Educators are the amongst the most important adults that young people will learn from in their formative years.
World Teachers’ Day 2022 will be celebrated across Australia on October 28. It is an opportunity to recognise and thank the educators who play a vital role in developing young people and helping them to evolve into important contributors to our communities.
Carinity Education Southside science teacher, Natalie Bolger, has “a love for learning” and is “passionate about inspiring others to become lifelong learners”.
“I strive to deliver engaging and inclusive lessons that embed real life skills for the future. My ambition is to improve the quality of teaching and learning on a wider scale,” Natalie said.
“I want to work toward reformation of the education system, to break down barriers to learning, and make the educational experience more relevant to the world in which our students are part of today.
“Carinity Education Southside is a school like no other I have experienced, with autonomy to really bring our curriculum and culture to life. The personal growth that can be seen in our students as they progress through their education at Southside is incredibly rewarding. I feel privileged to be a teacher at Southside.”
A visual art and learning support teacher at Carinity Education Southside, Belinda Culley believes she had an “innate calling” to become a teacher.
“From a very young age, I seemed to be instinctively drawn to the profession. As a child, I vividly remember role-playing being a teacher with my neighbours, friends and stuffed toys,” Belinda said.
“Throughout my own educational journey, I have seen how the educators in my life have influenced me, both positively and negatively, and how these interactions made a direct impact on how I viewed myself as a learner.”
Belinda felt compelled to nurture future learners and to “make learning a supportive and edifying experience”.
“Knowing that I can be instrumental in the lives of our students who have been marginalised due to a variety of reasons is a great privilege. Watching students learn to engage with curriculum and supporting their journey of growth is the most rewarding part of working at Carinity Education Southside,” she said.
“I’m so honoured to be a part of a caring and supportive team that can offer security and consistency to our vulnerable clientele. Our beautiful community thrives on unconditional positive regard and a genuine love which forms a strong foundation that equips our students to learn how to regulate their emotions, find confidence in their abilities and work towards the positive outcomes they so deserve.”
Acting Carinity CEO, David Angell, paid tribute to more than 170 teachers and support staff – including chaplains, youth workers, grounds and administration staff – who support around 600 students at Carinity Education schools.
“Every day, dedicated teachers at Carinity’s five schools across Queensland make a significant difference in the lives of young people by being a positive influence – and positive role models,” David said.
“Our teachers are also inspired by the young people they support and educate, learning about resilience and perseverance from students who have faced obstacles on their education journey.”