Growing up in Catholic education, Charlene was always inspired by those around her to pursue a career as a teacher.
“I was surrounded with support and love from not only my teachers and my family, but also my friends who I grew up with in Catholic schools, many of whom I still keep in contact with,” said Charlene.
“When I was in primary school and was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer was always a Catholic school teacher.”
With 24 years’ experience as an educator, Charlene acknowledges that many of the lessons she’s learnt over the course of her career have come from the students she teaches and she continues to be motivated in her role by watching their growth.
“Every day I learn from the students in my care about how to be accepting of everyone no matter what their circumstance; children tend to accept everyone as equals,” said Charlene.
“Being constantly surrounded by students has also made me aware that time is of the essence - year by year comes around so fast so you need to make the most of every moment and experience you have the opportunity to be involved in.
“Some of my fondest memories from my teaching career are simply all the smiling faces of students I have taught and the many wonderful people I have met. Some of my closest friends are teachers I have taught with. We have shared many successes and challenges together which become part of my professional and personal development.
“I especially enjoy when students approach me to have a chat and tell me about their weekend, their outside school interests and about their pets. I enjoy the innocence and humour of students of all ages and it is rewarding to be a part of and watch students grow in academic achievements and in their social and emotional abilities.”
With her new appointment at St Joseph’s, Charlene aims to continue nurturing the school community while promoting academic excellence and play-based and collaborative learning experiences. Charlene encourages all members of the school community to be involved in the education of their children and in helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.
“I believe the educating of the whole person is the most important and most challenging aspect of being a teacher and leading education,” said Charlene.
“All students have their own special qualities and talents and it takes time to build a relationship with each individual to unlock these qualities and talents. Only when time is taken to do this will the student then discover their own abilities, show their perseverance and build upon their own resilience and wellbeing.
“I hope to build upon my previous experiences as a teacher and principal and to share my knowledge of education and curriculum with staff, students, parents and carers,” said Charlene.
“I would hope to nurture and grow the school community in their educational endeavours and spiritual formation.
“I strive for excellence in education at Kilaben Bay and to promote problem-solving skills through STEM and play-based collaborative experiences for all students from Kindergarten to Year 6.
“I would like to work closely with the staff and parents and carers to create positive relationships and as a result create a successful and happy environment for the students and their families to attend every day.
“I encourage lifelong learning by identifying strengths in others and my goal each and every day is to make a difference in the lives of students, staff, parents and carers.”
To find out how you can enrol your child at St Joseph’s, click here.
