Primary School,
New South Wales
What inspired you to get into teaching?
My mother inspired me into a teaching career. I went down a different career path, wanting to become a surgeon. My mother always believed that I would be a great teacher. After a couple of years studying medicine, it didn't feel like home. I took the leap into teaching and haven't looked back ever since.
Why do you teach?
We are trained to become teachers that make a difference. I whole-heartedly believe this. Our aim is to teach students the skills and foundations needed for a successful future. I also believe the main reason I teach is to make a positive impact in a student's life. My aim is to see the talent and underlying qualities that makes each student who they are and to bring that out of them. To have someone believe in them is something I want all my students to feel.
What is your advice for new teachers or people considering a career in teaching?
One piece of advice I would give, is to know you're not alone. The school community of teachers is also on a learning journey with you. Find a mentor or teaching partner/s that you can bounce questions and reflections of your school day off. A support system is highly important. Set boundaries for yourself. Your health and wellbeing are so important. Set your routines as early as possible and try not to break these healthy habits. If you're not feeling your best then the students won't be learning from the best version of you. Finally, each day, know that you are doing the best you can and that is good enough.
