From lining up her teddy bear ‘students’ as a child to preparing for her first real classroom, Holly Moore always knew she was meant to be a teacher. Her journey has come full circle with a permanent position as a Prep teacher at Parramatta State School in Cairns, the same school her grandfather once attended.
'My grandfather attended Prep at Parramatta State School in 1948. I am not sure who is more excited about me landing a permanent position here – me or my pop!'
Holly’s pathway into teaching was shaped by key experiences and support from Teach Queensland, starting with a webinar she attended at her university. ‘I found the
Teach Queensland webinar incredibly insightful,’ she said. ‘It covered the different incentives and supports available for beginning teachers and it’s where I first heard about the
Teach Queensland Prac Placement Grant.’
‘The grant was a huge help both financially and professionally. It helped to cover the cost of being away from paid work. I had completed all my previous prac placements in non-state schools, but my final prac was at White Rock State School. That was easily the most rewarding part of my journey. My mentor teacher completely transformed the way I approach planning and teaching.’
Holly’s connection with state schools deepened further at the
Teach Queensland Regional Roadshow in Cairns, where a conversation with the principal of Parramatta State School changed everything.
Impressed by her enthusiasm and professionalism, Holly was offered a permanent position teaching Prep commencing at the start of the school year.
'He mentioned a Prep position at the school for the new year and I was immediately drawn to it. After the roadshow, I emailed him to express how excited I was about the opportunity. We locked in a time for a school tour and I was absolutely blown away by the staff, the facilities and the strong sense of community. What really drew me in was the level of support the school provides for beginning teachers to succeed.’
'What excites me most about starting my new role is finally getting to have a classroom and students of my own, and building those meaningful relationships with students and families.'
‘I felt incredibly grateful to have been offered such an amazing opportunity. I am beyond excited to begin my teaching career in such a supportive environment.
‘I hope to be the kind of teacher who makes a lasting impact, just like the amazing teachers who shaped me. Starting my career at the same school my pop once attended makes it even more special.’
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