One of the most successful teachers of mathematics and science subjects has just established a branch in Henderson to cater to the growing needs of students in West Auckland.
Yogendra Advaryu (better known as ‘Mr Yogi’), Principal and Director of Yogi Institute said that classes will be held at the Henderson Intermediate School (70 Lincoln Road) on Sundays between 1230 pm to 830 pm.
The Institute will teach mathematics for students from Year 3 to Year 12 and science for students from Year 9 to Year 11.
The Institute has two other branches, one each at Mt Roskill and Papatoetoe to cater to students living in the ‘catchment areas’ of Central Auckland and South Auckland.
Indian style
Mr Yogi said that he subscribed to the ‘Indian style of teaching,’ which has proved to be the most effective way of learning and teaching.
“I have found that students, taught with personal care and attention, grow to become professionals using their mathematical skills and knowledge of science subjects.
“The ‘Indian style’ enables students to have a deeper understanding of the subjects and prepares them to apply their minds appropriately,” he said.
Mr Yogi said that his Institute was perhaps the only education provider that conducts regular ‘model examinations’ at the end of each academic year, preparing students to appear in their school examinations, including NCEA Levels I, II and III.
Students studying for other board examinations also learn mathematics and science subjects from him.
“I am proud to be a teacher and derive great pleasure and satisfaction from hearing the progress being achieved by my former students in their careers in New Zealand, Australia, UK and the US.
“The third branch of the Institute demonstrates the growing demand from our children to learn better,” he said.
Overcoming fear
Mr Yogi’s first lesson has always been to enable his students to overcome their pre-conceived notions about science subjects.
“For instance, Mathematics is neither a fearsome nor a despicable subject. It needs concentration, regular practice and of course ‘respect and attention.’ This is the only subject that provides opportunities to score maximum marks,” he said.
His love and admiration for mathematics saw him graduate in the subject and become its teacher at a popular school in his native Gujarat (Ahmedabad) for more than 20 years, in South Africa (Johannesburg) for three years and in New Zealand since 2002.
He began his teaching career in this country by visiting three students in their homes and in less than five years, Yogi Institute became the home for scores of students. He opened the second branch in Papatoetoe (89 Great South Road, close to Hunters Corner) in 2010.
Social responsibility
Mr Yogi believes that teaching is a moral duty and a social responsibility.
“It is a great honour to educate the younger members of the society and set them on the path to progress and prosperity in their lives. There is no substitute to good education and I respect parents who are committed to providing their children avenues for quality learning,” Mr Yogi said.
English lessons
Mr Yogi said that the next milestone of the Institute would be English language classes, likely to be offered at all three branches.
“The importance of knowing English as the language of communication in business and in the community cannot be over-emphasised. Our proposed English language classes will be a valuable addition to teaching,” he said.
Central Auckland South Auckland West Auckland
1/1 McGowan Street 89 Great South Road Henderson Intermediate School
Mt Roskill Papatoetoe 70 Lincoln Road, Henderson
Mon-Fri 5 pm to 9 pm Saturdays 9 am to 6 pm Sundays 1230 pm to 830 pm
Phone (09) 6270070 (09) 2778039 (09) 6720070
