What inspired you to become a teacher?
Ever since I started school, I quickly realised the importance of quality teachers. From year to year I would move to and from new teachers, however there were always those select few whose class I hoped to land in after the 6-week break. These teachers weren't just teachers from 8:30-3pm, they became lifelong mentors, role models and friends. I benefitted from some amazing teachers throughout my schooling life and knew I wanted to be a teacher, one who could hopefully become that role model, friend and mentor for young people the way my teachers had all those years before. It’s exciting to know that a future astronaut, prime-minister, Olympian or teacher could be in my class. To me, being a teacher is about helping students realise what they want to be and who they want to become, and hopefully one day they can look back and thank 'Mr Bradbury' for assisting them on their journey.
What are you looking forward to most this year?
With a new year comes a new school, new students and new challenges. I'm excited to meet my students, my fellow staff and become a part of the Belconnen High School Community. I'm most excited about the swimming carnival of course, free sausage sizzle, how good is that! In all seriousness though, I can’t wait to have my own classes of bright-eyed students, who can walk into my classroom knowing that they're in a safe space where they can be themselves, be respected and enjoy being young. In this day and age, it’s obvious to me there is more to school than tests and grades. It’s about helping our kids smile, make connections to the world around them, cultivate relationships with friends and teachers, and equipping them with skills to survive in an ever-changing world. I'm excited to help students on this journey in 2020, as well as the sausage sizzle - can't forget that.
What do you think your greatest challenge is going to be?
Just finding my way around the school! Every day I ask year 10's to point me in the right direction, but as weeks go on, I'm confident I’ll figure out my way around. The facilities here at Belconnen High School are brand new; it’s really delightful to be able to rock up to work each day to such an appealing and fresh environment.
You’ve just finished up your first week of teaching, how did it go? Did it live up to your expectations?
I've had a great week so far. All the staff and students here are supportive and excited about the upcoming school year. Students are diving into learning straight away, transitioning well into a new school year with optimism and enthusiasm. There is a really good culture here at Belconnen High School. Staff and students are proud of their uniform and school, it’s a great place to be and I'm excited about the weeks to come as I develop stronger relationships with my staff and students.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
"Teaching kids to count is fine, teaching kids what counts is best"