Early last week, we celebrated World Teachers' Day, with this year's theme being “Hats Off to Teachers.” Coincidentally on that day, we welcomed four students from the Australian Catholic University to St MM’s for their placement as they study to become primary school teachers. This occasion prompted me to reflect on my own journey through university and my career progression since graduating.

I didn’t always know I wanted to be a teacher; in fact, the profession found me a few years after I finished high school. Looking back, I am truly grateful it did. Teaching has imparted invaluable lessons (excuse the pun) throughout my career. I’ve had the privilege of educating many children, I have encountered people from all walks of life and collaborated with some of the best educators in the field.

I remember a lecture at university where one of my professors said, “Teaching isn’t just a job; it’s a vocation.” At the time, I didn’t fully grasp the depth of that statement. Now, I understand it completely - teaching is a calling. You have to love it. Without that passion, it’s hard to endure the challenges that come with the job. It’s not a job for the faint-hearted — it requires dedication, resilience, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of students.

As we take our hats off to all educators, I asked our own teachers to share their story with you and what called them to the vocation that is teaching....

Danielle Frost	I wasn’t 100% sure what I wanted to do when I finished school. I had a part time job at the UNSW coaching sport and I ended up loving it. My mum was constantly in my ear about being a primary school teacher so I phoned my old primary school and asked if I could do some volunteer work to see if I liked it and the rest is history…
Laura Courtenay	I changed schools in Primary school and had an amazing Year 4 teacher. Her enthusiasm for teaching and making me feel welcomed and included and was the reason I wanted to teach and help students feel the same. It was always going to be animals or children!
Danielle McClure	I always knew from a young age that I wanted to be working with children when I was older - either as a teacher or a nurse. I did work experience in both areas, but quickly realised teaching was my passion. And I have never looked back!
Bella Abruzzese	Having been inspired by others as a child, I recognised how important it was in shaping who I have become today. I knew I wanted to share that gift of inspiration with children and hope that I could inspire them in a way that would allow them to spread motivation and positivity in everything they do!
Diane Breen	I never ever wanted to be anything else. Even though I do not have happy school memories myself, I hoped I would be able to help children not only learn but have fun along the way. I wanted to help make school a positive experience for them!
Peter Mallos	I used to work as a bank teller and loans officer, staring at numbers on a screen all day. It was dull and lifeless! One day, I decided to quit the bank and follow my dreams. Now, every day at St Margaret Mary's is an exciting journey of fun and learning. I love walking in every morning and seeing all the kids engaging in dynamic and challenging activities, for me teaching is a true pleasure!
Kylie O’Donnell	I loved school, particularly primary school. I attended a small rural state school and I remember always feeling like I could do anything. My teachers often relied on me to help other students and I realised at a really young age I was actually very good at breaking down complicated tasks and explaining things to others in a way they could understand. Originally I started a psychology degree but it didn’t take long to realise I was way better suited to teaching. I changed degrees after my first year at university and never looked back.
Julie Traylen	I think the first time the idea of becoming a teacher came to me was at about age 17 when I gave horse riding lessons to some local kids in Kiama, where I grew up. I loved horses & also loved working with children. I originally wanted to have a career working with horses, however I went for teaching instead. So pleased I did, I love it!!!
Anna Kelly	I loved primary school, and I always thought I wanted to come back and be a teacher when I left school. In high school I explored other options, having a crisis that maybe teaching was a 'boring’ option. I spoke with my aunt, who is a Primary School Teacher, who explained that teaching is the furthest thing from being boring. It is a career that encompassess so many other roles. Teachers are nurses, counsellors, cheerleaders, detectives and librarians along with being educators. She told me that everyday is different and brings with it different challenges and rewards. She was right, and I am very happy that I had that conversation!
Fiona Brookes	I didn’t initially set out to become a teacher; instead, I studied Business and Sports Management at university. After that, I was living and working in London and found myself teaching sport at an American international school. I loved the variety each day brought, working with students, and the collegiality among other teachers. Two years later, I returned to complete a postgraduate degree and have never looked back. I love the energy that children bring each day, challenging and engaging students in their learning, and the wonderful teachers I have the pleasure of working with.
Eva Clinton	I wanted to be a primary school teacher from a very young age. My favourite game as a child was 'school,' where I set up my dolls and teddies as my little class while I read them stories and taught them lessons. I loved going to school and enjoyed each subject equally. I was inspired by my many wonderful teachers to bring a sense of warmth and excitement into a classroom of my own.
Jacqui Pribilovics	I wanted to become a teacher because I’ve always felt a strong calling to work in an area of service, particularly with children. Originally I wanted to become a paediatric nurse. Through my work experience in a hospital I experienced firsthand the impact that education and support can have on a child’s development and well-being. This led me to transition into teaching. As a teacher, I try to create a nurturing environment that not only imparts knowledge but also inspires and empowers students to reach their full potential, helping them navigate both academic challenges and personal growth.
Harvey Simpson	My mum was a teacher and I would always listen to the stories she would tell me about what happened in her school. I loved learning new things and retelling information to others that I had learned that day. I always loved sport and thought a career in that direction was what I wanted. A passion for sport coupled with teaching seemed like the perfect job!
Aoife Geraghty	I will always remember my Year 3 teacher from primary school. She brought so much joy and laughter to the classroom, and her kindness and fairness made every student feel valued and supported. When I realised I wanted to become a teacher, she became who I aspired to be like. Teaching allows you to wear many different hats, and no two days are ever the same. The variety and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in students’ lives were the main reasons I became a primary school teacher!

Promotions

Padel Tennis

Handball Comp