An Interview with Fiona O'Reilly

Fiona O'Reilly

What is your favourite food?

I absolutely could not narrow it down to just one! I’m pretty happy to try just about anything.

What inspired you to work in education?

I’ve always loved teaching. When I was six my mum had to ask me to give my little sister a break from the school I had set up in the back yard. I grew up being encouraged to ask questions and helped to find answers which consolidated my love for learning. I have strong moral and philosophical beliefs about the need for free and equitable access to education as part of creating strong and ethical communities. I didn’t immediately enter a teaching degree after completing my secondary education; however I think all the previously mentioned factors meant that it was inevitable that I would end up working in education… and I love it! Across my career I have remained engaged in developing my capacity to ensure my skill set expands and aligns with the increased understanding that neuroscience has given us. I genuinely enjoy the journeys of discovery that happen in the classroom and the ways that the students bring curiosity, bravery, and joy into learning every day. 

Do you have a standout memory from your time at primary school?

When I was in Year Three my teacher went on long service leave and was replaced by a substitute from the city. Mr Z was a teacher ahead of his time. He set us up with a space-based project that promoted inquiry and creativity. It was structured in such a way that every student was able to engage meaningfully and stretch themselves as far as they wanted to. He was great at establishing a learning space where we felt safe, supported, valued, and important. He asked questions about our work that challenged my thinking and gave us choice for how to present our final project. Towards the end of his stay Mum said I was allowed to invite him to come to dinner. I still remember seeing his forest green MG convertible making its way down our driveway and feeling relieved that he hadn’t got lost on the drive out to the farm. We had roast lamb for dinner and golden syrup dumplings for dessert. I remember being so happy with the conversation because I could see that Mum and Dad were enjoying his company and could see he was as wonderful as I thought he was. He gave me a lovely thank you card the next day that I have kept in my treasure box as a reminder that you can bring excitement for learning with you wherever you go, your words can have a lasting impact on others, and to use whatever time you have in a place to make a positive difference. Mr Z made me feel empowered as a learner.

Is there anything you do regularly to promote mental and physical wellbeing?

Connect with nature. I grew up on a farm and love to go back for the recharge it gives. A good walk out in the fresh air where you can see for miles does wonders for the soul. The farm is also a great place for some star gazing. Problems and worries seem to shrink significantly when you can see the galaxy laid out in front of you. I also love to get my shoes off and stroll along the beach. The feel of sand between your toes, the sea breeze on your face, and the sound of rushing water helps me to reset.

What is your favourite movie and why?

For grown-ups: I love the movie About Time. A man discovers a family legacy of being able to travel through time and relive moments. I love the movie because of the beautiful exploration of the relationships we have as children, siblings, partners, and parents. I also love that it leaves you with a message to enjoy your days as they happen, to take note of the small moments of joy as well as the magnificent moments, and to choose to be the best person that you can in each moment while also understanding that we are human and will make mistakes.

For children: The remake of Cinderella from 2015. The messaging to be kind and courageous is a wonderful reminder for us all, and I love a little sprinkle of magic in my days!

Read the book or watch the movie?

Both, but always the book first.

What is your favourite type of music?

I like to listen to a variety but if I could only have one favourite then… pop, pop, and some more pop! Give me an uplifting beat and I promise to groove my way around while singing, most probably with the wrong lyrics!

Have you ever been given some advice that changed your life?

Listen to understand, not to respond.

What are you most proud of?

My amazing children. They are brave and strong, kind and clever, resilient and beautiful little humans that keep me on my toes with their inquisitive natures and quirky humour. I absolutely adore them, am so proud of their achievements and love the way they are moving through life. I am one very lucky mother!

What are you enjoying most about your role at ENPS so far?

So many things! I’ve really loved exploring the school values and learner attributes as these align so closely with my own views and philosophies about life. I enjoy working with the Year Two team and learning from them - the amount of enthusiasm, kindness and knowledge in the team is wildly impressive. I’m also really enjoying 2FO (yes it does sound like UFO!) and their great personalities and curious minds. It’s a joy coming to work each day.