal.”
SAT STEP provides a small group of Canterbury teachers with a fully funded release day every Friday, for an entire year, to develop their science teaching. Participating teachers are free to focus on the programme, without having to teach or plan their Friday lessons.
The first half of the year involves sessions led by educator Brigitte Glasson, designed to build confidence and capability through fun, practical experiments. Teachers also explore the intent of the New Zealand science curriculum.
“Brigitte opened our eyes to how powerful science is, not just as a subject but as a way of thinking,” says Kathryn. “She also made a huge effort to connect us as a group. Teaching can be isolating, and it was great to build those relationships.”
In the second half of the year, Kathryn applied her learning at Kirkwood, creating new classroom activities and sharing ideas across the school.
“It surprised me how much I enjoyed that. I know our school and our teachers well, so I could share things in ways that made sense for them.”
Kathryn enjoys teaching all subjects, but describes teaching science as something special – a sweet spot of being interesting, engaging and fun.
“I find science to be a really powerful way of learning about the world. Teaching science can sometimes feel like you are teaching learning itself.”
Now a passionate advocate for science education, Kathryn says the value of STEM goes well beyond the classroom.
“It’s not just about developing future scientists — it’s about developing citizens who can think critically in a world where science plays a huge role. If more people had that grounding, Aotearoa would be a better place.”
The Tait Foundation is proud to deliver SAT STEP as part of our commitment to developing teacher ability and putting a value on STEM learning in Aotearoa. The programme is open to Canterbury teachers from any background — no science experience required.
