Sara

School Counsellor

What is your background?

I am originally from the USA but moved to Bali to teach English as a second language. In 2014, I came to Australia and fell in love with the Northern Rivers.Before teaching English, I worked as a counsellor for children and adults for over ten years.

What do you remember best about primary school?

I remember feeling really free to express myself and be who i wanted to be without judgement.

What teaching qualifications do you have?

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Education in School Counselling. I am  also a licensed educator in Massachusetts and a qualified English as a Second Language teacher.

Where else have you worked and how has it shaped your general outlook and your approach to teaching children today?

I worked as a group counsellor for kids in a hospital setting for a few years. I found it really challenging and rewarding to assess the needs of the group and try and provide counselling that was beneficial to everyone.

What are your main teaching and classroom philosophies?

I use the person-centred approach in counselling. I try to help students resolve their difficulties, realise their potential while helping them to improve their outlook. I try to promote self-esteem and help students recognise their strengths so that they can grow into self-actualised adults.

Why do you enjoy teaching at BCPS?

Being at such small school means that no child will fall through the cracks. It’s a great example of a “wrap-around” approach; parents, teachers and students all working together.

What do you enjoy teaching the most?

I enjoy counselling because I get to provide support during a critical time of life. The therapeutic relationship that develops can have an amazing impact on someone who is struggling.

What is your greatest achievement?

Taking a brave step and moving to Indonesia to teach. It was a good choice as I met my husband there and we came to Australia to live.

What aspirations still lie ahead of you?

I want to take my daughter travelling so that she is exposed to a variety of cultures and world history. I hope I can teach her tolerance, compassion and humility.

What occupies your time outside school hours?

When you have a 2 year old, everything revolves around them! We like taking our greyhound, Lola to the beach and letting her run.

If you weren’t a primary teacher, how do you think you’d be spending your days?

Trying to raise my daughter and spend as much time with her as I can before she grows up!