Teacher Profile: Roberta Henry

TEACHER PROFILE: ROBERTA HENRY
Year Coordinator / Year 4 Teacher

For Roberta (Robbie) Henry, a former Melbournite, it was the mid-June warmth that drew her into Sydney’s circle. The relocation was serendipitous and as she embarked on a new journey Cranbrook was her guiding light, and still is. Robbie reminisces on her journey into the Junior School as a treasure trove of learning and growth. At its heart, the Junior School reflects a love of learning and appreciation of education inextricably, but it’s teachers like Robbie who encapsulate and foster this energy within the classroom.

CRANBROOK IS A CELEBRATION of unity and inclusivity - a place where everyone feels heard and supported. Now, as Year Coordinator Robbie is further contributing to the growth and development of young students, preparing them for a life of inquisitiveness, cognisance, and a passion for learning.

What does your role as Year Coordinator entail? Year Coordinators often serve as a point of contact for students’ academic, social, and emotional needs. Along with my team, I provide guidance, mentorship, and counselling to students, helping them navigate challenges and achieve personal and academic goals. My role is often the bridge between parents and the School. I work closely with teachers to ensure that the curriculum is being effectively delivered.

Cranbrook Junior School is a very social place, and I am often responsible for organising and/or overseeing events specific to our year group, such as excursions, assemblies, parent information sessions, and special events such as Mother’s Day or Grandparent’s Day.

What do you most enjoy about this role? As a Year 4 Coordinator, I have the chance to witness and contribute to the growth and development of young students. I also enjoy the leadership responsibilities, such as guiding and supporting fellow teachers. Finding creative ways to make learning engaging, establishing rewarding relationships and working closely with other educators, staff members, and parents allows me to build a strong sense of community within the School.

I feel very fortunate to also contribute to school-wide initiatives, policies and discussions that help to shape the educational environment for all students. Perhaps the most rewarding element is the moment I get to celebrate achievements with the students. Witnessing the “aha” moments when a student grasps a challenging concept or achieves a personal milestone can be incredibly fulfilling.

What are your favourite moments so far of your time at Cranbrook Junior School? As I’ve been here for 19 years, there are so many. I feel very privileged to work at Cranbrook and to have seen the transformation of the Junior School over my time. When I began at Dickins House, it was just students from K-2. There were only six classes (two for each year level) which made it a small, special place to work. As we have developed it has been wonderful to be part of the transformation of the campus to K-6. Another favourite moment is the annual Year 12 Assembly, where students who were in the Junior School return for a celebration of their years at the Junior School. It is so wonderful to see these students after so many years. I can still see their little faces, but now in these grown-up bodies! Being part of a family’s journey through Cranbrook is an honour and I feel very fortunate.

What do you think are the biggest challenges for the children at Cranbrook Junior School? Children have increased academic pressure, societal expectations, and personal challenges facing them today. Developing healthy social skills, making friends, and navigating social dynamics can also be challenging for some children, particularly when considering their online presence.

In what ways do the Junior School children bring joy to each of your days? The moments when a student’s face lights up with understanding when they solve a problem they once found challenging, or when they make a connection between their learning and the real world are the moments that I cherish. Celebrating achievements and creating a supportive classroom community are also heartwarming experiences. And of course, the funny things they say are always a welcome moment for a giggle!

What words of wisdom would you give to parents considering starting their children at Cranbrook Junior School? Enjoy all the opportunities that the School provides and try to cherish the moments along the way. The years fly by, and before you know it, you’ll be one of those Year 12 boys’ parents sitting in that assembly wondering where that time went.

THE LITTLE THINGS IN LIFE ROBERTA HENRY

HAPPY PLACE

My favourite happy place is my balcony. I am lucky enough to have an amazing view of the harbour and as a Melbourne girl, pinch myself every day that this is what I get to come home to.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So... get on your way!” Doctor Seuss

FAVOURITE RECIPE

That is a tricky one. My husband is an amazing cook, so I have so many recipes to choose from. It would be a close competition between a juicy roast on a Sunday and a lemon tart with cream!