NZTC-007 Webinar

Having difficult conversations with student teachers

What to do when things go wrong

Format: Recorded Webinar
Watch on-demand,
when you can from any device 

Mentoring student teachers is rewarding, but what happens when things don’t go as planned? 

Whether it's addressing performance issues, misunderstandings, or mismatched expectations, having difficult conversations is never easy—but it’s a crucial part of guiding future educators as an Associate Teacher.

Presented By

Bridgit Williams & Fiona Woodgate NZTC

Webinar Duration

Approximately 45 minutes

Skill Level

Suitable for Associate teachers in New Zealand.

What will you learn?

In this insightful webinar, we’ll equip you with practical strategies to navigate those tough moments with confidence and empathy. You’ll learn how to approach difficult conversations constructively, maintain professionalism, and create an open dialogue that leads to positive outcomes for both you and your student teacher. We are joined by Fiona Woodgate (NZTC practicum co-ordinator) who will also cover the steps to take with your Visiting Lecturer and the Field Practice team at NZTC.

In this session, we’ll cover:
How to recognise when a difficult conversation is necessary and prepare for it effectively.
Key communication techniques for handling sensitive topics with clarity and respect.
Strategies to address underperformance or conflicts while maintaining a supportive learning environment.
How to turn challenging conversations into growth opportunities for your student teachers.
When to involve NZTC and how.

As an Associate Teacher, this webinar will provide you with the tools to handle difficult situations professionally and help your student teachers succeed—even when things go wrong.
Certificate of completion provided
for your professional learning records
About the presenter

Bridgit Williams

MProfStud(Ed); BA (Ed); DipTchgECE; PGDip Montessori

Bridgit has been a professional learning facilitator and mentor since 2008, previously with EC Professional Support at the University of Auckland. She believes effective leadership and ongoing professional learning are key to improving quality in early childhood education. 

Bridgit completed her Masters degree in early 2015, looking specifically at the induction and mentoring of ECE teachers. Her professional interests include effective leadership and communication, inclusive teaching practice, intentional teaching and implementing authentic curriculum.
About the presenter

Fiona Woodgate

A teacher at heart. Experienced Early Childhood Specialist and Registered Teacher with a demonstrated history of working in the Education Sector. Skilled in Mentoring, Technology, Staff Induction and Development, Communications, Curriculum design and implementation, and Educational Leadership. Graduated from Manukau Institute of Technology (Bachelor of Education, Early Childhood Teaching, 2009), PGradDip in Education (ECE) 2016 (NZTC), NZdipL6 Adult and Tertiary Teaching 2020 (SIT) and Master of Educational Leadership (UOA) 2023. Currently Program Leader Field Practice with New Zealand Tertiary College, experienced in Tertiary and Adult teaching, mentoring and knowledge development. Strong understanding of the 'theory to practice' connection. I believe that positive learning outcomes for all ākonga are achieved through quality teaching and culturally responsive practice.