Alexis Crockett - 2021 Grantee Spotlight Interview

We are delighted to see our funding and resources are helping Alexis Crockett to continue her studies into 2022 and complete her Masters in Indigenous Studies in February 2023.

1. Tell us a bit more about yourself?

I did my undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education so that I could be an Early Childhood Teacher and I have been teaching fulltime since I graduated. While I was studying I knew that I wanted to do further study after getting some experience and completing my registration.

2. What are you doing? 

I am completing a Masters in Indigenous Studies at Victoria University of Wellington. My study has engaged with Indigenous theories from all over the world as well as thinking specifically within the context of Aotearoa and Te Ao Māori.

3. What inspired you to do what you’re doing?

I felt like I needed to upskill in the area of cultural competency and that within the teaching profession there are a lot of well intentioned people who aren’t sure how to support some of their learners and families.

4. Why did you choose to focus on this topic?

It was something of personal interest but also an area where I felt like there was a gap in understanding in the English medium space for developing effective cultural competency in teachers. Since I graduated I have worked on extending my reo Māori fluency and tikanga understanding through a variety of avenues and this felt like the next step.

5. What made you decide to apply for an HealthCarePlus Grant for Good? (where did you hear about it)

I heard about HealthCarePlus Grants for Good through my union, NZEI. I had been thinking about studying and I figured there was no harm in applying and seeing what happened.

6. How was your experience in Appling for the grant?

The process was pretty straightforward to navigate. It took me some time to think about what I wanted to say, and then to reconfigure it for the word count!

7. How has funding from HealthCarePlus helped?

Getting the grant has been amazing financially. Through having my fees paid I have been able to work part time and focus properly on my study.
It has also been validating to know that others think this is important too.

8. What does this grant mean to you?

I really value the support and vote of confidence in my abilities.

9. What would you say to others considering but hesitant in applying for a grant?

You have nothing to lose! And the journey of applying can help you to clarify your goal and objectives. It doesn’t matter how big or small you think your project is, if you think it is worthwhile there will be people out there who are on board with you.

10. What advice would you give to future Grants for Good applicants?

Think carefully about who you want to act as a referee and give them an idea of what points it would be useful for them to cover. Also be clear about the deadline so you have everything organised ahead of time.

11. What are you hoping to achieve?

I am hoping that I will be able to make a contribution to the way that teachers engage with and support ākonga Māori and whānau.

12. In what way will your course help make a positive impact on others?

I hope that I will be able to engage more confidently with learning communities, which in turn has an impact on learners and their experiences of success.

If you are interested and want to know more this year's Grants for Good and how to apply for one then click below.