‘I have come to understand that sometimes the single most consistent safe person in a vulnerable child's life is their teacher. This realisation has inspired me to pursue a career in education.’
Meet Jemma, a Dulguburra Yidinji woman from Yungaburra on the Atherton Tablelands and a preservice teacher living in Cairns. Jemma initially worked in community service and child protection, and is now studying teaching thanks to the assistance of the Pearl Duncan Teaching Scholarship. One of her main motivations for becoming a teacher is her commitment to empowering First Nations students.
'I am passionate about the role of a teacher as an advocate for wellbeing and early childhood development to ensure all students, including First Nations students, can thrive not only academically but personally,’ she says. In child protection, Jemma learned to listen without judgment, communicate effectively, and adapt to the needs of diverse groups.
She has undertaken a number of professional experience placements in Cairns. ‘I have met so many First Nations teachers who are all so passionate about teaching! I felt right at home yarning and laughing with them in the tea rooms.’
This year, Jemma was sponsored by the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation to attend the National Youth STEM Summit in Naarm/Melbourne. 'It was this opportunity that really solidified my interest in teaching Science as I am passionate about providing students with hands-on learning experiences that ignite their curiosity about thenatural world, while also embedding First Nations perspectives into lessons. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are considered the world's first scientists, with a scientific tradition spanning over 65,000 years that integrated knowledge of astronomy, biology, and physics with practical applications in fire management, navigation, and agriculture. Their scientific practices are integral to their culture, and examples include creating the boomerang, building fish traps, and using astronomy to guide planting and harvesting. It is wonderful to teach students how Lomandra leaves can be used in traditional basket weaving methods or fruits of the rainforest like quangdong that is a food source not only for Aboriginal peoples but also the Cassowary.’
‘In my second prac placement at Parramatta State School, the Year 2 students were learning about Earth resources, for example water, soil, plants and animals. I was able to teach the students how food is cooked by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the soil. Meat and vegetables are prepared and wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in the soil, as an oven, for hours beneath coals and hot stones. This is called a Kup Murri.’
Jemma told us about the importance of First Nations peoples to become teachers. ‘They play a vital role not only as mentors for preservice teachers but also in supporting and advocating for First Nations students and their families. Additionally, they help ensure that First Nations perspectives are authentically and culturally appropriately embedded in lessons and across the wider school community.’
The Pearl Duncan Teaching Scholarship has allowed Jemma to concentrate on her studies without the financial stress of working. With her husband working in remote Western Australia, flying in and out and working 2 weeks at a time, children and study, Jemma has found the support of the scholarship invaluable.
‘My time is spread thin with its focus on completing my degree, gardening, going to the gym (proactively staying on-top of my wellbeing as I enter a very demanding profession), driving my children to their sports and coaching commitments: futsal, touch football and basketball... this scholarship has provided me with a platform to share my story, meet other scholarship recipients and gain inspiration and guidance from a community of passionate, like-minded educators. Additionally, it will assist me with employment with the department upon completion of my degree. I am very grateful for the legacy of Aunty Pearl Duncan and the opportunities she has created for First Nations educators.’
With strong ties in the Cairns community, Jemma hopes to stay in the area after she graduates.
‘I often go for walks for study breaks to explore places like the Crystal Cascades in Cairns. My children and I love exploring the many special places of Cairns including the Great Barrier Reef. I would love to work in Redlynch or Cairns when I graduate. I feel very fortunate to have built strong connections within the local community.’
The Pearl Duncan Teaching Scholarship supports individuals from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds with financial assistance to pursue a teaching career and make a difference in and beyond the classroom.
Find out more.