Our People: Kate
During the 8 years she spent working as a primary school teacher, Raglan-based Kate Dermer positively influenced the lives of hundreds of local tamariki. Her highlight? Seeing the joy and energy that they were able to find in the outdoor spaces they developed together.
Now, as Garden to Table’s Regional Coordinator for the Waikato region, this is something that Kate gets to do every day - and the passion that she has for the job is truly inspiring.
Recently, we chatted to Kate about her experience and journey - and we’re thrilled to share her story now.
Although Kate grew up on a farm in the Manawatu, she now lives in Raglan with her husband Andrew, children Grace and Dougal (aged 14 and 11), and new pup Tiggy (10 weeks old).
For Kate, the greatest joy can be found in life’s simple pleasures. She’ll never go a week without a good book in her hands, and she loves beach walks, travelling, camping, swimming, and having dinner parties with friends.
She’s also passionate about environmentalism and conservation - something that stems from her experience as the lead teacher for Enviroschools. Through this, she spearheaded a school permaculture garden project, an orchard planting project, and an art installation that brought attention to the school’s nature trail.
It’s no surprise then, that working with Enviroschools and other environmental educators in the Waikato, is currently the most exciting part of her role.
But, that’s not all Kate does. In fact, each day is quite different to the last.
“My work differs day-to-day and week-to-week. Sometimes, I’m on the phone or emailing teachers and schools, sometimes I’m on the road visiting schools. I do presentations, meet with Principals, troubleshoot with teachers, run curriculum hui, and participate in schools Garden to Table sessions”, Kate laughs.
It was Kate’s friend that originally recommended she applied for the position - and we’re certainly glad she did.
“My friend showed me the advert and said I think I’ve found your perfect job! I figured if I could spread the fun, rewards and joy for both the tamariki and teachers, as well as develop food resilience, looking after Papatūānuku, then I’m winning”.
Supporting and empowering tamariki through the Garden to Table programme has meant a lot to Kate.
“I get satisfaction every time I see kids enjoying their time in the garden and kitchen. When they sit down together with pride oozing out of them about what they have achieved. I also want to get teachers to enjoy the journey as well. Seeing how transformational Garden to Table can be for the motivation of their students, their collaboration, their hospitality skills and the everyday environmentalism which Garden to Table embodies.”
And, it seems Kate’s gained just as much from the experience as the tamariki have.
“I have always enjoyed gardening, but so much went to waste! So frustrating. I have learnt - and am still developing, the art of cooking and eating from my garden. I’m also enjoying cooking for others so much more, and it means I love having guests over for dinner! I used to stress out and through practice it’s become far more enjoyable. I’m inspired by who I work with”.
Ngā mihi nui, Kate - we are so grateful for all your incredible mahi, and consider ourselves incredibly lucky to have you as part of our whānau.