My interest in teaching was sparked in high school where three teachers encouraged me to pursue my love of mathematical methods and specialist. Their kind and engaging teaching approach made me want to be just like them.
I moved to Brisbane in January 2018 where I initially studied at another university for two years, before transferring to QUT to complete a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) for another three years. I decided to complete my studies at QUT as I wanted to gain more hands-on experiences in my degree.
One of the highlights of my student experience at QUT was seeing the diversity of schools on my practicums. QUT equipped me with the teaching tools to effectively teach students from a wide range of backgrounds and cognitive abilities.
During my degree I had the opportunity to develop industry contacts and gain teaching experience through the St Laurence’s College Fellowship Program. I taught at SLC for a whole term on my final practicum and developed strong collegial relationships with the staff.
This opportunity developed my skills as an Early Career Teacher and gave me the opportunity to plan, teach and reflect on my practices for 10 weeks. During this time, I had two teaching mentors who provided me with guidance and support as I navigated the challenges of being a teacher in a 21st century classroom.
At the beginning of the program, we were given a week to observe the classes we were going to teach at St Laurence’s College. This was a great opportunity to learn different teaching strategies before I stepped into the classroom to teach students and mark assessments. I was also able to immerse myself in the school community by taking part in PD sessions and lead extracurricular activities.
Some highlights include:
- Meeting with the deputy principal every Monday morning with another member of staff to discuss topics such as boys’ education, behaviour management, implementing NCCD adjustments, Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) and more!
- Attending staff meetings every Monday afternoon where we were encouraged to contribute or ask as many questions as we liked.
- Coordinating the Laurie’s Colours Cup Tennis Tournament every Saturday morning where I built a strong student-teacher relationship with students and developed my confidence in communicating with care givers.
- Attending the year 12 retreat where I assisted in mentoring students, daily activities, and managing small groups for discussions.
Taking part in this fellowship program has been an invaluable experience where I am now confident to use and implement the pedagogical and behavioural management skills I have learnt in the classroom.
One of my goals at the beginning of my degree was to teach in boys’ education, and I am excited to say that I have accepted a permanent teaching position at Ambrose Treacy College in 2023.
