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Staff Spotlight

Leila Waters

About Me

Hello and welcome! My name is Leila and I have been a teacher at Meadows Primary School for many, many years! My hobbies include listening to music, reading and spending time with family and friends. I love learning and have spent many years developing units of work and assessment tasks with the IDEAS Digital Education Institute under the guidance of Dr Varady to assist with teaching students in African countries. I was also honoured to be nominated for Hume Teacher of the Year, a recognition I was deeply grateful to receive from a family that is still at Meadows Primary School.

 

 

Teaching Philosophy

I believe education is about nurturing lifelong learners who are curious, resilient, and confident in their ability to grow. My role as a teacher is not only to teach curriculum content but to develop students who love learning and understand that learning continues far beyond the classroom.

 

At the centre of my teaching philosophy is a strong commitment to developing a love of reading. Reading is the foundation of all learning; it builds knowledge, imagination, empathy, and critical thinking. I prioritise daily reading experiences because consistent exposure to books allows students to see themselves as readers and thinkers. 

 

I strive to create a calm, safe, and predictable classroom environment where students feel secure enough to take learning risks. A peaceful classroom supports concentration, emotional regulation, and positive relationships. Clear routines, respectful communication, and consistent expectations help students understand that the classroom is a place for focused learning and mutual respect.

 

I hold high expectations for all students because I believe every child is capable of success. High expectations communicate belief in students’ abilities and encourage them to challenge themselves academically and socially. I am strict but fair—students know the boundaries, understand the reasons behind expectations, and experience consistency in how they are supported and guided. Fairness builds trust, and trust creates an environment where learning thrives.

 

Developing resilience is another key priority in my teaching practice. I encourage students to view mistakes as opportunities for growth and to persevere when learning becomes challenging. By modelling a growth mindset, providing constructive feedback, and celebrating effort as well as achievement, I support students in building confidence, independence, and persistence.

 

Ultimately, I aim to foster a classroom community where students feel calm, supported, challenged, and inspired.  I hope to equip students with the skills, habits, and mindset needed to become successful learners not only at school but throughout their lives.

 

 

Education

Fun fact about me, I went to Glenroy College!

Bachelor of Education 

Bastow Institute:

Create - Middle Leaders Program

Inspire – Emerging Leaders Program

Create – Teacher Leadership Program

Impact – Emerging Local Leaders 

 

 

 

Contact Me

  • ClassDojo for quick updates and classroom communication.
  • Compass for important school messages and announcements.
  • In person, before or after school by arrangement.