STAFF SPOTLIGHT
introducing. .
Anthony Bochrinis
Adam Lakey
Chrisna LeVaillant
Head of Learning Area - Mathematics
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
St George’s Anglican Grammar School
Peter Carnley Anglican Community School
John Wollaston Anglican Community School
I began my teaching career a little later than most who enter the teaching profession. It came from an epiphany when I realised that investment banking was not for me and that what I wanted most in life was to bring my passion for mathematics to the classroom. It is a decision that I have never once regretted.
Having not studied any Science subjects in High School, becoming a Science Teacher has been quite a journey. During High School I wanted to be a part of the media industry, having a passion for film and camera-work. However, my interest in Science grew after taking a break from study following Year 12.
My past experiences allow me to bring the business world into the classroom and for that I am truly grateful. I started as Head of Learning Area Mathematics at the beginning of 2021 having come from Newman College and since joining the ASC network of schools, I have found the collegiality and support to be both a joyful experience and immensely empowering. I have become part of a motivated and friendly workplace that operates at the intersection of family and achievement.
I eventually took the leap and started a Bachelor of Science at La Trobe University in Melbourne, before transferring over to the University of Western Australia to complete my degree, graduating with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science with first class honours in Microbiology. During this time, I spent time researching and developing novel ways of combatting highly virulent Meningococcal strains in the hope of developing more effective vaccines. I originally wanted to go down this path of academia, but later realised this wasn’t the career for me.
I have always had a love of Science but I never imagined I would become a Science teacher. My career began in the field of Genetic Science after completing a Bachelor of Science and Master of Medical Science in Auckland, New Zealand. When I moved to Australia, I continued to work as a Genetic Scientist for Ozgene and later the University of Western Australia, before making the transition into teaching.
We live in a world where the discovery of new mathematics is slowing down, but its application is growing in a number of new industries and its skills for adult life are indisputable. The mathematics team at St George’s lives by the mantra of seeking to teach students to be future problem solvers. We do not subscribe to the notion of not being able to flourish in mathematics and, instead of harnessing mathematical anxieties, embody a growth mindset in our students of not understanding maths ‘yet’. In 2022, my life will change again as I step into a Senior Executive role as the newly appointed Head of Curriculum at St George’s Anglican Grammar School. It is a new chapter and a role that combines my many passions for teaching and learning. I am excited each and every day to be involved in education and thankful that St George’s allows me to pursue my passion.
After taking another break, my joy of teaching started to develop. I took another leap and completed my teaching qualifications, which led me to become a science teacher at PCACS. Since joining PCACS, I have been able to fulfill my passions, taking an interest in the mental health and wellbeing of students, as well as instilling an interest in the world of science. My current role as a Year level coordinator has been extremely rewarding where I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to see students grow and develop. Likewise, I feel very lucky to be part of a school environment that prioritises students’ wellbeing and provides a growing framework to develop the resilience and empathy that our future community needs.
In 2014 I arrived at John Wollaston to teach Science and since then I haven’t looked back. I love working as a teacher because I get the opportunity to inspire my students to understand that their learning and action in the community can contribute to progress on a global scale. My passion for the environment and sustainability practices has influenced the way I teach Science. Working with the Year 7s I use inquiry based learning to link curriculum expectations to global issues. Students participate in a Waste Wise Audit and study Hydroenergy in their Chemistry unit. In 2017 I implemented a sustainable garden in the School, using the vegetables to prepare food for the soup kitchen. I have also worked as a mentor for student leaders, helping introduce new recycling initiatives including a containers for change scheme. I was a finalist in the 2021 United Nations Association WA Branch for Excellent Initiatives in Sustainability Award. The Award celebrates outstanding contributions to the WA teaching profession, in support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. I am proud that our school’s culture and shared understanding make it easier to link teaching with action and to help the next generation discover their own passion for sustainability, Science and STEM. ASC News 19
