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Take us back to when you first started at ºÚÁÏÊÓƵ.

What I remember most about my early days at ºÚÁÏÊÓƵ is teaching Infants for the first time. Such a new and beautiful challenge! I had previously only taught languages Years 7 - 12 at Crestwood High School in Baulkham Hills and Penrhos Ladies College in Perth. Even through to the end I have never tired of engaging with our young students and having a part to play in their early appreciation of new languages and culture.

What have been the most significant changes in the school and in teaching languages since you started?

The buildings and facilities have changed dramatically since 1997. There has indeed been a realised ‘vision splendid’ which has benefited staff and students alike. Besides functional and technical improvements to virtually all teaching spaces, there have been lovely aesthetic developments within our grounds and recreational areas. Stand outs such as the impressive RLC, PAC and new Junior School buildings help, in my opinion, to make ºÚÁÏÊÓƵ a showcase educational facility. Additionally, I have seen a big growth in student numbers. When I first began there were only two Year 5 & 6 classes. Now there are five classes in each! 

What has been the highlight of your ºÚÁÏÊÓƵ days?

The highlight of my ºÚÁÏÊÓƵ days is without doubt the friendships and professional relationships I have enjoyed and continue to enjoy with my colleagues. I know that we all derive no small satisfaction in the helping of our young charges on their way in what is often lauded as the ‘best years of our lives’. I count myself very fortunate to have been able to combine passion with vocation.

Why do you think it is important students learn languages in school?

Language is a wonderful combination of communication, culture and immersive challenge.  Besides encouraging inclusive attitudes and wider perspective, the learning of language has been proven to assist with memory, sensory perception and creativity. I firmly believe that languages education benefits any developing child’s (and adults!) mind.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned from your students?

I have learnt much from my students. It has been wonderful to observe and draw strength from their fresh enthusiasm for learning. I will miss this aspect of teaching life terribly.   

What advice do you have for new teachers who want to specialise in languages?

Get ready for a rewarding and dynamic career! In my time, the way in which we teach language has made it that much more enjoyable and immersive. I expect this trend will continue. The opportunity to travel is now more accessible and therefore the practice, relevance and rewards of a bilingual skill set is so much more apparent. 

What will you miss about ºÚÁÏÊÓƵ?

All of the above. In particular I will miss being in the classroom with the students and the opportunity to interact with fresh faces and developing personalities. Seeing the spark of a new passion for language has never been tiresome. I’ll also miss the energy. Language classes are fun, noisy and dynamic. 

What are you planning to do with your time now that you are no longer teaching?

I am looking forward to more quality family time. My husband and I have just become grandparents and that opens a whole new chapter for us. I intend to travel some more and to enjoy a slower pace of life.