Primary School,
New South Wales
What inspired you to get into teaching?
It all begins with that one, special teacher. For me, it was my Year 3 teacher. I loved learning in her classroom, found my confidence in her classroom, and she also selected me for my first ever primary school netball team. This path led me to gain a position at a sporting high school. She made me feel like I mattered, I was successful and that I could do anything. I went back to my primary school after finishing my degree, she was still working there, and we worked alongside each other for some time as colleagues! She is currently a principal and a strong advocate for public education. I've always admired her professionalism and hoped I could be as amazing as her.
Why do you teach?
It all comes down to learning. I want the students, staff and community I work with to be engaged, motivated and successful learners. Growing up and working in a context that has a high percentage of EAL/D (English as an Additional Language or Dialect) and refugee students and families, the privilege of being able to teach students how to read and write and assisting their families in supporting their children in doing so, truly is rewarding and invaluable. There is a saying that, "Every moment is a teaching moment," and I do truly believe that.
What's your stand out/most memorable teaching moment?
Remember my Year 3 teacher? Well, in 2009, I had a Year 4 class and my Year 3 teacher’s daughter was in my class. I remember at parent-teacher interviews, she looked at me straight in the eye and said, "I'm glad she's got you." This class was special to me for a lot of reasons. I can still pick up our class photo and tell you each student’s name, tell you about their personality and their strengths.
In this same class was another beautiful student. She would come along in the mornings and help me set up any displays, put the books on desks before the bell and just would be ready to learn. Well, I had my full circle moment when she got her first ever kindergarten class and I worked alongside her. She is doing wonderful things and is destined for even bigger things.
What is your advice for new teachers or people considering a career in teaching?
Passion: teaching requires a genuine passion for helping all students learn. Classroom management: this before all else! Develop strong classroom management skills. Clarity and consistency help create a positive learning environment where time spent on teaching and learning is maximised.
Build relationships: connect with your students and their families. Understanding their backgrounds, interests and challenges fosters a supportive and collaborative partnership.
Support network: seek mentorship and collaborate with colleagues. Experienced teachers can offer invaluable advice and support.
Self-care: teaching can be demanding. Ensure you take time for self-care to maintain your enthusiasm, energy and passion.
