TC Teacher Spotlight: Jason O’Malley
Mr Jason O’Malley joined Trinity College in 2017. Originally starting in the Secondary School, he moved to the Junior School in 2019 and soon became a firm favourite of the Junior School students. In 2022 Jason made the switch back to Secondary School and joined the Health and Physical Education Department as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Coordinator. He also recently implemented the new Ignite Award that helps those younger students discover their inner strengths and teaches them how they can make a difference in their local community. Here, we get to know a little more about Mr O’Malley. Tell us about your teaching journey to Trinity College? Was teaching something you always wanted to do? My teaching journey before Trinity College had seen me teaching at a variety of other schools both public and private. I went to a Catholic co-ed school called Mercy College and Mr Fritz was actually my Head of Year at the time. When I was growing up, I wanted to be the next AFL star, police officer, fireman and even the next Rex Hunt at one stage. Fortunately, I found an even better job and that was teaching. My passion for teaching stemmed from coaching and helping others be the best versions of themselves.
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WINTER 2022 – TRINITY NEWS
Has it been a big step from teaching in the Junior School to what you are doing now? Teaching in the Junior School was an experience I will never forget. The variety of opportunities and fun I had in 6 White gave me an insight into what makes boys ‘tick’ and for me, that was friendly competition. The longer I could keep the boys engaged in my lessons through different ways such as praise, movement, differentiated tasks and acting out scenarios, the more the students were engaged. One fond memory I would like to share is when a couple of students made an impressive water rocket called ‘NASA’ – so powerful it launched into the WACA. Luckily, no one was hurt in the process!
You are currently the Coordinator for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award program. Why is a program like this so valuable to the students who get involved? Every student who has been involved with the Duke of Edinburgh has always shared positive experiences and comments. Whether it be helping in the community or learning a new skill, training for an upcoming competition or even organising an adventure camp with friends, every student has enjoyed it. Not only does it provide a great avenue to get out and about and help others, but it makes you feel good also. Studies have found that acts of kindness are linked to increased feelings of wellbeing.
