In December 2020, Ada celebrated completing the HIPPY programme with her son at the HIPPY graduation ceremony. Two years later, she was proud to be handing out certificates to new HIPPY graduates she had helped as a HIPPY Tutor.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do at Great Potentials Foundation.

I am Ada, and I am a HIPPY Tutor at the Papakura Family Service Centre. I came to New Zealand from China as a student 22 years ago, and I’m still enjoying living here! I have two lovely boys who are seven and ten. I have a degree in food science and worked in this area before having children.

Prior to HIPPY, I spent most of my time looking after my boys and volunteering as an English tutor for new migrants. I joined HIPPY as a parent with my younger son, George in 2019. Then I joined Great Potentials Foundation as a HIPPY Tutor in early 2021.

What is a typical day at your job?

As a HIPPY Tutor, I visit our HIPPY families each week at their homes and deliver the HIPPY programme. I send HIPPY families a text reminder the day before my weekly visit to confirm times and make sure they are well prepared. After I drop my children off at school, I am on the road for home visits – usually four a day. I spend an hour with each parent delivering the programme, collecting samples from last week's workbook, and gathering feedback from their experience teaching their child with HIPPY materials.

What do you love the most about your job?

There were times as a stay-at-home mother when I felt isolated. This job gives me opportunities to meet like-minded people who are also interested in education. It’s rewarding to see HIPPY families giving their children the life skills needed to set them up for school and learning.

Tell us about a special moment during your time in your role.

Our Graduation ceremonies are always special. In December 2020, I was one of the parents standing with my son George celebrating the completion of our HIPPY programme. Last year, I was proud to be a HIPPY Tutor handing out certificates to parents and children at the HIPPY graduation 2022. It’s a pleasure to be involved in their learning journeys to success.