News
From Early Learning through Junior and Senior School, Fintona teachers – whether they teach Commerce, Maths, Science, English, Art, or bring a love of gardening, cricket, baking, or even recreational flying into their personal lives – share a unifying belief: for every student, anything is possible.
That’s why we celebrate Fintona teachers on World Teachers’ Day (Friday 31 October) – and, in truth, every day. With their unwavering commitment and encouragement, they show our girls that with persistence, practice, and a willingness to step beyond their comfort zones, they can uncover hidden talents, passions and strengths they may not even realise they have – growing into the very best version of themselves. What more could we ask for than educators and role models of such calibre and dedication in our classrooms?
Our teachers speak passionately about shattering stereotypes and nurturing a culture of empowerment, where girls are encouraged to believe that no opportunity is beyond their reach.
Science Learning Area Leader, Kevin Christofelsz believes in encouraging every student to see possibility: ‘Our students put great effort into everything they pursue – I want them to know that anything is possible in science and that no opportunity is beyond their reach.’
Science teacher Tiffany Zhou shares a powerful personal story: ‘I struggled with science before Year 11 because I relied on memorisation rather than truly understanding and applying the concepts. However, I kept an open mind and continued studying science for VCE.’ She offers advice to students: ‘it can be frustrating, but with persistence, practice, and experimenting with different study approaches, you may discover a hidden talent for the subject. Don’t give up!’
Commerce Learning Area Leader, Chris Williams echoes this mindset and finds deep satisfaction in student progress: ‘There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing growth from Year 4 to Year 12. To see a student ‘get it’ after struggling with a topic is especially satisfying.’
Head of Senior School, Claire Allen, celebrates the strengths within each student: ‘Everyone has a passion or strength within them, they just might not know it exists yet.’ She says schools like Fintona are special because they provide the space, time and opportunity for students to discover what truly motivates them. ‘I aim to model the importance of having a go, getting involved and trying your best with all the opportunities on offer. I hope to reinforce the notion that we do not have to be perfect, and that even if things do not go to plan, there is much to learn and much joy to be found in pursuing challenges and trying new things.’
Head of Middle School, Justine Hamilton, sums it up beautifully: ‘I fundamentally believe every girl has untapped potential, hidden grit and determination, and every girl can achieve her personal best when she is truly driven to do so. I want to create an environment where the student’s voice is clear, where her needs are authentically met, and where she has the opportunity to shine.’
Equally inspiring is the way our teachers draw inspiration from their students – and from the sense of collegiality and belonging at Fintona. Across all year levels, teachers highlight how the girls’ resilience and kindness continually inspire them to grow professionally and personally, making the school a place where everyone feels they belong.
James Sach, Head of Pedagogy and Curriculum, reflects on this special atmosphere: ’The sense of community at Fintona is very special. The warmth and inclusiveness stand out – the girls are also so supportive of one another and love to celebrate each other’s successes. That’s wonderful to witness as a teacher.’
Early Learning and Art teacher Fran Hyde feels invigorated daily by the creativity of her students and colleagues: ‘My students inspire me every day with their enthusiasm to learn and create. I am fortunate that I get to teach my favourite artists, and they teach me. My art department colleagues, who are all amazing artists, also inspire me to keep creating and making art.’
Junior School teacher Amy Miers also emphasises the supportive relationships within the Fintona community: ‘My colleagues are a passionate group of educators who inspire, encourage and support … I am deeply grateful for all the ways in which they support me personally and create such a warm and collegial workplace. Of course, the best part of working at Fintona is the young women I have the privilege to teach. The joy they find in exploring, testing, discovering and learning, and the fun we have while engaging in this together makes this a wonderful place in which to work.’
As we mark World Teachers’ Day, these words remind us of the twin pillars that define the Fintona experience: the belief that anything is possible for every girl, and the powerful inspiration found in our connected, caring community. On this special day –and every day – we celebrate our teachers for nurturing limitless potential and creating a deep sense of belonging at Fintona.
