DoctorAndrew Lapthorn

I believe effective teaching happens when you create an environment in which students genuinely learn — one that inspires them, cultivates critical thinking, stimulates interest in the subject, and motivates them to take ownership of their learning. I continually adapt my course material in response to student feedback and advances in research, and I have developed new laboratories using state-of-the-art equipment aligned with industry best practice. Setting appropriate goals and challenging students sit at the heart of how I teach.

This philosophy extends across my teaching in electrical power and high-voltage engineering, from large undergraduate courses through to postgraduate study. I designed and lead the Master of Engineering Studies (Renewable Energy), developing a programme that equips graduates to work across New Zealand's evolving energy sector. I am committed to embedding the University's graduate attributes in my courses — including bicultural competence and confidence, through curriculum grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and student projects connected to community partners, and global awareness, through engineering projects addressing real challenges in the Pacific, including Niue and the Solomon Islands.

My research-led approach connects students directly to my work in high-voltage and renewable energy engineering. Through supervision of postgraduate and final-year research, I aim to develop independent researchers and practitioners who can tackle the technical challenges facing modern power systems, and I take particular pride in seeing students grow into capable, confident engineers.