A journey of passion and purpose in education
With over a decade of experience in educational settings, Lisa Stephens passionately believes ‘there is nothing more rewarding than guiding children as they grow into young adults’.
Studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Western Sydney University, she aspires to become the teacher that students remember, including as their inspiration for continued lifelong education.
Lisa is a participant in the Department of Education Grow Your Own teacher program and is currently working as a school learning support officer (SLSO) in a NSW public school.
“I am particularly passionate about helping children who come from difficult home lives to realise their potential, not just in education but as members of society. When I reflect on my own experience through primary and high school I am reminded of times where, with the right support, my journey could have improved,” said Lisa.
Lisa didn't have a love for school so once she completed Year 10, she went and started working in basic administrative roles in corporate offices before starting a traineeship as an Early Childhood Educator at the age of 29.
She loved being an Educator so as soon she achieved her Certificate 3, she signed up to study for a Diploma of Early Childhood. Her career progressed as she took a role as the Manager of a corporate childcare centre in Sydney’s CBD.
Putting her family’s needs first, she took a career break when she had children. When she returned to paid employment, Lisa seized an opportunity to continue working with children as a school learning support officer (SLSO) in a NSW public school.
“I have been working as an SLSO for 6 years now and the new Department of Education Grow Your Own teacher program has provided me with the opportunity to further my career and training to become a primary school teacher,” she said.
“My current role is to support students who need extra learning support, whether that be due to individual learning difficulties, behavioural issues, poor attendance or social challenges. I support teachers in the planning for the delivery of the curriculum for a variety of students.
“Working in a NSW public school I witness every day the positive impact that schools have on students and their community. My school is full of amazing colleagues who are student-focused and want to positively impact students’ lives. Together we reflect on the changes we witness, student achievement and growth. Schools are demanding but very rewarding places to work.”
Lisa chose to study at Western Sydney University following recommendations from friends who completed their teaching degrees at the University. As a parent who is studying and working full time while she works towards being a fully qualified teacher, studying in a supportive environment was crucial.
“Teachers I know all had great experiences and emphasised that the extra support from the lecturers was paramount to their success at Western Sydney University. The Bankstown City campus is also close to my home which allows me the flexibility to visit the library or other campus facilities at any time that I need to.”
Lisa’s advice to other education students is to actively engage in class discussions, take advantage of the resources available such as libraries, student services hub and study clubs, and develop connections with your classmates, lecturers, and Student Support Services team.
“Remember that everyone's journey is unique, so embrace challenges, learn from your experiences, and enjoy the process of learning and growing as an educator.”
ENDS
19 August 2024
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
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