

Welcome to JonnyThompsonEducator.com Discover quick facts; my teaching strengths and philosophy; work experience and qualifications; feedback from colleagues and stakeholders (including written references); and a sample of the student projects I've helped design.
Do reach out to me via my contact details! You'll find them—plus a downloadble CV—at the foot of each page of this website.​
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I'm happy to share an up-to-date list of verbal referees upon request.
PERSONAL STRENGTHS:
Collaboration and Leadership
Student Connection and Wellbeing
Writing
Technology Integration
Speaking, Performance and Engagement
Commitment to Excellence
QUICK FACTS:
CORE:
Twelve years teaching experience (Singapore; New Zealand)
International school experience (Stamford American, Singapore)
Deep understanding of literacy and numeracy
Experienced wellbeing teacher
Advanced and Certified Tech User (Google Educator; Apple Teacher; Seesaw Ambassador; Scratch Educator; MakeyMakey Teacher)
Recipient of the 2023 Ākina Tohu Award for innovation in
educational delivery
Post-Graduate Certificate in Digital and Collaborative Learning
Master's Degree: Creative Writing
Graduate Diploma*: Teaching (Primary/Elementary)
*equivalent of Bachelor’s Degree
Bachelor’s Degree: Theatre and Film
Curricula: IB PYP; AERO; NZC
Several years’ experience woking within professional
film and video industries
CCAs:
Wellbeing
Film/Video Production and Studies
Creative Writing
Drama
School News
Football (Soccer)
Orienteering
EXTRAS:
Outdoors Enthusiast (including Overseas Camp experience)
Service Advocate
PROFILE:
I’m Jonny, an experienced primary teacher with twelve years of classroom and international school experience in Singapore and New Zealand. My practice focuses on building strong relationships, maintaining clear classroom routines and expectations, and delivering engaging, curriculum-aligned learning experiences. I value collaborative planning within year teams and work closely with colleagues to ensure consistency in learning, behaviour expectations, and student wellbeing.
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I have extensive experience in multicultural schools, both in New Zealand and internationally at Stamford American International School, Singapore. I am recognised for creating inclusive, engaging learning experiences that inspire curiosity and critical thinking. Currently, I work as a Life Education teacher in New Zealand, a regional role I took on to intentionally build depth in personal, social and health education.
​Alongside my qualifications — a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre and Film, a Graduate Diploma in Teaching, a Master’s Degree in Creative Writing, and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Digital and Collaborative Learning — I bring several years of professional experience in film and creative technologies, including VFX production as well as writing for children’s television.
​Having previously lived and taught in Singapore, my wife and I value its multicultural, international community. We’re excited to return and settle long-term, providing our children, aged five and seven, with a holistic education that emphasises both academic excellence and intercultural understanding.
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY:
Connect.
I'm known for my deep, authentic connection with students and my ability to create an inclusive, joyful classroom culture. Colleagues consistently describe me as warm, approachable, and trusted by learners. I invest time in truly knowing each student—academically, socially, and emotionally—and consistently tailor my teaching to meet their individual needs, interests, and backgrounds. My classrooms are marked by laughter, respectful dialogue, and a strong sense of belonging. I maintain clear classroom routines and expectations so that students understand how to contribute positively to their learning community.
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My goal as a teacher is to support students to grow in confidence and character. By fostering genuine relationships and demonstrating care in every interaction, I create an environment where students feel safe to take risks, explore big ideas, and engage fully in their learning. I believe that students should not only be capable thinkers, but also kind, curious, and self-aware.​
Michael O'Brien, Team Leader:
​“One thing that instantly stands-out about Jonny is his warm personality and the amazing relationships he builds with the entire school community.”​
Engage.
I consistently deliver highly engaging, well-structured lessons that are standards-aligned and contain clear learning outcomes. My carefully designed learning experiences blend skill development with student curiosity—making concepts meaningful, relevant, and accessible. I ensure that these experiences remain closely aligned with curriculum standards and collaboratively developed year-team plans. Colleagues and curriculum leaders have praised my ability to balance creativity with precise curriculum alignment, and the ease at which I integrate technology. I have a long-standing background in creative technology, as both an industry professional and tech-certified educator.
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Whether leading whole-class inquiries, facilitating small-group discussions, or integrating digital tools to support reflection and collaboration, I bring energy, clarity, and an expectation of excellence to my teaching.
Perry Tkachuk, PYP Coordinator:
"Jonny goes to great lengths to create learning experiences that make aspects of subject matter meaningful and personal for all students...
...he is the 'go to' person when it comes to anything to do with technology."
Inspire.
A love of learning is caught and taught. Enthusiasm, curiosity and an adventurous spirit are essential. I genuinely believe in the potential of every student—and that belief shows in my classroom every day. I create a culture of high expectations grounded in encouragement, empathy, and trust, inspiring students to take ownership of their learning and strive for personal excellence. With passion, positive energy and unwavering optimism, I help students see themselves not just as learners, but as competent, creative, and valued individuals. I regularly reflect on my practice with colleagues, sharing ideas and feedback so that we continually improve learning experiences for students.
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By combining meaningful feedback and relational support, I support learners to grow intellectually and emotionally. I want my students to know that I truly believe in them, so that they become intrinsically motivated to grow and succeed.
Vanessa Kay, Language Arts Coordinator:
“He inspires both his students and colleagues.”