Inspiring teachers not only give their pupils engaging lessons but also guidance, support and encouragement. These Victorian secondary school teachers make every effort to inspire their students each day.
What made you want to enter teaching?
I had some amazing teachers growing up in both primary and secondary school as well as at university. These included my parents! This was part of my motivation to become a teacher as I recognised the impact my educators had on me and realised I could do the same for others.
I strongly believe every student deserves an education that meets their individual learning needs and empowers them with the knowledge and ability to be the best version of themselves. I aim to foster a desire in my students for independent lifelong learning, as well as a keen interest in having an active and healthy lifestyle. I always strive to achieve my best and inspire my students to do likewise.
What do you like most about working in a school?
I love the connections you create with students, colleagues and families. Given my background in sport, I really enjoy working in a team environment and thrive off the energy that this team approach creates.
What are some of the changes to education that you have witnessed in your time as a teacher?
I have been teaching for 10 years and things are constantly changing. I have been really fortunate to work with colleagues who, like me, always strive to do things in the most creative and engaging ways possible.
Whether this be through technology, teaching methodology or introducing new ideas, I have always wanted to evolve my teaching style every year.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
When students feel comfortable in the environment you create and are highly engaged and passionate about what they are studying. Having worked as a Year Level Coordinator I also find it really rewarding to support students to overcome challenges they may have in their lives and seeing them go on to develop into self-sufficient young adults.
What are some special achievements of your colleagues, students and the school that you are most proud of?
Yarra Valley Grammar is an exceptional place to work as I am surrounded by students and colleagues with a diverse range of talents who want to excel in their area of expertise. Whether that be on the sporting field, on the stage or in the classroom; we are constantly encouraging each other to get the best out of ourselves.
What hopes do you have for the future of your school?
I hope that Yarra Valley Grammar continues to provide the broad range of outstanding experiences that already exists.
What is your motto for teaching success?
Building a strong rapport with students is the key to successful teaching. If students feel motivated within the learning environment created they will be more likely to thrive and have the confidence to achieve.
Marcellin College takes pride in its exceptional educators who go above and beyond to inspire and guide its students. One such remarkable teacher is Christina Cammarano, whose passion and dedication have left an indelible mark on the school community. Christina teaches Italian, Religious Education (RE) and Humanities, bringing a unique blend of enthusiasm, expertise and empathy to her classrooms.
Christina’s journey at Marcellin College began more than a decade ago and, since then, she has been a beacon of inspiration for both students and colleagues. Her love for the Italian language and culture is infectious, and she brings the richness of Italy to life in her lessons. Whether through interactive language activities, cultural-immersion experiences or engaging storytelling, Christina ensures that her students not only learn Italian but also develop a deep appreciation for the culture.
Her classroom is a vibrant space where students feel encouraged to explore and express themselves, fostering a lifelong love for language learning.
In her Religious Education classes, Christina creates a nurturing environment where students can explore their faith and spirituality. She approaches RE with a deep sense of respect and openness, encouraging students to ask questions and engage in meaningful discussions. Christina’s ability to connect religious teachings to everyday life helps students see the relevance of faith in their personal journeys. Her compassionate and inclusive teaching style ensures that every student feels valued and supported, making RE a subject that resonates deeply with them.
Christina majored in history and humanities and ignites a passion for history, geography and social studies. She has a knack for making complex concepts accessible and exciting, often integrating technology and real-world connections into her lessons. Christina’s students are not just passive learners, they are active participants in their education, encouraged to think critically and independently. Her commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are curious about the world and empathetic towards others is evident in every lesson she teaches.
Beyond her academic contributions, Christina is a pillar of the Marcellin College community. She is actively involved in extracurricular activities, organising cultural events, language appreciation opportunities and retreats that enrich the students’ educational experience. Her dedication to holistic education and her genuine care for her students’ wellbeing make her an invaluable asset to the school.
Christina embodies the values of Marcellin College, inspiring students to strive for their highest with humility, excellence, acceptance, resilience and trust. Her unwavering commitment to education and her ability to connect with students on a personal level make her a true inspiration for prospective families considering Marcellin College.
When she’s not teaching, Christina is making her mark on the dance floor, with a passion for ballroom dancing that has her ranked 11th in Australia.
What made you decide to enter teaching?
My high school English teacher, Ms Barnsley, was a significant role model for me. Her passion for teaching and commitment to equal rights inspired me. I realised teaching would allow that same opportunity to inspire and help others, travel the world and pursue my love for English literature, languages and humanities. The opportunity to mentor and guide students socially and emotionally is incredibly rewarding and drives my commitment to teaching.
How long have you worked at Sacré Coeur?
I started teaching at Sacré Coeur in January 2014.
What attracted you to the school?
When I first visited the school, I was immediately drawn to its warm and nurturing environment. The fact that it’s a P-12 campus was particularly appealing, as it fosters a unique opportunity for students and teachers to connect and collaborate across both the Junior and Senior schools. In my previous role, I taught middle and senior school classes and became frustrated with the limited effectiveness of many primary language programs. I was eager to find a school that allowed me to innovate the language program, ensuring that students leave Year 6 with meaningful proficiency in the language they’ve studied, rather than just memorising vocabulary lists.
What do you love about teaching today, especially at Sacré Coeur?
In a world that’s evolving rapidly, with innovations emerging at an unprecedented pace, I find great joy in the dynamic nature of teaching. We are continually challenged to rethink our methods, embrace new technologies and adapt to an uncertain future. This constant evolution keeps the teaching profession both stimulating and enjoyable, as we’re always learning and growing ourselves.
At Sacré Coeur, I’m especially excited by our connection to a network of more than 150 schools. The advances in technology have made it possible for us to collaborate and engage with educators and students beyond our own campus. This global network opens countless opportunities to enhance the 21st century skills crucial for our students’ future success. It’s invigorating to be part of such a vibrant and interconnected educational community.