Staff in the Spotlight

Sub School Staff in the Spotlight 

Throughout term 2 and 3 we will be spotlighting our Middle and Senior Sub School Teams giving our school community the opportunity to find out more about who they are, why they became a teacher/leader and what they love most about their jobs!

This week we are spotlighting Nicholas Elliot. 

Aside from his Humanities and Art teaching, Nick is a Year 8 Year Level Leader and is our Marrung Lead supporting our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Nick is a valued member of our Middle School team and is passionate about working with young people.

How long have you been teaching?

This is my 3rd year teaching.

What is your role in Sub School?

Year 8 Year Level Leader

Why did you decide to become a teacher and/or leader?

For me, the choice to become a teacher was about connection, empowerment and the intention to hopefully create change in this world via the students I teach. I try to lead through a similar lens. Fostering connection and empowerment within my colleagues to work empathetically, objectively and with the goal to never stop learning. 

What is the best thing about teaching and/or working in the sub-school team?

EASY - (possibly bias) The Middle School team is truly an amazing environment to work in. The diversity within the team encourages creativity, respect and understanding. We push and support one another to do our best. We all communicate and work so hard for the sub-school and our classes. I can't speak highly enough of this team's collaborative skills and respect for one and other. 

What has been one of your best teaching moments?

My best teaching moment so far would be seeing how my Year 11 modern history students responded to my AOS on Racial Segregation. Their responses demonstrated empathy for systemically marginalised groups and knowledge for how their actions can enact change. This made me so hopeful, as learning from experiences of others that might not look like you is how we can change this world for the better.

What are three things your colleagues and/or your students would say about you?

"Your outfits are such a slay!" "People say that your really nice and a good teacher" 

What is your idea of a perfect weekend?

I would have to say, if I could, I would spend the weekend at the beach recharging in the sun! I love the water, so being able to surf or dive brings me joy. During my time at the beach I would also spend time with those closest to me sharing some amazing food. All of that, would really make it a perfect weekend. 

If you could invite 5 people to a dinner party, who would you invite and why?

I would invite Lady Gaga for her intelligence, creativity and ability to tell a phenomenal story. Beyonce for her creativity, stories and astounding ability to uplift marginalised groups. Laverne Cox for the way she articulates herself and stands up for what she believes in. Alok Menon for their knowledge and for being unapologetically themselves. Kane Jackson, as I would want to share this experience with someone I see everyday, and could reminisce on all of the stories that were told. I believe this group of diverse, intelligent people have the traits for a hilarious, thought-provoking and fantastic dinner party. 

What is the one piece of 'advice' or the one thing that you always say to your students?

Advice I always give is, "Be kind and consider the people around you. You don't know their story and a kind gesture might be exactly what they need."