Chef Craig recognised for teaching excellence

Three members of the WITT team gained special recognition for their hard work and dedication to WITT's purpose - to connect people to their future - at our end of year celebration in December.

Craig Ludlow, a cookery tutor in WITT’s hospitality department, was awarded the Chief Executive’s 2020 Teaching Excellence Award.

Craig said he was honoured to receive the award, which he attributes to quality teamwork.

“I was thrilled! I think it’s really an indication of what we do as a department and an institute at large though. We all work hard and want the best for our students, industries and region.”

He said he’s lucky to have found the perfect role, combining his two passions.

“I’ve always wanted to teach, and pairing that with my passion and love for food is amazing. Seeing students succeed is the best feeling in the world, and to be able to look them in the eye and shake their hand at graduation when they finally achieve their goals is priceless.”

Craig was a student at WITT many years ago, and after experiencing the world and his love of his industry he was employed in 2015 to start his journey as a WITT tutor.

Hospitality Lead Angela Ferguson said over the past six years Craig has embraced his role as a tutor and WITT staff member. 

“Not only is he passionate about his students’ education journey but also furthering his own education,” she said.

“Craig incorporates te reo Māori and the concepts of Ako, Mātauranga Māori, and Tino Rangatiratanga in his teaching practices, and is equips learners to achieve the best possible employment outcomes,” Angela said.

“He is a valuable member of his team, supporting his colleagues and his Lead, always willing to do what is asked of him, efficiently and professionally.”

Craig has successfully completed 11 papers toward his Diploma in Adult Tertiary Teaching, which he started in 2019. He already has plans on further study in 2021.