How well do you
know our staff?
This week we learn a little about Jenny Todd
Jenny Todd
How long have you been teaching/working in schools?
After gaining my teaching qualification as a 21 year old, I taught at St Anthony’s Primary in Noble Park. I worked there for 9 years as a classroom teacher, teaching from Year 2 to Year 6 and was the School Curriculum Leader for two years. At the same time, I underwent further study at Monash University in the areas of Physical Education, Science and Technology and Art. After having my first two children, we moved down to the Peninsula in 1999 and I applied for the role of Physical Education Specialist and Sports Coordinator at St Joseph’s. I have worked here for 23 years and have even taught some of my students’ parents!!! In 2018, I completed my Master of Education (Student Wellbeing). My belief that Student Wellbeing forms the foundation of all learning, prompted me to take on one of Student Wellbeing Leader roles from 2020 to the present day; working in partnership with Lisa Inglese, as a part of the Student Wellbeing Team.
Current roles and responsibilities?
In addition to my Student Wellbeing role, I have once again returned to the classroom after many years in PE and Sport. This year I am working with the 5/6 students in the Senior Hub as a Classroom Teacher. I believe it is healthy to move out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself through continuous learning. Classroom teaching has certainly changed over the years, particularly with the move towards more contemporary, flexible open learning and I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I especially love teaching Maths, SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) and, of course, teaching 5/ 6 Sport sessions and getting to attend Interschool Sports Days.
What do you love about working at St Joseph’s?
In my 23 years as a teacher at St Joseph’s, I have always been warmly embraced by the school community and have been blessed with great support in my roles. I love the opportunity to try to make a difference in the lives of each of our students and have always been encouraged to work hard to try to identify and develop their individual strengths and capabilities. The professional culture of the school of going above and beyond, in all aspects of the education we offer, and the supportive environment offered at St Joseph’s is highly motivating. I love that the differences between students are celebrated and that the needs of each child are well-catered for through our flexible spaces and contemporary programs, interventions and adjustments.
Interests/passions outside of school?
I have coached and played a multitude of different sports; AFL football, basketball and netball, swimming and gymnastics. My favourite sport to play is basketball, which I play twice a week. I’m currently training to compete in my 6th Pan Pacific Masters Games at the Gold Coast in November; hoping to bring back the gold medal with my team. I love spending time with my family, going to the footy and eating out at restaurants or having coffee catch ups with friends. I also love to travel, especially to warm tropical beach settings around Australia and overseas!
Family
My husband, Leigh, and I have been married for 32 years and have had three children, all of whom were educated at St Joseph’s. Michaela (aged 26), is now a primary teacher, Maddie (who sadly passed away at age 14) and Keilan (aged 20 who is studying Business). We also have two Maltese shih tzu dogs, who are both nearly 18 years old, called Bobby and Nike. Our family have all been very active in our local sporting community and feel so lucky to be living here, in such a wonderful place as the Peninsula!