In celebration of World Teachers’ Day on 31 October, Bishop Druitt College is proud to highlight four outstanding educators who have received a World Teachers' Recognition Award 2025 from The Teachers' Guild of NSW for contribution to their school and advancing the education profession.

Congratulations to Samantha Maker, Ben Andrews, Fiona Harris, and Kayla Lewis.

Below, each shares reflections on their teaching journey, philosophy, and the meaning behind this recognition.

Samantha Maker

What inspired you to become a teacher, and what drives you to continue teaching today? I was drawn to teaching because it is such a fun and rewarding career where no two days are ever the same. The constant variety, challenges and opportunities to keep learning make it exciting and fulfilling. What keeps me in teaching is the privilege of spending each day with children, their energy, curiosity and growth are inspiring, and it’s a joy to be part of their learning journey.

How would you describe your teaching philosophy? My teaching philosophy is centred on building strong foundations while fostering curiosity and a love of learning. In the classroom, the focus is on creating a supportive and collaborative environment where every child feels seen, valued, and encouraged to grow. Partnerships with parents and families are viewed as essential, building a strong team around each child. I take a holistic approach, supporting not only academic growth but also social and emotional wellbeing, so that students develop confidence, independence and a positive sense of self as learners.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your teaching career so far? One of the most rewarding parts of my teaching career has been experiencing both the big and small moments with students. From helping a student walk through the school doors for the very first time to clapping them out through the Year 12 guard of honour, these milestones are incredibly special. Equally rewarding are the everyday moments, watching children develop confidence and resilience, build empathy and strong connections, show kindness, take risks, persevere through challenges, and follow their curiosity. These moments continually remind me why teaching is such a meaningful and special profession.

What role do you believe teachers play in shaping the future of their students? I believe teachers play a key role in shaping the future of their students by equipping them with the knowledge and skills to achieve their goals, while also nurturing the mindset and motivation to chase their dreams. Beyond academics, teachers help build resilience, empathy and curiosity so that students are prepared to navigate challenges and embrace opportunities with confidence. By supporting both their learning and wellbeing, teachers empower students to believe in themselves and their potential.

How do you engage and inspire students to achieve their best? Students are most inspired when their interests are woven into learning and when a playful, engaging atmosphere makes school feel exciting and fun. Lessons are designed to be accessible for all, with the right level of challenge so each child feels capable and stretched. 

Progress is celebrated often, helping children recognise their growth and take pride in their efforts. Evidence-based approaches ensure every child is supported at their developmental stage and can build strong foundations for future learning.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about in your teaching career? I am excited to explore innovative practices in Early Learning and enhance transition programs to support children as they settle into school. I look forward to celebrating all the special moments in Kindergarten, building strong connections with families and the wider community, and collaborating with a passionate team of educators to make a lasting difference in how children learn, grow, and thrive at school.

Ben Andrews

What inspired you to become a teacher, and what drives you to continue teaching today? I have always had a passion for sport, and growing up I loved playing a wide range of activities. Over time, I discovered that coaching and helping others grasp sporting principles and strategies was something I truly enjoyed, and this has inspired me to pursue a career as a PDHPE teacher.

How would you describe your teaching philosophy? My teaching philosophy is centred on building positive relationships with both students and colleagues. I strive to be a positive role model and create learning environments that are engaging, supportive, and confidence building. When students feel valued and encouraged, they are more likely to apply themselves and reach their full potential. To support this, I use a variety of teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of all learners.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your teaching career so far? During my time at BDC, I’ve been fortunate to take on many different roles, each bringing unique experiences and memorable moments. One of the highlights has been developing the Football Academy, which has grown into an exciting project over the past few years. Working with such enthusiastic students and watching them pursue their football dreams has been incredibly rewarding.

What role do you believe teachers play in shaping the future of their students? Teachers shape the future by being positive role models, helping students build character through values like resilience, respect, and teamwork. As a PDHPE teacher, I see the importance of promoting a healthy and active lifestyle, giving students the knowledge and habits that will support their wellbeing long after they leave school.

How do you engage and inspire students to achieve their best? I’m fortunate to coach the Football Academy and teach Football as a World Option elective, where I work with students who are already passionate about the game. As someone who wishes opportunities like this had existed when I was at school, I strive to design learning experiences that are fun, challenging, and skill-focused, often through realistic match-style scenarios. I also place a strong emphasis on building a positive team culture, where students learn the value of respect, collaboration, and supporting one another as they pursue their goals.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about in your teaching career? I am really excited about the new Horizon Online School that BDC has launched this year. I am enjoying teaching the Health and Movement Science course online and seeing how well students are engaging. The flexible and varied learning opportunities are helping prepare them for their future.

Fiona Harris 

What inspired you to become a teacher, and what drives you to continue teaching today? My initial inspiration came from a deep fascination with the "a-ha" moment, the visible spark when a complex concept suddenly clicks for a person. I recognised early on, as a student, that I had an ability to break down challenging ideas into manageable, relatable parts.

What drives me today is the opportunity to be a genuine connector and motivator. Having taught a diverse range of courses, from Year 7-12 Maths, Science, Chemistry, Biology and Agriculture, I’m motivated by showing students the relevance and interconnectedness of this range of subjects. Seeing students develop and use skills developed in my class to solve problems, or simply choose a pathway inspired by something they learned, is what keeps my interest in teaching year after year.

