Vocations Magazine 2021

4 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 Teachers play a unique role in the lives of our youth. This has made me reflect upon the notion of “Teaching as a Vocation” within a Catholic school context. I n recent times, there has much highlighted in the media and professional circles about the shortage of teachers in NSW and beyond. This made me ponder upon the special and unique role teachers play in the lives of our youth. In particular, it made me re- flect upon the notion of “Teaching as a Vocation” within a Catholic school context. In my experience, people have entered into the teaching profes- sion primarily because they wish to make a real and deep difference in the lives of our youth. Providing a sense of awakening and nurtur- ing of student learning, character development and faith formation is an altruistic element that is cer- tainly evident in the teaching pro- fession at large. Interestingly, these motives for entering the profes- sion are becoming even more pro- nounced with generations Y (27-41) and Z (12-26). Teaching may be viewed as a calling. It is more than being an ex- pert teacher in a learning space at school. In a Catholic school context, teachers are intrinsically connect- ed with their students as disciples. From a holistic education view- point, teachers intertwine Catholic values in everything they undertake on campus – in and out of the class- room. Teachers strive to work in part- nership with students and families in order for graduates to leave the school gates as the best version of themselves and be who God is call- ing them to be. Some ways that this is achieved by teachers is by their great sense of generosity by attend- ing retreats, reflection days and faith in action (service learning) projects. A critical element is also to genuinely know their students and partner with them on their school journey. I reflect upon my own experience as a school student at a local Catho- lic secondary school and I’m most grateful for the many teachers who nurtured me. In particular, I think of my Year 12 Homeroom and English Teacher, Mr. Olsen. I remember him to be a caring, nurturing, funny and intellectual Catholic man. A man who connected well with me and knew what levers to use in order to get the best out of me as I graduat- ed from school. Recently, I was priv- ileged to meet up with Mr. Olsen at a Catholic school gathering. This was a real honour for me and my conversation with him was most memorable. Mr Olsen’s approach to holistic teaching contributed much to who I am today. As a leader in a Catholic school, it excites me to welcome colleagues who are new to the teaching pro- fession. Many arrive fresh out of university and some from a career change. New colleagues commence with a sense of energy, enthusiasm, joy and wish to be in a place where the Beatitudes are not only taught, but actively lived. Above all else – they generally have a strong desire to make difference to their kids, even if they have not met them yet. Intrinsically, they get the fact that they will need to not only be a good teacher, but also be the face of God to our kids too. The ministry of Catholic school teaching is truly special and life-giv- ing. Teachers understand and value their partnership with parents and carer’s in nurturing the education of the heart and mind of students. As such, our Catholic schools remain authentic places of learning and formation, where our teachers are real beacons of hope and evangeli- sation. Frank Chiment is the Principal Leader at Patrician Brothers’ College, Blacktown Teaching as a Vocation By Frank Chiment Frank Chiment, left with teacher Jim Olson, Frank's Homeroom teacher in year 12. PHOTO: SUPPLIED