Teacher

Job Title: Teacher

Location: Wakehurt Primary School

Approval to teach K-6, with demonstrated capacity to design and deliver innovative quality differentiated teaching and learning programs that cater for the needs of 21st Century learners.

My success as a classroom teacher validates my ability to teach any grade (K-6) in a wide range of educational settings, delivering exceptional student progress and outcomes. I value innovation, creativity and the knowledge and assimilation of up-to-date teaching practices that cater for the needs of 21^st Century learners and their integration into a global, ever-evolving society and potentially unfamiliar future.

Experiences to support this criterion:

• As a classroom teacher I have developed effective learning programs targeting students with a wide range of abilities and skills, resulting in significant improvements from pre- to post-test scores in the areas of literacy and numeracy and substantial gains in knowledge and competencies across all Key Learning Areas (KLAs). Developing meaningful learning for all students by executing lessons based on student’s prior knowledge, skills and abilities is a high priority, and my consideration of each student’s background knowledge has resulted in specifically tailored approaches to content taught, resulting in improved student engagement and learning outcomes.
• I have successfully taught Stages 2 and 3 through my temporary placement with Wakehurst Public School over the past four years, as well as gaining experience teaching all Stages at a diverse range of schools during my practicum tenure as part of my Bachelor of Arts with the Diploma of Education (BADipEd) I consistently receive tremendously positive feedback from parents and children in relation to my approach to their academic and social development, including exposure to real-world scenarios and considerations, with students also giving positive feedback on their enhanced understanding of concepts taught and knowledge gained.
• I am categorically committed to continual development of my professional skills, abilities and familiarity with up-to-date teaching practices, as is evident in my attendance at numerous and varied conferences and workshops with such foci as Information and Communication Technology, Debating, Gifted and Talented Students, English literacy and Mathematics (especially numeracy) and Nutrition and Physical Activity, all of which have resulted in implementation of enhanced teaching and evaluation practices in my classroom.
• My teaching and programming is based on the NSW Quality Teaching Framework, which clearly articulates the link between curriculum, assessment, pedagogy and student welfare. My ability to design and deliver innovative, quality differentiated teaching and learning programs that cater for the needs of 21^st Century learners is demonstrated through:
  • Providing an environment centred on student learning by utilising a wide variety of teaching and learning experiences with appropriate resources to guarantee the different learning styles and abilities of students are catered for, enabling enhanced results.
  • Utilising my understanding of the ‘Teaching & Learning Cycle’ to ensure that all class programs are driven by student achievement, continuously assessing student learning and using this information to explicitly and systematically review and revise my teaching practice. Through constant reflection I ensure that I utilise best teaching practice at all times and that student needs are always being addressed.
  • Establishing explicit and systematic learning experiences that promote higher order thinking and problem solving skills, resulting in lifelong learners with advanced student learning outcomes. This has involved many real life demonstrations and experiments so students have a hands-on experience and increased understanding of what they are learning.
  • Taking the time to understand new technologies and using them in a way that is relevant to students and prepares them for the challenges of the 21^st I do this by undertaking regular personal development courses in my own time and attending courses provided by the school, and maintaining my conviction that I am preparing my students for employment options, a workforce and a society that may be currently unimaginable or unknown.

What I offer Wakehurst Public School:

• Thorough understanding of outcomes and indicators underpinning previous, current and (available) future syllabus documents, as well as an awareness and personal belief that it is my professional responsibility to ensure engaging, relevant and challenging learning experiences catered to all students.
• Experience and continued commitment to student improvement of academic results and social development, with a desire to evaluate existing practices and facilitate change or improvement where needed or beneficial.
• Superior commitment to advancing Wakehurst Public School’s community profile, internal and external programs.
• An aptitude for incorporating innovation and creativity in education to address the needs of all learners, ensuring engagement by all in the teaching and learning process.

Willingness and capacity to undertake the role of computer coordinator and ability to integrate a range of engaging, effective technology practices into the classroom.

My own belief that students will increasingly need to be self-directed, ever-advancing learners in a tech-savvy society, as well as my approach and experience as a classroom teacher demonstrates that I am well qualified to effectively integrate innovative technology across all curriculum areas, as well as coordinate and facilitate relevant technology programs across the school.

Experiences to support this criterion:

