Support School,
Tasmania
Meet Taylor, a teacher from Tasmania who is a strong advocate for equity in education. Taylor shares her experience of how she got into teaching and encourages people who are considering teaching to explore the range of opportunities available.
What inspired you to get into teaching?
As a young Tasmanian Aboriginal person, I grew up on the North West Coast of Tasmania in the town of Burnie. I enjoyed my time as a student. I was generally ambitious with my academic work and was also a passionate sports person. Initially, I took a gap year after Year 12 as the cost of university was an issue. However, while working as a cricket coach doing clinics within schools, I soon realised that PE teaching was something I wanted to do to promote and educate students about sport, health and wellbeing. Growing up, my family had low socio-economic barriers which often hindered the idea of going to university, however I had motivating teachers throughout my education that inspired me to pursue higher education and I was able to secure scholarships during my time at university to assist.
Why do you teach?
I teach because I believe and advocate for equity in education. All people deserve the right to a quality education and to achieve the expected outcomes regardless of social group. As a Palawa person and due to my lived experience, I understand the barriers that low socio-economic families face and want to assist with the growth, development and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in education. The motivation that some teachers gave me changed my life. I will always work toward changing others through equitable and differentiated practice.
What's your stand out/most memorable teaching moment?
My standout moment was when my career took an unexpected turn. I graduated from university with a Bachelor of Education in Health and Physical Education, in my first year out I landed a position as a classroom teacher in support (special) education. I did an internship program in my final year at university, shadowing a PE teacher in support education. My foundation of 'why' I teach had always been strong, however being in this setting really expanded my perspective beyond my interest of being a PE teacher. My philosophy broadened from equitable practice regardless of social group to providing an equitable education for students of all abilities to achieve the best outcome suitable to them to improve their quality of life.
What is your advice for new teachers or people considering a career in teaching?
Teaching is a diverse and rewarding profession. If I was asked 6 years ago, "where do you see yourself in 6 years?", I definitely wouldn't have considered the pathway I went on at the end of my degree or the teaching role I currently do. I would have likely replied with "I will teach PE in a high school" and this reply is completely valid. However, there are various opportunities that pop up and I encourage new teachers or university students to consider all aspects of education. Avenues beyond primary and high school aren't widely promoted or shared. However, google is a powerful tool and I cannot stress enough, if you have a specific area or specialisation you're interested in - see what is out there! After university, the opportunities are endless. Your career awaits.
