Secondary School,
Queensland
Meet Joanne, a secondary school teacher from QLD with 12 years of teaching experience. Learn about what inspired Joanne to get into teaching, her stand out teaching moment and advice she gives to anyone considering a career in teaching.
What inspired you to get into teaching?
In high school, I encountered difficulties because of external factors. The academic challenges were daunting, and I often felt isolated and misunderstood by my teachers. However, in grade 12, I was fortunate to have a teacher who consistently demonstrated care and understanding towards me. Her belief in my potential was a pivotal factor in inspiring my desire to pursue a career in education. My aspiration is to be a teacher who actively seeks out students facing difficulties, providing them with opportunities to express themselves and fostering their growth.
Why do you teach?
I teach because I am passionate about education and the impact it can have on individuals. Working with students allows me to not only impart knowledge and skills, but also to foster personal and social growth. Being a teacher provides me with the opportunity to be a positive role model and mentor for students, encouraging them towards success. I believe that education is a powerful tool that can empower individuals and shape the future, and I am honoured to play a role in shaping the next generation of leaders and thinkers through my teaching.
What’s your stand out/most memorable teaching moment?
My most memorable teaching experience was when I was working with a student who had additional needs and was struggling to remember important things for class. We worked together to develop strategies to help him remember his equipment and complete his homework. One day, he came running up to me with the biggest smile on his face and showed me a string tied around his finger, a new strategy he had come up with himself. Even though he couldn't remember why he had tied it there, it was a significant moment as he was starting to take ownership of his strategies. This was a turning point for him as he began to understand how he could help himself. It was a great teaching moment as we discussed why the strategy didn't work and how we could adapt it in the future so that it is successful. As a learning support teacher, seeing my student making progress and taking initiative in his own learning was truly rewarding and unforgettable.
What is your advice for new teachers or people considering a career in teaching?
As a new teacher, one of the most important things you can do is to be a positive role model for your students. Your actions and behaviours will have a lasting impact on their development and growth. Show them kindness, respect, and empathy, and they will learn to do the same.
Take advantage of the incredible opportunities to connect with your students. Build relationships with them, get to know their interests and strengths, and support them in achieving their goals. Be a source of inspiration and motivation for them and show them that they have the potential to be the best version of themselves.
