Staff Interview - Jen Lee

Interview with Jen Lee 

Year 2 teacher

How long have you worked at BNPS?

I have worked at BNPS since 2020. I started off working as a casual relief teacher, then taught Prep from 2021 until 2023. I have been teaching in Year 2 since 2024.

What inspired you to be a teacher?

Being a mum is what inspired me to become a teacher. I love watching my own children grow and develop. I also love helping them to become good people, and this has transferred beautifully to a job in education.

If you weren't a teacher, what career would have you pursued?

There are so many jobs out there, it is hard to know. I do have a degree in Architecture, and love building design, and all sorts of design, so perhaps something in that field.

What is your favourite thing to do on weekends?

I love waking up on the weekend, sitting with my family and having a special breakfast or just a cup of tea on the couch with them. When I can’t do that, it’s because of children’s early morning sports and activities, which I feel so lucky to get to watch and enjoy!

I also love seeing my parents, siblings, nieces and nephews and also Mr Lee’s parents too!

If you could go on a holiday anywhere in the World, where would you go? 

My favourite place in the world is home. I feel very lucky to live in beautiful Bayside. I do love holidays, but I like making sure my whole family can come along with me!

What is something that your students might be surprised to learn about you?

I lived in Belgium for 2 years when I was the same age as my Year 2 students! I went to a French speaking school and became fluent in French. I even used to sleep talk in French. Sadly, I can no longer speak French!

What recently made you smile?

My own children and my Year 2 students always make me smile!!

But, specifically, watching my 14-year-old daughter make some very cool jewellery using jewellery wire she got for her birthday made me smile yesterday.

I also recently got to see my niece perform in Mary Poppins and seeing her beaming face on stage at the end made me smile!

What would you like to say to the students at BNPS?

I am so proud of each and every one of you. Remember that you all have your own gifts, and we are all good at different things. Celebrate what you are good at but also make sure you work hard at the things you find tricky.

Most importantly, I think to be happy in life you need to learn to think of others, be empathetic and be a good person. There are so many little things every day which can make you smile. 

Also, be grateful for all you have. You are all so lucky to have wonderful friends and families who love you unconditionally. Give them all a big hug and tell them how lucky you feel to have them in your lives.