Juanita McLellan

Contributing Writer
Always flanked by a beagle - J McLellan
Always flanked by a beagle - J McLellan

I am a teacher with over 10 years experience in the classroom. I have taught English, Maths, Science, Social Science, History, Classical Studies, and more recently, Drama. Drama is my passion and my great love.

Carefully avoiding the real world, I raced off to university to complete a Ba (Hum) majoring in English, Drama and Classical Studies. Feeling reality nipping at my heals, I then launched head first into a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching (sec) with Merit. Teaching has proved to be my calling, though not my only calling. In the category of qualifications I have started and shall one day complete are a Graduate Diploma in Physics, Certificate in Sport and Fitness, and an Advanced Diploma in Information Systems.

I was totally fortunate to be selected for a national leadership training programme in 2007 with Auckland University and the Excelerator Future Leaders programme. There I had a chance to gain valuable insight into how people think, how to motivate and more importantly, network with some amazing people.

In the not-so-distant past, I have been a published author, professional musician, motivational speaker and keynote speaker. I have completed an Outward Bound course as well as a voyage on the Spirit of Adventure. I am an intrepid traveler at heart, and my soul belongs to the sea.

I also indulge in the Arts, fascinated by music, playing the ukulele, violin and singing in the shower. I also enjoy quilting, photography, writing, reading and watching the beagles stare out of windows at rogue unicorns. When I am not in class, I can be found on stage as an improvisor and comedienne. I am an avid traveler, wanting to see more of this world. I have a keen interest in New Zealand, and a deep love of the far north. In my spare time I love to act, improvise, do the laundry, knit and juggle.

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Latest Articles

"The Quiltmakers Gift" - A Series About the Joy of Giving
"The Quiltmakers Gift" is a beautiful story of giving. The series extends into stunning guides showing how to make the gorgeous quilts featured in the book.
Nov 14, 2011 - Juanita McLellan
The Art and Craft of Tatting
While tatting is uncommon today, 100 years ago it was all the rage. It may be time for this truly retro craft to make a comeback.
Nov 14, 2011 - Juanita McLellan
Cost Effective Methods of Feeding Your Family Fresh Produce
We all know eating fresh fruits and vegetables are important for our health and well-being, but in difficult financial times this can be a struggle.
Nov 13, 2011 - Juanita McLellan
Sewing a Simple Sunglasses Case
This sunglasses case is easy to make, yet striking because of the striped piecing in construction.
Nov 12, 2011 - Juanita McLellan
Sewing a Tote Bag from an Unwanted Tee Shirt
Recreating your old or unwanted tee shirts into tote bags is an easy way of making a practical item.
Nov 12, 2011 - Juanita McLellan
Creating Easy and Effective Clown Costumes
Up-cycling your old clothing into class clown costumes is an effective way of re-using your resources, and a great source of fun for students and children.
Nov 11, 2011 - Juanita McLellan
Spend Time with the Whole Family in Masterton, Wairarapa
Masterton is a large town in the Wairarapa, centrally located in the heart of the valley. A trip with the family will delight both young and old.
Nov 9, 2011 - Juanita McLellan
Juggling with Your Class to Improve their Focus
Juggling with your class reaps many rewards. Making your own juggling balls is a great way to do this. Read on for more information and instructions.
Nov 1, 2011 - Juanita McLellan
Tips When Packing For a P&O Cruise in the South Pacific
Having the right equipment is essential for making the most of your vacation on board a P&O Cruise ship.
Oct 29, 2011 - Juanita McLellan
What to Pack When Cruising with a Toddler
Packing for a cruise vacation when traveling with small children or toddlers is an important task. Follow these tips for a happy and successful cruise.
Oct 29, 2011 - Juanita McLellan