Primary School,
New South Wales
What inspired you to get into teaching?
I changed my career plans from pediatric medicine to teaching because I wanted to make sure that every student I worked with was left better off. I also remember the incredible impact my primary school teachers had on me as a child. They believed in me and challenged me to be more than my circumstances. They literally changed the trajectory of my life.
Why do you teach?
Every day we step into the classroom we create a future for our students through the opportunities we give them. As a parent I know the dreams and aspirations I have for my own children and I feel an incredible privilege to have parents entrust me with their children to help create incredible opportunities for them now and into the future. There’s a great quote from Nelson Henderson, “The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”
What's your stand out/most memorable teaching moment?
One of my favourite moments is seeing the students I taught in my first year teaching, when they were in Kindergarten and Year 1, sharing the stories of what they’re doing now as adults and having them thank me for the moments we shared in the classroom together is something incredibly special. Knowing that I was able to be part of their journey to bring them to where they are now is amazing.
Have you received a special keepsake from your student/s that you treasure?
A few years ago, I taught a student who came to Australia from Ethiopia as a refugee. He spoke no English when he arrived and we supported him as he adjusted to life in Australia. At the end of the year, he gifted me a beaded headband that he brought with him from his home. It was such an honour to receive as it was one of the only treasured things he brought with him and he wanted me to have it as a gift to say thank you for the year we shared together. I still have it to this day and it still means so much to me.
What is your advice for new teachers or people considering a career in teaching?
There’s nothing quite like teaching. It’s the most amazing profession where you create incredible moments and memories for students that help shape them into the people they are becoming now and into the future. Every day is different and there’s never a dull moment. I couldn’t recommend teaching more highly to anyone considering it. I’ve never regretted my decision to change career paths and go into teaching.
