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Helen Sands

Special education teacher

Helen is a special education teacher at Stretton State College where she works with students from years 7 to 10.

One of Helen's most memorable moments as a teacher was when she was teaching a student with profound multiple disabilities to recognise the different types of money and to use them correctly.

We asked our teachers to reflect on their teaching career and complete the following statements.

I chose a teaching career because...
I thought it would be rewarding and I wanted to make a difference. I also believe that all students should receive a quality education, regardless of their ability level.

The most rewarding aspect of being a teacher is...
The look on a student's face when they finally understand a concept that they have been struggling with. The 'light bulb' moment.

I believe that I have made a difference to my students by...
Caring about them and their education. By not only seeing them as they are now, but by also seeing their future potential and helping them work towards having a happy and productive life after school.

As a state school teacher I have had the opportunity to...
Work in many different areas of teaching (literally prep to year 12) and in different locations.

The three personal qualities that I think are important for teachers are...
A desire to learn, a passion to teach others and a deep belief that all students can learn in the right circumstances.

My career aspirations are...
To work in either educational policy or school leadership.

I would encourage people to consider a teaching career if...
They like challenge, have a love for kids, and have good time management skills.

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This page was last reviewed on 11 Mar 2013