Teaching student set to graduate ready to tackle the real challenges of the profession
Jasmine Kernaghan is completing her final semester of her postgraduate degree, Master of Teaching (Secondary), and is already enjoying teaching in the Western Sydney region – a role she said was made possible thanks to the connections made as a student at Western Sydney University.
Jasmine started her university journey by undertaking a Bachelor of Health Science (Pathway to Teaching Secondary), which she knew would allow her to pursue a career where she could make a meaningful impact in young people’s lives through education.
“I chose to study at Western Sydney University because it offers a strong foundation for becoming a well-rounded and adaptable teacher, something that I believe is imperative as a teacher,” said Jasmine.
“The depth and breadth of the degree provided me with a strong understanding of health, wellbeing, and human movement, which now directly informs my teaching practice in PDHPE.
“The opportunity to be qualified in two Key Learning Areas was a key factor in my decision, as it allowed me to focus on two vastly different subject areas that I am passionate about: PDHPE and English.”
Throughout her studies Jasmine enjoyed the opportunities provided by the University to engage with the local community and exercise her skills.
“These opportunities set me up well for my master’s degree and enhanced my passion for PDHPE teaching.”
When her undergraduate degree was complete Jasmine pursued the Master of Teaching (Secondary), eager to build on her background in health science and gain the professional teaching skills needed to work effectively in secondary schools.
When it came time to complete her first placement at Kingswood High School, Jasmine knew the University had set her up for success.
“I feel that the learning I had undertaken prepared me well by providing a strong balance of theory and practical strategies that I could apply in the classroom.”
“From behaviour management strategies to methods of differentiation, I felt as if my prior learning gave me a strong toolkit to draw from while I was on placement.
“My placement was one of the most rewarding experiences that I have had whilst undertaking the Master of Teaching (Secondary) and I thoroughly enjoyed finally stepping into the classroom.”
Jasmine hopes to continue working in the Western Sydney region for many years to come, with a desire to ‘be the kind of teacher who makes a real difference in students’ lives’.
“I have a particular passion for helping those who face extra challenges both in and out of the classroom.”
“I was drawn to the University’s clear focus on creating teachers who can support a diverse range of learners, an area I’m particularly passionate about, especially in low SES contexts.
“The course doesn’t just focus on content, it encourages reflection, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the students we’ll be working with.”
“I am also excited to continue to use the knowledge that I have gained to support students’ wellbeing, physical literacy and health literacy, to help them to establish lifelong healthy habits.”
Jasmine added to her reflections of her time at Western Sydney University.
“As an Aboriginal person I appreciate the care and consideration taken by the University’s teaching staff to provide genuine and quality opportunities to engage in learning about how to best educate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and about the cultures, histories, and knowledges that shape Australia.”
“Western Sydney University is helping shape me into a teacher who’s ready for the real challenges of the profession, with a focus on the specific challenges that we, as teachers in the Western Sydney area, face.”
ENDS
20 May 2025
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