Organisation: Wakehurt Public School
Job Title: Primary School Teacher
Word Limit: 500 words max pp
Location Northern Beaches
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 teaching experiences demonstrate an ability to teach any grade (K–6) in a wide range of educational settings, delivering exceptional student outcomes. I am an experienced teacher who values innovation and the implementation of up-to-date teaching practices that cater for the needs of 21st Century learners. My NSW DEC approval to teach K–6 is supported by
- Bachelor of Arts with the Diploma of Education (BADipEd) obtained through Macquarie University, NSW in 2010
- Teaching years K – 6 through my temporary placement with Wakehurst Public School over the past two years
- Successfully teaching Early Stage One and Stages One, Two and Three classes at a diverse range of schools
I base my teaching on the NSW Quality Teaching model which identifies three key pedagogies that have been linked to improving student outcomes. The first is based on the intellectual quality of student’s work, the second on providing a quality learning environment and the third, developing a student’s sense of significance in their work. My ability to design and deliver innovative quality differentiated teaching and learning programs that cater for the needs of 21st 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 of students are catered for and enable enhanced results. This is evidenced in my daily use of the SMART Board to assist with facilitating lessons and utilising SMART Notebook software in my class programming.
- Utilising the Teaching Learning Cycle to ensure that all class programs are driven by student achievement. I continuously asses student learning and use this information to review and revise my teaching practice. Through constant reflection I can ensure that I utilise best teaching practice at all times and that my student needs are always being addressed.
- Establishing explicit and systematic learning experiences that promote high order thinking and problem solving skills, resulting in life-long learners with advanced student learning outcomes. This has involved real life demonstrations and experiments so students have a hands-on experience 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 21st I do this by undertaking regular personal development courses in my own time and attending courses provided by the school.
- Developing meaningful learning for all students by executing lessons based on student’s prior knowledge, skills and abilities. My consideration of each student’s background knowledge has resulted in improved student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Empowering students to take ownership of their learning by letting them choose relevant homework assignments or methods of researching and engaging them in self-evaluation and peer reviews.
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 experience demonstrates that I am well qualified to effectively integrate innovative technology across all curriculum areas, as well as coordinate and supervise technology programs across the school. As a classroom teacher, I continually incorporate technology into my classroom practice to achieve the best outcome for my students. In support of this criterion I have:
- Previously job shared with the Computer Coordinator at Wakehurst Public School
- Led, guided and supported other teachers with computer and associated technology, as well as consistently provided advice and technical support with the hardware and software within the school. This has assisted other teachers to enrich learning experiences and achieve excellent results using technology.
- Strong competence in using a variety of software and the relevant skills required to successfully troubleshoot a technical issue and find a practical solution.
- Assisted with logging technology issues with the Department.
- Facilitated the introduction of a new model of Interactive Whiteboard to a new classroom and have provided ongoing support in regards to its use.
- Strong knowledge and experience in implementing modern technological tools into effective classroom practice having participated in Interactive Whiteboard SMART Board User Group training on capabilities and use of Notebook software.
- Attended a 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 21st Century’. Relevant workshops that I participated in include:
- Digital education- making change happen
- Connecting Learning Beyond the School
- Developing and Monitoring and Monitoring ICT capabilities
- NEW SMART Products
- Robotics in the Classroom
- SMART Notebook for open-ended learning and creative tasks
- Accessing digital content
- TECH ZONE
- The power of integrating technologies for learning
- Researched numerous up-to-date technologies that can be used within the classroom and consistently make use of SMART Notebook, SMART Boards, Interactive Whiteboard, iPads and computers to provide engaging and effective lessons.
- Implemented the new maths program, Stepping Stones by ORIGO in the classroom which makes daily use of the Interactive Whiteboard as well as involvement in interactive learning activities.
- Encouraged students to make use of the computers available in the classroom, Library and Computer Room to assist with research and learning. I give ownership to the students by letting them choose how they can best utilise their time on the computers.
- Facilitated the use of videoconferencing technology through DET’s Connected Classroom Project which engages students in discussion with students in other classes and schools.
- Prepared and delivered all of my lessons using the SMART Notebook. I incorporate animations and other visual media into lessons to engage and motivate students.
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. I have the ability to plan and implement these programs through skills gained in the following experiences:
- Held the position of Debating Coordinator with Wakehurst Public School in 2012.
- Attended Debating Workshops delivered by Master Academy which included:
- Debating: An Introduction
- Debating: In Practice
- Debating: In Principle
- Adjudication Plus
- Participated in local debating network meetings.
- Involvement in debating while attending primary and high school which has given me insight into potential difficulties experienced by students and approaches to consider when coaching them in this area.
- Coaching and mentoring students for involvement in annual public speaking competitions.
- Encouraging and inspiring students in the areas of debating and public speaking. I often hold one-on-one sessions with my students where I can provide advice and feedback on specific areas they need to work on.
- Facilitating regular peer review sessions in a safe and supportive environment, involving students where they can provide positive and constructive feedback in regards to each other’s public speaking in class. This has resulted in a significant increase in confidence for some students.
- Utilising my subscription to The School Magazine by integrating it into my lessons to demonstrate effective public speaking through students reading scripts. Post evaluation responses indicate that students find this method of learning enjoyable and the quality of student work presented shows clear evidence of a deep understanding of this subject.
- Working collaboratively in the past two years with the Drama Teacher to assist with rehearsals and contribute to the school’s end of year play.