Connie Drossaert:

Learning Diversity and Wellbeing Leader

Hi Everyone, 

Welcome back to Holy Family for 2022. 

My name is Connie Drossaert, and I am the learning diversity and wellbeing leader at H.F. My job is varied, including working 1:1 with students within the intervention sphere to accessing different agencies and personnel to build up our support network for students. I assist staff in the area of wellbeing and support children to enhance their social and emotional capabilities. 

Helping students develop the capacity, resources, and skills to positively manage their feelings and emotions is rewarding. I first studied to be a journalist but decided after finishing my degree that I wanted to be a teacher. I have been teaching for about 30 years and am still excited about learning new things and implementing these at a school level. 

I live near the sea so feel invigorated by walking along the beach, swimming and snorkelling. I love reading and have been known to read the back of a cereal packet when my book is not handy. I have been learning flamenco for some time...always been a beginner and find great enjoyment in dancing (and wearing my beautiful flamenco shoes!)

I love working at Holy Family because it is a vibrant, diverse community. I enjoy the children's curiosity and creativity, and I admire their resilience as they learn more about themselves and their endless capabilities.  

This holiday snap is from the Van Gogh exhibition. I'm not sure what I was reaching out for, but the whole experience was captivating. This digital exhibition was an explosion of colour, movement, sound and smells. This experience will inspire me this year. I plan to open up the learning diversity/library space before school in the mornings for children to access the area and combine wellbeing activities with creativity. 

Do you know Van Gogh only sold one painting during his lifetime, but this didn't stop him from doing what he loved? For the children at H. F. this year,  I hope that you have an open heart and mind when you face challenges and keep persevering.

Enjoy the year ahead!