Context of my teaching
Taking up the responsibility of being a Primary School Teacher marks another chapter in my life. However it is certainly not independent. I am fortunate to have performed an assortment of roles, which have all provided invaluable experiences and collaboratively support my new endeavour.
After earning my Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Management and Psychology, and completing an Associate Diploma in Business, I worked for over ten years for a large corporation in an array of Sales and Marketing roles. This laid the foundation for my strong work ethic, ideals such as continuous self-improvement, and respect for colleagues.
After having my first son, my focus was redirected. I set up my own Personal Training fitness business and commenced delivering soccer programs to preschoolers, coaching ten indoor classes a week with approximately twelve 3-5 year olds in each class. The role included content planning and delivery, time management, face to face and electronic communications with parents. I also performed outdoor programs for preschools, with classes of up to 20 children, collaborating with, and assisted by their regular educators.
I quickly realised every child was different! My learning about and learning with children had begun.
From day one of my son attending Primary school, I was drawn towards volunteering, being active as; class parent, reading and maths group assistant, athletics carnival time keeper, helper in the canteen, on BBQ duties, supporter of fundraiser events, Science Club lab assistant, and the 2017 Art Exhibition Coordinator, for the schools bi-annual fete.
In 2015 I became involved with Primary Ethics, taking up the volunteer position of Regional Manager for the Woronora River Region, liaising with Principals commencing Ethics at their school, communicating with school coordinators and reporting to Primary Ethics Management. For the past three years I have also been an Ethics Teacher for Kareela Public School, spending time with students from Early Stage 1 through to Stage 3. A proud moment was when I received a NSW Volunteer of the Year Award from Primary Ethics.
Over the years (my eldest son is now in Year 8, and I have another son in Year 2), my enthusiasm and motivation to help children enjoy their life at school has continually grown, making me realise that my future was in the classroom, teaching.
The days spent in the classroom whilst volunteering and on my professional placements have certainly been exciting, and I look forward to now embarking on my next journey. Please enjoy the moments I share in my portfolio, which illustrate my developing understandings as a professional educator.