Inspired by friends teaching in Alice Springs and Maningrida, Airlie made the leap from Melbourne to Darwin to begin her teaching career. “I’d wanted to move to the Territory for years. After finishing my Masters of Secondary Teaching, I chose Darwin for its diverse food scene, stunning national parks, and outdoor lifestyle.” Joining the Graduate Teacher Program was a natural fit, offering professional development and the opportunities to connect with peers across the NT.
Her first year has been a mix of challenges and achievements, particularly teaching senior subjects. “The assessment load is intense, but seeing my students receive their Year 12 certificates at graduation made it all worth it.” One of Airlie’s most rewarding experiences was leading the ‘Taste of the Territory’ event, where students created dishes featuring local NT ingredients, showcasing teamwork and collaboration skills.
Support has been key to managing the pressures of teaching in a new environment. “I’m lucky to have an incredible mentor and a school culture that values sharing resources. Outside of work, I nourish myself with food, exercise, creative pursuits, and the support of my partner, friends, and family across Australia.”
Living in the NT has brought new experiences, from fishing and camping to shopping at local markets. Airlie’s advice for new teachers is simple: “Listen, ask questions, breathe deeply, and take time for yourself. It’s all part of the journey.” Reflecting on her passion for food and teaching, she shares a favourite quote by Michael Pollan: “Food is not just fuel. Food is about family, food is about community, food is about identity. And we nourish all those things when we eat well.”
As Airlie continues to grow and inspire her students, we extend our best wishes to all graduates embarking on their first year of teaching in 2025. May their journeys be as rewarding and enriching as Airlie's.
If you're looking to start your teaching adventure in the Northern Territory explore vacancies here > https://bit.ly/4eEpixz
