Primary School,
Queensland
What inspired you to get into teaching?
In high school I became a learn-to-swim teacher which helped to show me that I enjoyed teaching children and watching them become more confident as they learnt. I became more passionate about ensuring that all children were able to access the lesson and learn the skill. I always liked school so a career in teaching seemed like an obvious choice.
Why do you teach?
I teach because I feel very passionately about ensuring that students get a positive start to their schooling. As a prep teacher I also believe in supporting families in their engagement with school. Not everyone had a positive experience themselves and it can be daunting to navigate that and want the best for your child. I have the incredible privilege of watching and contributing to students learning about themselves and giving them the tools to access education. Nothing compares to a student thinking, ‘I can’t read’ and then proceeding to read a book. Or stepping back to see their own writing and the pride they take in these huge accomplishments. I get to set the tone in the room for taking up the learning challenge and celebrating success, whatever that looks like for individual students.
What’s your stand out/most memorable teaching moment?
Being the fourth person in the world that one of my students spoke to. He had a diagnosis of selective mutism and we worked for a year to allow him to feel comfortable and build a positive relationship without adding the pressure of speaking. It’s amazing how many yes/no questions you can ask in a day! After working with his family and external support team, we worked towards him verbalising a response. One day, I asked him to tell me a sight word that he knew, and he did! I ran down to the staff room afterwards, cheering. We slowly built his confidence with talking to peers and by the time he left primary school his teachers commented about how much he was talking in class!
What is your advice for new teachers or people considering a career in teaching?
You can’t always do it all. Know your strengths and find your people. We all had to start somewhere. Do not be afraid to ask questions and know that we all get overwhelmed sometimes.
If you are considering a career in teaching, do it. It’s challenging but so rewarding. You get the privilege of being a part of shaping the future and the ripple effect is endless
