Sarah

LEARNING SUPPORT & DOLPHINS TEACHER

What is your background?

I am from Sydney and moved to Byron with my partner in 2012. I began my studies at Macquarie Uni and then happily transferred to Southern Cross Uni in Lismore where I completed my teaching degree. Before I even thought about becoming a teacher I studied and worked in various fields, including massage therapy, animal studies and vet nursing, and photography. I really like to learn!

What do you remember best about primary school?

My best memories of primary school are all centred around connection and relationships. I can recall my Kindy classroom and experience so clearly as it was such a fun and nurturing time. I have the same friends today that I have had since Kindergarten. In Year 6 I had a teacher who supported me and set me up for high school. He allowed us to do heaps of hands on, real life activities such as organising a business day with the aim of raising money for a charity. Our business sold soft drinks and ice cream and it is no surprise that our business made the greatest profit!

What teaching qualifications do you have?

Bachelor of Education (Primary)

Currently studying Graduate Certificate in Education (Inclusive Education) at QUT

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

Before studying teaching, I worked in a Before and After School Care Centre with some kids from low socio-economic backgrounds. It was a real eye opener for me as to the human potential and what people can create for themselves when they have a goal and are supported correctly.

I have also worked in Special Education with students who have highly diverse learning needs. This experience showed me how important it is to understand every student’s background, their strengths and the importance of connection and relationship to help students reach their potential. I thoroughly enjoy learning support work and teaching students with diverse learning needs.

What are your main teaching and classroom philosophies?

The classroom is always evolving and it’s difficult to say that there is one particular classroom philosophy I like to follow. Here are some words and statements that I endeavour to always bring to the classroom.

  • To embody a love of learning

  • To create a sense of empowerment through education

  • To value creativity, diversity, collaboration, mindfulness, fun and high expectations

  • To create a class environment where students feel safe, nurtured, free to express themselves and take responsibility, show empathy, connect with others and explore their potential

  • A classroom where there is a sense of calm, laughter, sharing, inquisitiveness, music, and acceptance

Why do you enjoy teaching at BCPS?

Teaching at BCPS is something I will never take for granted! I enjoy being a part of this school community so much because the school looks at everything from a different perspective. It is as if a we look through a lens of innovation and creativity when we navigate the decisions, challenges and goals of the school.

I love working with every staff member and have had the privilege of working in all the different classrooms.

The relationships with families and the wider community is really rewarding but most of all the relationships with our students is like nothing I have seen or felt before. We are constantly encouraged to follow our ideas and model this to the students as well.

What do you enjoy teaching the most?

Tough question! I love teaching Science as I see it as an umbrella to all the other subjects. It fosters creativity, risk taking and helps everyone see the world in such an inquisitive way. Plus it is a lot of fun!

What is your greatest achievement?

So far, working at BCPS.

What aspirations still lie ahead of you?

 Becoming a bee keeper, owning a home and starting a family (one day)!!!

What occupies your time outside school hours?

 I make and sell beeswax candles, I tutor students who need extra support. I also love surfing and camping and crafty projects.

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

Keeping bees and, maybe I would be a herbalist for kids! I would also be travelling around the world.