How would you describe your teaching philosophy? My teaching philosophy is centered on bringing relevance and student agency.

Relevant: I believe in delivering a high-quality, challenging curriculum, but I always ensure the content is framed within real-world applications. Whether it’s connecting linear equations to budgeting, discussing sustainability in Agriculture, or types of bonding in Chemistry, the students must understand why they are learning it.

Student agency: I strive to create a classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks and have a voice in their learning process. This involves establishing clear, high expectations and then scaffolding the support necessary for every student to reach them, fostering the independence they'll need in their adult life.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your teaching career so far? Working in a community environment, alongside a large team of colleagues is rewarding on a daily basis, knowing we are like minded and share a heart for the next generation. I love seeing my students have lightbulb moments in class and then see the potential of achieving more than they thought possible. I find it extremely rewarding to hear feedback from past students when they reflect on the inspiration and sense of self belief they took from our classes, and the opportunities they have been able to pursue as a result.

What role do you believe teachers play in shaping the future of their students? I believe our role extends far beyond subject matter expertise; we are essential role models and cultivators of resilience, critical thinking, and ethical citizenship. Our impact is lasting because we don't just teach the curriculum; we model a growth mindset and provide the connections that empower students to define and achieve the future that they want.

How do you engage and inspire students to achieve their best? It’s important to me to show students the direct, real-world relevance of the content that they learn in my classes. I also make every effort to connect what the students are currently learning to concepts they have learned in the past. Recognising that students learn differently, I strive to make varied resources and activities accessible to all. I focus on the learning process rather than just the final product with the view to building student confidence, inspiring them to challenge themselves and achieve their personal best.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about in your teaching career? I am most excited about continually trying new things, ensuring my teaching practices meet student needs and remain at the forefront of educational excellence. I am also excited to see the fruit of my years of teaching, feedback from students who have been inspired to move forward and become young leaders and professionals in society.

Kayla Lewis 

What inspired you to become a teacher, and what drives you to continue teaching today? I think we all remember our favourite teachers and even the not-so-favourite ones. The teachers who listened and nurtured us when we were little left a lasting impact, and I have carried those memories with me. I became a teacher because I have always believed in the power of education to shape not only what children know, but also who they become. What has inspired me most is the idea that I can walk alongside young learners as they discover their strengths, passions, and voices. Today, what keeps me going is seeing those little moments - when a child proudly shares something they have worked hard on, when they show kindness to a friend, or when they surprise themselves with what they can do. Those moments remind me why teaching matters.

How would you describe your teaching philosophy? My teaching philosophy is all about relationships, curiosity, and growth. I believe kids learn best when they feel safe, valued, and encouraged to have a go. I see myself as a mentor or coach, giving them chances to have a say in their learning, try things hands-on, and think about what they’ve learned. I want my students to build not just knowledge, but also confidence, kindness, and resilience.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your teaching career so far? The most rewarding part of my career has been watching students grow not just academically, but personally. Working in K-12 colleges throughout my journey has meant that I have taught children in their very first years of school and then had the privilege of seeing them graduate across the stage as Year 12 students. I have shared in their highest highs and supported them through their lowest lows, and being part of that journey is something I treasure deeply.

What role do you believe teachers play in shaping the future of their students? I often think back to the moments when a student has come back years later to tell me something I said or did that stuck with them - sometimes it is the smallest gesture that makes the biggest difference. Those reminders show me how deeply teachers shape the future. We help children see what they are capable of and who they can be. Beyond academics, we model kindness, perseverance, and empathy. Our influence extends into how students view themselves, how they treat others, and how they navigate challenges. I believe that every positive relationship, every encouraging word, and every opportunity to shine adds to the foundation that students will carry into their future.

How do you engage and inspire students to achieve their best? I engage students by making learning meaningful and active. I use hands-on activities, real-life connections, and chances for them to take ownership of their learning. One of my favourite moments is when a student who was hesitant at first lights up during a hands-on activity. This term when we were building arrays with themselves in the playground or exploring insects up close and suddenly starts explaining their thinking with pride. I also take time to listen to their ideas and celebrate their progress, no matter how small. I’ve found that when students feel heard, respected, and supported, they are more motivated to challenge themselves and achieve their best.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about in your teaching career? Stepping into a leadership role this year as the Stage One Coordinator has given me the chance to have an impact on more students and their families, not just the children in my own classroom. It has been rewarding to work alongside colleagues, support them in their practice, and see how our shared efforts create positive change across the stage. I am most excited about continuing to grow as a teacher and finding new ways to inspire my students. I look forward to deepening my practice in social-emotional learning and the well-being space, because I believe it is such an important part of helping children flourish. I am also excited to keep exploring creative, hands-on approaches that bring learning to life. Ultimately, what excites me most is knowing that every year brings a new group of children with their own stories, and I have the privilege of being part of their journey.

In the lead-up to World Teachers' Day, we extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Sam, Ben, Fiona, and Kayla (and to all of our incredible teachers) for their unwavering dedication and outstanding contribution to excellence in education.

The Teachers' Guild of NSW Media Release