Olivia Bergeron
Overall Experience
I went to New Zealand for international student teaching in physical education and health! I did my first placement in Iowa and completed my second placement here in Alexandra, New Zealand, at the secondary level teaching grades 9-13 for PE and Health! This international experience has been incredibly rewarding both professionally and personally. I observed and participated in a different educational system, which broadened my understanding of curriculum design, teaching strategies, and student engagement. In New Zealand, I taught a variety of units ranging from traditional sports to outdoor education and health topics such as mental well-being, relationships, and decision-making, specifically for alcohol and other substances. I had the opportunity to work closely with experienced teachers who emphasized student-centered learning and encouraged autonomy and collaboration among students. I also noticed how much emphasis is placed on holistic development and integrating Māori perspectives and values into teaching, which was new and enriching. Beyond the classroom, I built strong relationships with students and staff and immersed myself in the local culture and community. Living in Alexandra allowed me to explore the natural beauty of Central Otago and understand how outdoor learning plays a significant role in New Zealand's education. Overall, this experience has strengthened my confidence, adaptability, and passion for teaching, and I feel more prepared than ever to lead my classroom in the future!
Learning experience
One of the most valuable learning experiences I encountered during my time in New Zealand was leading a health unit on mental well-being with Year 10 students. I was initially nervous about discussing such a sensitive and important topic in a new cultural setting, but I quickly realized how open and supportive the students were when given the space to share and reflect. Through this experience, I learned the power of creating a safe, inclusive classroom environment where students feel heard and valued. I also gained insight into how the New Zealand curriculum emphasizes holistic health—incorporating mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being—and how that can be woven into both PE and health lessons. This experience taught me to be more intentional in connecting physical activity to broader well-being outcomes and to encourage students to reflect on how health impacts every part of their lives. It helped me grow in confidence as a facilitator of meaningful discussion and showed me how impactful health education can be when approached with empathy and cultural awareness.
Memorable experience
The most memorable experience from my time in New Zealand was immersing myself in the Māori culture and developing lifelong friendships along the way. Learning about Māori values, traditions, and language gave me a deeper appreciation for the importance of cultural identity in education. I had the opportunity to participate in local events and school activities that honored Māori perspectives, and it was incredibly powerful to see how these cultural elements were respectfully integrated into the classroom and school community. Alongside that, the friendships I built with fellow teachers, students, and locals were truly unforgettable. These relationships made me feel welcomed and supported, and they played a huge role in helping me grow more confident in myself both personally and professionally. Traveling across the South Island—exploring breathtaking landscapes, trying new activities, and navigating new challenges—also pushed me to become more independent and adventurous. This experience not only strengthened my teaching skills but also shaped me into a more open-minded, culturally aware, and confident individual!
What did you not expect?
One thing that surprised me during my experience in New Zealand was how flexible and student-led many of the classes were. Unlike in the U.S., where there's often a more structured routine and clearly defined lesson plans, I noticed that students in New Zealand were given more freedom and autonomy in their learning, especially in physical education and health. At first, it was a bit of a shock not to see the kind of daily structure I was used to, but I quickly realized how this flexibility empowered students to take more ownership of their learning. This experience challenged my own ideas about classroom management and planning. It showed me the value of allowing students time and space to explore, reflect, and guide parts of their learning journey. As I move forward in my career, I want to incorporate more opportunities for student voice and choice, balancing structure with freedom to better engage and support a variety of learners. It also reminded me that there’s no one "right" way to teach, and being open to different approaches can make me a more adaptable and responsive educator.
What advice would you give?
My biggest piece of advice for other students who want to study abroad or complete an international student teaching placement is to go for it—even if it feels scary or out of your comfort zone. This experience will challenge you in the best ways and help you grow personally and professionally. Start planning early, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out to faculty, advisors, or past students who have gone abroad. Their insight and support can help guide your journey. Be open-minded and willing to adapt. Things may not always go as planned, and education systems can look very different from what you’re used to—but that’s where the most meaningful learning happens. Embrace the culture, connect with the people around you, and take advantage of every opportunity to explore and reflect. The relationships you build, the confidence you gain, and the global perspective you develop will stay with you far beyond your time abroad!
How has this experience impacted your life?
This experience has had a profound impact on my life, both personally and professionally. Living and teaching in New Zealand pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in confidence, independence, and adaptability. Immersing myself in a new culture and educational system opened my eyes to different teaching methods, classroom management strategies, and approaches to student well-being that I may not have encountered at home. I’ve learned how important it is to be culturally responsive, flexible in my instruction, and open to lifelong learning. Educationally, this experience reinforced my passion for physical education and health and deepened my understanding of how these subjects are taught globally. It inspired me to incorporate more student-led learning, outdoor education, and holistic approaches into my future lessons. Observing how New Zealand educators value mental health, physical activity, and indigenous knowledge has made me more intentional about building inclusive, supportive environments for all learners. Long-term, this experience has affirmed my desire to work with diverse student populations and continue exploring global perspectives in education. I feel more prepared and motivated to be a leader in my field, and I hope to seek out future opportunities for international collaboration or even teach abroad again someday. Ultimately, this journey has shaped me into a more well-rounded, reflective, and globally minded educator!
How did you learn about this experience?
I first learned about this international opportunity through one of my former classmates in physical education who completed her student teaching placement in Norway during the Spring 2024 semester. Seeing how much fun she was having and how many valuable experiences she gained from immersing herself in a different culture inspired me. I realized how beneficial that experience could be for my teaching career, especially in bringing new perspectives into my future classroom. From there, I started researching the options available, attending study abroad meetings, and reaching out to faculty members to learn more and begin planning my international placement.
International Connections