Susan Johnson

This role has allowed me to demonstrate my flexibility and to show how I can adapt to a constantly changing role throughout the college.

My time at Ngutu College has taught me to quickly establish and grow relationships with young people, co-workers and families. It has shown me the importance of incorporating First Nations perspectives into education and to foster a sense of belonging amongst all at Ngutu College. It has strengthened my knowledge of child centred pedagogies and introduced me to the practicality of learning from country. I have been learning about the Regio Emilia approach and the concept of the 100 languages of children and have enjoyed using this approach when planning activities for young learners.

The role of relief teacher has taught me to think fast, and to be adaptable. It's shown me the importance of collaborating with others and I have enjoyed learning from educators who have more experience. Being a relief teacher has allowed me to be creative and to bring new enthusiasm each day. It has given me the opportunity to explore outdoor learning, learning through play, connecting to community and to sample many different teaching techniques and philosophies. I have gained valuable and transferable skills during my time as a relief teacher such as how to quickly establish trust and to build relationships.

I had various contracts over the years and specialised in English, Drama and literacy with older learners and worked as a classroom teacher in Primary and Junior Primary schools. These schools include LeFevre HS, Seaton HS, Mansfield Park PS, Valley View HS. I also worked as a relief teacher during this time.

I made lessons fun and brought humour into the learning environment. I liked to plan hands on, enjoyable and purposeful lessons. I worked to establish a sense of trust with my students by always being supportive and approachable. I developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.