• For the past three years I have facilitated the use of the DEC’s Connected Classrooms videoconferencing technology, which engages students in discussion and other interactive enterprises with people and students outside of Wakehurst PS. During my first year at Wakehurst PS, I assisted the previous Computer Coordinator and have since guided and supported other teachers with computer and associated technology to enrich learning experiences and achieve excellent results using technology in their classrooms. I have consistently provided advice and technical support regarding hardware and software within the school, aiding colleagues in determining and logging technology issues with the Department’s IT Support unit. This has enhanced my own understanding of Department-specific procedures and provided me with further skills and knowledge of aspects of the Computer Coordinator role.
• I possess strong competence in evaluating a variety of hardware and software, as well as the relevant skills required to successfully troubleshoot a technical issue and find a practical solution. This is evidenced in my effective facilitation of the installation of a new model of Interactive Whiteboard (IWB) in 2012 and the provision of ongoing support in regard to its use.
• I have extensive experience in implementing modern technological tools into effective classroom practice, continue to research numerous up-to-date technologies that can be used within the classroom, and have participated in such courses as the Interactive Whiteboard SMART Board User Group training on capabilities and use of SMART Notebook software, and the two-day See, Share & Shape the Future SMART Teachers Conference in order to contribute to my skills and capacity to use technology to enhance learning. I participated in hands-on learning with technology on offer for ‘Classrooms of the 21^st Century’. Relevant workshops in which I participated and can educate my colleagues include:
  • Digital education – making change happen
  • Connecting Learning Beyond the School
  • Developing and Monitoring ICT capabilities
  • NEW SMART Products
  • Robotics in the Classroom
  • SMART Notebook for open-ended learning and creative tasks
  • Accessing digital content
  • The power of integrating technologies for learning
• I continually incorporate technology into my classroom practice to achieve the best outcome for my technologically-interested students. After completing four ‘The Wonders of Google’ webinars, I utilised my understanding of the learned capabilities in my teaching, providing a new, exciting and well-received aspect to my students’ learning.  I consistently make use of the IWB, SMART Notebook software, other internet-, intranet- and classroom computer-based IWB applications, computers and (recently) iPads to provide engaging, relevant and effective lessons.  Students in my class are supported and encouraged to make use of the computers available in the classroom, Library and Computer Room to assist with research and learning.
• In 2014 I have successfully implemented a new maths program, Stepping Stones by ORIGO Education, in my classroom, which makes daily use of the IWB, as well as involvement in interactive learning activities as part of the program. Provision of multi-modal lessons incorporating the use of SMART Notebook, animations and other visual media into lessons across other KLAs has also resulted in increasingly engaged and motivated students.

 What I offer Wakehurst Public School:

• Significant capacity to plan, install and implement use of new technologies, improve efficiency of use of existing technology and analyse, troubleshoot and resolve ICT issues in the school.
• Strong ability to incorporate ICT into teaching and learning programs, with knowledge of Connected Classrooms facilitation and various other technological applications.
• Highly proficient user of many computer-based applications, including Microsoft Office programs (with advanced competence in Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher), and willing to educate and support others in their use of the same.
• Great motivation to enhance my current technical knowledge and skill set, research new technologies and educate my colleagues accordingly.

 Ability to plan and implement a range of school programs including drama and public speaking and debating.

Through temporary and casual teaching positions I have had the opportunity to participate in a range of school programs, including public speaking, debating and drama, and with a strong desire to maintain creativity in education, I believe such programs effectively cater for the many different interests, strengths and talents of students.

 Experiences to support this criterion:

• During my four years at Wakehurst PS, I have had the opportunity to successfully coordinate and execute, or directly aid in facilitation of, such programs as the Premier’s Debating Challenge, GATS program, School Concert and Training Band programs, University of NSW International Competitions and Assessments tests and House Sport.
• As Debating Coordinator with Wakehurst PS in 2012, my ability to plan and implement a Debating Program is evident in the successful participation in the Premier’s Debating Challenge. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the debating team to aid and enhance their debating competence and approach, and proudly witnessed momentous improvement in their confidence and skill under my guidance.  My involvement in debating throughout primary and high school has given me insight into potential difficulties experienced by students and approaches to consider when coaching them in this area. As part of this role I participated in local debating network meetings, coordinated ‘home’ debates, organised ‘away’ debates and attended a Debating Workshop delivered by Masters Academy to further enhance my understanding of current best-practice and expectations, which included the modules:
  • Debating: An Introduction
  • Debating: In Practice
  • Debating: In Principle
  • Adjudication Plus
• In my role as a committed classroom teacher, I have spent much time encouraging and inspiring students in the areas of debating and public speaking, often holding one-on-one sessions with my students in order to provide advice and feedback in the specific areas on which they need to focus. As part of my approach to  coaching and mentoring students for involvement in annual public speaking competitions, I facilitate regular peer review sessions in a safe and supportive environment, involving the opportunity for students to provide positive and constructive feedback in regards to their fellow students’ public speaking in class. This has resulted in a significant increase in confidence and ability for my students.
• I consistently utilise the Wakehurst PS subscription to The School Magazine by integrating it into my lessons to demonstrate effective public speaking and drama skills through students reading and performing play scripts. Post-evaluation responses indicate that students find this method of learning highly enjoyable and the quality of student work presented shows clear evidence of a positive shift in their approach to drama.
• With an interest in Drama and the Dramatic Arts, I have worked collaboratively over the past four years with the Drama Teacher to accomplish effective rehearsals and contribute to the school’s end of year grade performances. Never one to shy from giving assistance and instruction on improvement of techniques and dramatic delivery, I have enthusiastically managed and inspired students to give enhanced performances in class, grade and stage performances.  I also possess personal experience in the production of, and performance in, my own high school musical, which provided a unique insight into the requirements, challenges and wonderful opportunities presented by the Dramatic Arts.
• I often consult with, and have access to, colleagues involved in amateur theatre companies, and have assisted in editing and enhancing pantomime play scripts as well as occasional involvement (both as assistant and audience member) in the local Pymble Players Theatre.

What I offer Wakehurst Public School:

• Ability to coordinate and implement a grade-, stage- or whole school-based programs.
• Significant interest in coaching and mentoring students in speech-writing, debating and public speaking presentation skills, with the capacity to coordinate the Premier’s Public Speaking Competition, Premier’s Debating Challenge, or other whole school speaking programs.
• Access to the opinions, ideas and suggestions of directors, stage managers and amateur playwrights, enabling successful implementation of new, or further enhancement of existing, dramatic activities and performances.

A personal interest in creating my own plays and dramatic or musical p