Lewis Kittsen
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal,Saudi Arabia
Summary
A dedicated and adaptable educator with a passion for fostering student growth and development in diverse, multicultural environments. With a wide breadth of life experiences, I bring a well-rounded perspective to the classroom, enriching the learning experience for students. I am deeply committed to creating inclusive, dynamic learning environments that celebrate diversity and encourage global-mindedness. My love for traveling and experiencing new cultures has shaped my teaching philosophy. Skilled in classroom management, curriculum development, and cross-cultural communication, I am eager to contribute to the success of an international school community.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Teacher
Hamilton Boys' High School
Hamilton, Waikato
2023.01 - 2025.07
Over the past two years I have taught the following subject areas (Year 9- 13 students): Physical Education, Social Studies and Food Technology. Woven seamlessly through the subjects I teach I have exhibited the following:
- Translating the organisational skills developed through my time in the army, into the classroom to ensure that lessons are well structured, feedback is effective and timely and formative assessment is utilised on a daily basis to inform next teaching steps
- Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs and interests to promote a high level of engagement. My pedagogical practices are designed to develop students' metacognitive strategies so that learning is concreted into real world applications through inquiry and cross-disciplinary practices
- Collected, analysed and tracked data on student progress, and used this data to inform my teaching practices
- Used my experience in the army and working as a chef to provide real world teaching experiences that promote critical thinking skills
- Worked collaboratively with other teachers to review data and develop instructional strategies to address student learning objectives
Manager
The Fibreglass Shop
Hamilton, Waikato
2018.10 - 2020.11
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients to secure repeat business through streamlined communication channels, enhanced internal information flow
- Piloted change management initiatives successfully improving organisational adaptability
Salesman
Kiwi Energy Solutions
Christchurch, Canterbury
2018.03 - 2018.09
- Managed the solar department, overseeing operations and ensuring seamless integration of solar energy solutions into client projects
- Led professional development sessions for staff, improving team knowledge and expertise in solar energy systems and energy-efficient solutions
Soldier
British Army
Gütersloh, Nordrhein-Westfalen
2013.04 - 2017.11
- Operated and maintained a range of artillery weapons systems, ensuring accurate fire support for ground forces during combat and training operations, collaborating with fellow soldiers and maintaining safety procedures
Divemaster
Byron Bay Dive Centre
Byron Bay, New South Wales
2010.03 - 2011.07
- Assisted in marine conservation efforts, contributing positively towards the environment
- Took qualified and unqualified groups out to the diving site, monitoring weather conditions and maintaining high safety standards
Education
Bachelor of Health, Sport & Human Performance - Sport Development & Coaching
University of Waikato
2018.01 - 2021.11
Graduate Diploma of Teaching in Secondary - Secondary Education
University of Waikato
2022.01 - 2022.11
Skills
- Cross-Cultural Communication: Effectively engage with students, parents, and colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds, fostering inclusive learning environments
- Adaptability: Demonstrate flexibility in adjusting teaching methods and strategies
- Classroom Management: Maintain a positive, well-organized classroom environment, ensuring smooth lesson delivery and promoting student engagement
- Collaboration and Teamwork
- Problem-Solving
Custom
I am a passionate coach with a strong commitment to high-performance sport and player development, driven by a desire to help athletes reach their full potential. A key element of my coaching philosophy is fostering a positive and cohesive culture within teams. My ability to connect with diverse athletes allows me to draw on my broad life experiences and build meaningful relationships. I emphasise core values such as respect, courage, discipline, integrity, and selfless commitment, all of which contribute to creating a supportive and high-achieving environment.
Rugby Coach, Hamilton Boys' High School 2nd XV
- Coached the 2nd XV to a national title and two runners-up finishes.
Rugby Coach, Hamilton Boys' High School 1st XV
- Won the NZ Barbarians National 1st XV Championship (2022).
- Won the World Schools Rugby Festival title (2022).
- Won the 2023 SANIX World Youth Rugby Championship.
Head Coach, Waikato U16 Women’s Rugby Team (2024)
- Developed and led the regional U16 women’s rugby team, expanding experience in youth coaching.
- Proven ability to develop young talent and foster high-performing teams at amateur and representative levels.
Personal Information
Affiliations
- Skiing
- Hiking
- Camping
Timeline
Teacher
Hamilton Boys' High School
2023.01 - 2025.07
Graduate Diploma of Teaching in Secondary - Secondary Education
University of Waikato
2022.01 - 2022.11
Manager
The Fibreglass Shop
2018.10 - 2020.11
Salesman
Kiwi Energy Solutions
2018.03 - 2018.09
Bachelor of Health, Sport & Human Performance - Sport Development & Coaching
University of Waikato
2018.01 - 2021.11
Soldier
British Army
2013.04 - 2017.11
Divemaster
Byron Bay Dive Centre
2010.03 - 2011.07