I am a creative STEAM educator with an indefatigable passion for learning new things, and all things. I have a background in Molecular Biology, Zoology and Botany.
My Botany skills and love of gardening led me to embark on a career in education as a primary school Kitchen Garden teacher, then later a TAFE Horticulture teacher. This eclectic background, coupled with my love of tinkering and learning, and my first career aspiration of becoming a Mad Scientist, led me to a career as a STEAM educator.
I am driven by the core value that STEAM education is for everyone, and that you don't have to be a Mad Scientist to enjoy learning about science and technology. Everyone is a scientist: you only need a little wonder, awe, curiosity and play.
Beyond the Bio
What sparked your interest in STEAM Education?
I love the interconnectedness of learning, understanding and the relation to real-world contexts.
When you were at school, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A palaeontologist (until Jurassic Park came out), or a Mad Scientist.
What do you enjoy most about working at Frankston Tech School?
I love that I will never be able to master my job; there is always something new to learn.
What is an area of expertise you are particularly passionate about?
Local food systems, community-driven projects and climate change action.
What piece of technology or equipment at the Tech School that you love using?
Anything that I don't yet know how to use. It's fun to learn how something works and then create a way to use it.
But if I had to name one piece of tech, it would be our Aquaculture tank. Seaweed is magical and a brilliant food source to grow, with a net positive benefit for our marine environment and climate change action!
What emerging technology are you most excited about right now?
Everything to the Grid energy technology that enables widespread electrification to replace non-renewable, carbon-based fuels. I'm loving learning about innovation to upgrade and adapt our existing systems and infrastructure to address Climate Change and our growing need for a consistent energy supply.
What might people be surprised to learn about you?
I started a community garden in my town, and now I am working towards a Community Carbon Forest.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
Knitting and listening to audiobooks and podcasts (at the same time), gardening and swimming (not at the same time).
Would you believe it if I told you...
Whales are mammals so they have whiskers and are born covered in fur.
If you could instantly master one new skill, what would it be?
To stay on task at will.
What is something you'd recommend to students, teachers or colleagues?
Dr Karl said, "The only difference between science and play is writing it down". And my Mum says, "Every day is a new adventure". With that advice in hand, I would recommend building play, awe and wonder into every one of your days.
