The Teacher Feature

Our brilliant teachers are supported by an equally brilliant team of support staff. From managing finances, to providing therapy through art, we have a team of staff who work diligently behind the scenes to make sure we get the best outcomes for parents teachers and students.

Sue Klein

Role: Business Manager 

What do you love about your role as Business Manager at BBPS?

I’m a very competitive person, so I take great pride in keeping things running smoothly. I love seeing reports that balance, budgets that work, facilities that are functioning well, and being able to answer staff and parent questions with confidence.

One of the things I enjoy most about my role is that no two days are ever the same. I might start the morning with a carefully planned to-do list, but there's no telling what the day will bring. From unblocking toilets and coordinating tradies to helping with first aid, every day comes with a new challenge.

My favourite part of the job, though, is hearing the wonderful stories our students share [sometimes too much sharing]. One student came to first aid and told us that whenever he was sick, he got his favourite dinner. He was very excited because that night’s special meal was going to be... wagu bresola! I had to look that one up. So, parents, be warned... we hear everything! 😊It is so funny hearing students versions of what their parents do for a living.

Working in a school means being part of a community, and it's the people, the unpredictability, and the daily moments of laughter with parents, students and my co-workers that make the role so rewarding.

 What do you enjoy doing when you're not at school?

Planning my next holiday. Japan here we come!

Benita Danckert

Role: Receptionist, Problem-Solver, Joke Teller, Announcer, Assistant Business Manager, Administration Manager, Office Manager, Accounts Payable, Website Manager, Hummus Enthusiast, Fashion Icon.

What is your favourite memory from your own school days?

One of my many favourite memories from school was definitely cooking class. It was the one lesson where everyone was excited to be there, even if we were supposed to be following a recipe. Somehow our group always managed to get distracted—usually because someone was making us laugh—and we'd end up forgetting an ingredient or setting the timer late.

We were a little bit naughty too. We'd 'taste test' way more chocolate chips than the recipe actually required, argue over who got to lick the bowl, and occasionally swap ingredients with our friends just to see if they'd notice. Thankfully nothing too disastrous ever happened!

What is something that has made you laugh this week?

The funniest part is that not much has changed. Even now, I still manage to burn toast, overcook pasta, or set off the smoke alarm every now and then. My family knows that if I'm cooking, there's a good chance something will end up slightly crispy. At least I've learned that keeping an eye on the oven is just as important as following the recipe!

Gilly Jedwab 

Role: Education Support and Art Therapy

Describe what you do in an Art Therapy session each week.

During art therapy sessions we use art as a tool to assist processing thoughts and feelings and to foster self discovery,  and skill development through creative processes and reflections.

How do you support students at different levels to all experience success?

Each student is encouraged to express themselves in their own unique way and gain confidence in communicating their ideas and feelings.

Amika Linstrom

Role: Education Support

How do you build strong relationships with students at BBPS?

Building strong relationships starts with getting to know each student as an individual. I enjoy asking children about their interests, hobbies and what they've been up to on the weekends. However I think the most important part is remembering what they tell you and following up on it later. Something as simple as asking how their football game went or remembering where they went on the holidays shows students that you genuinely care. I also make sure I'm approachable, positive and consistent so every child feels safe, valued and supported.

What excites you about your role as an educator?

What excites me most is seeing the growth in students over the course of the year. It's so rewarding to watch children achieve things by the end of the year that they couldn't do at the beginning, whether that's academically, socially or in their overall confidence. I also love being part of the school community and building positive relationships with students, staff and families. Knowing that I can play a small part in each child's learning journey is what makes the role so enjoyable.