Schools Shaping Future Leaders
We recently met with Tabitha Southey, Our Lady Of Sion College‘s Health and PE Learning Leader. It was a special moment, as Tabitha completed her AFL SportsReady traineeship at the same school, shaping her career path.
A foundation built on practical experience and strong teamwork can lead to significant professional achievements.
Alumni Tabitha’s journey is truly inspiring, she began as an AFL SportsReady Trainee in 2012. Where she’d take students out for different sports competitions and training, run various sporting carnivals and complete the background admin work in preparation.
Her role expanded when she stepped in as an Education Support Officer from January to April 2014, assisting Deputy Principals and the admin team.
Now, as the Health and PE Learning Leader, Tabitha leads the design and implementation of a comprehensive curriculum for students from Years 7 to 12. She oversees a dedicated team, ensuring that classes promote physical fitness and holistic well-being. Her role involves curriculum planning, student assessment and building a culture of health-conscious living within the school community.
Tabitha also reflected on her traineeship experience, sharing how it helped her mature and excel in university. She initially struggled with her studies but found that the hands-on experience during her traineeship prepared her well for the challenges of higher education.
She believes that doing a traineeship can provide valuable insights and skills, making the transition to university smoother.
I knew I wanted to be a teacher very early on and during high school I connected my love for sport and working with younger people. I decided that becoming a PE teacher was an ideal career!
In year 12 prior to finishing school I came across the AFL SportsReady’s Schools Traineeship Program and was very interested in getting some industry experience prior to starting a teaching degree. I was only meant to stay in the traineeship for one year but I really enjoyed my experience. I was very invested in Our Lady of Sion College so I thought ‘what’s another year prior to beginning year’.
I am so glad I did stay for that second year of the traineeship because I went into my teaching degree more mature, motivated and focussed.
Reflecting on those years I don’t think I was ready for year 12 nor would I have been ready to dive straight into a university degree – even though I tried hard in year 12 I just didn’t know myself enough or how to study.
Being able to study and work during my traineeship, I was able to learn how to balance my work and studies. I found a passion to work in schools and gained valuable practical experiences.
Doing a traineeship can provide valuable insights and skills, making the transition to university smoother.
Through the traineeship I learned how to work with different people, I developed skills to work productively in both individual and team settings.
At the end of my uni, I was recognised with a number of different accolades and awards, which you never expect. You don’t go into uni thinking you’re going to win awards, but I think that validated that I was where I needed to be at the right time.
Every year of Tabitha’s university degree she was able to complete school work placements;
My uni was great and I was able to complete my first placement within a few months of starting my degree and began in a primary school.
Tabitha recommends getting into schools as early as possible and as much as possible for work experience.
I would you say to someone that’s considering going into teaching, a lot of schools will allow you to do some work experience and follow shadow a teacher. Get into a school, ideally a primary school if you’re still in high school and try out!
When discussing the role of Trainees in schools, Tabitha noted that having Trainees in specific areas can be highly beneficial.
Students should consider traineeships in schools other than their own to gain a broader perspective and develop adaptability.
I did a traineeship at another school, I didn’t know anyone. So it was quite easy for me to be a staff member.
Her story highlights the positive outcomes that can arise from dedication, practical learning and a collaborative approach to education.
My journey from Trainee to Leader shows the value of hands-on experience, supportive working relationships and how networking is also key.
Tabitha’s experience is an inspiring example for current and future Trainees that building a strong foundation on practical experience and teamwork can lead to major professional achievements.
Tabitha didn’t want to give up on her dream of one day becoming a school teacher.
With over 29 years of experience providing quality job opportunities and launching the careers of thousands of young Australians. AFL SportsReady offers diverse and thrilling opportunities that could take your career to the next level.
Suppose you’re just starting your career or looking to take it in a new direction. AFL SportsReady has something to offer with a commitment to quality training and support. You can be sure you’ll have the tools you need to succeed.
