Teaching combines interest in science & people
Julia enjoys the challenge of inspiring her students in their study of science. A dual degree in Science and Secondary Education gave Julia Bruerton the experience and skills to teach Physics and Mathematics at one of Brisbane’s most prestigious private schools. Julia completed a major in Physics and a minor in Mathematics alongside her studies in Education.
Julia Bruerton Senior Physics and Mathematics Teacher Brisbane Grammar School UQ Qualifications Bachelor of Science (Physics and Mathematics) 2010 Bachelor of Secondary Education 2010 SALARY RANGE Minimum $50 000 Maximum $80 000 Average $67 563
“Completing a dual degree gave me the opportunity to experience two very different forms of higher learning,” she said. “I really enjoyed the contrast of the experimental and analytical focus I experienced in my Physics and Maths courses with the focus on societal and cultural understanding I gained in my Education courses.” Shortly after graduating Julia found a job as a Physics and Maths Teacher at Kenmore State High School. She spent a year in that role before moving to Cavendish Road State High School to teach Maths. Julia’s UQ qualifications were an advantage when applying for her current role as a Physics and Maths teacher at Brisbane Grammar School, and her UQ colleagues provided advice and references which supported Julia’s application. “My UQ degree provided me with a solid grounding in my curriculum areas and pre-service placements at wellrespected schools,” she said. “It also helped me to form an excellent network that has helped me in my career.” Julia’s current role involves preparing and delivering lessons, managing assessment and practical work, pastoral care of students and extra-curricular activities such as taking a team of year 10 students to Singapore to compete in the Junior Youth Physics Tournament. One of the most interesting experiences she has had was working on the new National Curriculum.
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“I was involved in writing units of work and assessments, as well as training primary teachers in science to prepare them for the transition into teaching year seven students as part of a high school syllabus,” she said. “The best part of my job is interacting with all kinds of people every day and being constantly challenged by inspiring young people.”