Tutors stories

Language and culture: an oral history of ESOL Home Tutors

Thousands of people throughout New Zealand have been involved in ESOL home tutoring in the more than thirty years
since it began. In 2005, ESOL Home Tutors recorded the memoirs of 30 members - tutors, learners, coordinators,
committee members and others who have a long-standing association with the organisation.

To access the recorded material - either contact the National Library of New Zealand or ESOL Home Tutors' national office (natoffice@esolht.org.nz).  

Sharing life's special moments

Husband and wife volunteers, Bronwyn Barnard and David Nicholson have shared special times with their learners. more >>

A wealth of experience

Unlike many new migrants, Ahmed Yusuf Ali already had experience working on a committee when he became a founding member of the Ethnic Advisory Group in 2002. This was thanks to his former role as a teacher and administrator for Ethiopia's Ministry of Culture and Sports. more >>

Making a difference

There are some people who don't live life by half measures. It doesn't take long to realise that Guadalupe Lagrada is one of those people. ... more >>

Italian writer tutors a motivated Afghan student in Christchurch

From epic to short story more >>

Learning from experience

Christchurch ESOL home tutor John Kirby has had a long time interest in Buddhism and the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism, which believes in the Yin and the Yang; two complementary opposites that come together to make a whole. more >>

A person of great talents

There are a lot of different ways of spotting talent. On TV, NZ Idol puts the spotlight on up-and-coming singers. Dragon's Den picks the new entrepreneurs. more >>