One passionate teacher can transform a student's perspective on education. This was the case for Hamish Gardner, who found joy and purpose in the classroom studying English during his senior years of high school. He strives to inspire that passion in his students.
“We could be the one solid figure of trust in a student’s life. Our role extends far beyond educating; we must show we care and are there to celebrate their achievements.”
Discovering the joy of teaching
Despite being a voracious reader, Hamish never found joy in English classes until a particular teacher changed his outlook. This teacher encouraged exploration of obscure books and fostered a passion for context and history. The experience solidified Hamish’s desire to pay forward this enthusiasm and support in adolescents' learning journeys.
Diverse teaching experiences
During his practical experiences, Hamish taught in government, independent, selective and regional schools, gaining a deeper understanding of different student backgrounds and needs. He found teaching in classrooms with a substantial number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students particularly enriching for the inspirational two-way learning relationship it fostered.
Teaching in classrooms where half the student population identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander provided an amazing opportunity to learn from my students.
Influences and mentors
Hamish credits his time at UTS and the dedicated staff for shaping his pedagogy and class presence. Engaging in back-and-forth email conversations with lecturers about literature and receiving consistent support was an important part of his educational journey. Special mentions go to Mark Tredinnick, Don Carter, Anne-Louise Agnew and Robyn Staveley for their unwavering dedication to their students.
“I was shown incredible care and interest by UTS staff. Engaging in conversations with lecturers about Thoreau’s Walden was an unexpected delight.”
Advice for future students
Hamish encourages future students to take full advantage of the university’s facilities and to build relationships with staff. He also emphasises the importance of maintaining friendships and being kind to student teachers, as they will one day be in their shoes.
Hamish's journey to becoming an educator is not only about teaching. It’s also about inspiring, caring and being a constant presence in the lives of students.
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