Teacher - Room 25
Rachel Keightley
Kia ora! My name is Rachel Keightley and I’m delighted to be teaching Room 25.
I am passionate about creating a classroom where students feel safe and supported while also being challenged to become curious, confident learners. My goal is for every student to take pride in their learning, develop resilience, and grow into kind, capable young people. I believe learning should be engaging and purposeful, with plenty of opportunities for curiosity, collaboration, and laughter along the way.
A little about me…
I was born and raised in Hamilton, and Berkley has been part of my family's story for many years. I have four sons, all former Berkley students. My eldest is a high school English teacher in Wellington, two are studying and playing NCAA Division 1 water polo in the United States, and my youngest is finishing his final year at Hamilton Boys' High School while pursuing his own water polo and study dreams. We also have a mischievous cat called Darwin, who firmly believes he runs the household!
Before becoming a teacher, I worked as a lawyer for more than 20 years. Although it was a big career change, it is one I have never regretted. Teaching Year 7 and 8 students is an absolute privilege, and I genuinely love helping young people discover their strengths, build confidence, and achieve more than they thought possible.
Outside the classroom, you'll often find me watching water polo (sometimes at very strange hours due to time differences!), attempting to improve my French, baking far more than my family needs, or planning our next travel adventure.
I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the Berkley community and look forward to getting to know the students and whānau of Room 25. Together, I hope we'll make this a year filled with learning, laughter, and lasting memories.