‘I’ve always connected with the idea that “you can’t be what you can’t see,” and as a teacher, I want to be that positive presence in the lives of my students.’
Meet Jayden Elder, a proud First Nations man and passionate teacher who is making his mark in the classroom. His journey into teaching has been defined by resilience, a love for helping others and a commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces for young people to thrive.
Jayden’s pathway to teaching was supported by the
Pearl Duncan Teaching Scholarship, an opportunity that helped him turn his work as a teacher aide into a teaching career. Designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to pursue teaching careers, the scholarship provided him with more than financial assistance, it also gave him a sense of purpose and responsibility.
‘This scholarship was a recognition of my potential as an educator and a reminder of the values Pearl Duncan championed: excellence, community and service,’ Jayden says. ‘It allowed me to focus on my development as a teacher and reinforced my commitment to giving back to the communities that have shaped me.’
The support of the scholarship provided Jayden with the opportunity to engage fully in his studies and professional experience placements, while also connecting him with a community of like-minded, passionate educators.
The desire to lift others up was planted early. Growing up, his love of sport brought him into contact with mentors who not only guided his skills but also impacted his sense of identity and purpose. ‘These role models helped me see the powerful influence a positive presence can have, especially for young people navigating their own journeys,’ Jayden says.
At home, his mother’s work in the community offered another source of inspiration. Watching her compassion and advocacy showed him the importance of creating environments where people feel seen, valued and supported.
‘Teaching became more than just a career. It became a way for me to help build confidence, foster belonging and empower students to believe in themselves,' he reflects.
Jayden’s first experience in education was as a teacher aide working across diverse tasks and classrooms, giving him critical insights into teaching.
‘I learned early on that meaningful learning begins with connection—taking the time to understand each student and recognising that growth looks different for everyone,’ Jayden shares.
This hands-on experience gave him a strong foundation for his teaching career, helping him develop skills in collaboration and communication, which he applies when working with colleagues and families to support student success.
Now working as a Health and Physical Education teacher at
Goodna State School, the transition has been both exciting and challenging, but it allowed him to create a space that reflects his values as an educator. ‘One of the most rewarding parts of teaching has been seeing my students grow—not just academically, but in their confidence and resilience,’ he says.
As a proud Bwgcolman (Palm Island) man, Jayden’s cultural heritage is central to his identity as a teacher. ‘My teaching style is shaped by my culture—it’s about building trust, respect and genuine connections with students,’ he explains.
Jayden is intentional about creating inclusive and supportive classrooms where every student feels seen and valued. He incorporates First Nations perspectives into his teaching, ensuring that cultural heritage is recognised and celebrated in an authentic and meaningful way.
One of Jayden’s most memorable teaching experiences involved working with a family who had recently moved from a small Aboriginal community. At first, the classroom felt unfamiliar and overwhelming for the students, but Jayden’s consistent support helped foster a sense of safety and belonging. One of the students went on to become a Cultural Captain, a proud moment that Jayden describes as a reflection of their resilience and growth.
‘To see that student stand with confidence in their identity and lead others was such a powerful moment,’ he says. ‘It reminded me that teaching is about creating the conditions for students to believe in themselves and their potential.’
With his commitment to education and community, Jayden is excited about the future. ‘Teaching gives me the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people,’ he says.
For Jayden, the Pearl Duncan Teaching Scholarship has been an invaluable part of his journey, enabling him to focus on his studies and professional growth while staying true to his cultural heritage.
Could this be your next step?
Find out more about the scholarship and how it could help you achieve your teaching dreams.