Just what is it ....
In less than 3 weeks I will be a pensioner. So, what shall I do with myself? I saw an ad on Neighbourly by an outfit called English Language Partners a few weeks ago. Asking for volunteers. Teaching English to new immigrants I expect. Now, I have a post-grad diploma in education (that's a bit more than an M.A. where I come from), I spent years teaching German as a Second Language to Vietnamese Boat People, I have specialist phonetics training. I am familiar with the Berlitz method.
I've taken people with no knowledge of the language through to university entrance level ....
I thought: I'll give these guys a ring. I might be able to help, I don't need extra pay ...
... well, I have barely started to introduce myself when the woman goes "Do you have a certificate in teaching English as a Second Language?"
No, I don't. (but I probably have better experience and teaching skills than many of the people working for you -- I didn't say that, though).
She just fobbed me off: "Well in that case I cannot employ you." Click.
I wasn't actually looking for EMPLOYMENT. I was offering to volunteer. This was a real Simpsons moment for me .... doh! Ah well. Sadly, I know I'd be no good at picking up trash by the roadside, my knees would not allow me. Ho hum. At times the ignorant arrogance of some Kiwis is just mind-boggling to me.
Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
🎉 2026 is almost here!
We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?
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10.3% Yes! New Year, New Me
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20.1% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
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69.6% Nah - not for me
Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!
Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?
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78.7% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
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21.3% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
Simply Google “Inclusive World NZ”
✨ This is your invitation ✨
Simply Google “Inclusive World NZ” and head to the Digital Library tab.
There you’ll find a wide range of downloadable resources, including children’s flipbooks, disability awareness flipbooks, posters, and more — all created to support inclusion, understanding, and representation 💛
Inclusive World NZ is owned and created by our registered charity, Children with Disability NZ, so every download helps support our mission to build a more inclusive Aotearoa for everyone.
Because inclusion starts with understanding 🌱
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