29 October 2021
World Teachers’ Day was held across Australia on Friday 29 October to celebrate the fantastic difference teachers make to the lives of young people every day.
The day is a chance to thank the more than 28,000 public school teachers and recognise the significant role they play in the lives of children and students, their families, and communities.
We thank teachers for their passion and dedication to inspire children and young people.
Despite the challenges of the past two years, teachers bring their best to work and continue to put their students first.
Teachers make a positive impact in our community and we thank them for their passion and dedication to inspire children and young people.
This year, The Department of Education Western Australia partnered with the Association of Independent Schools of Western Australia, Catholic Education in Western Australia and Edith Cowan University to light up WA red and yellow.
Perth landmarks including Matagarup Bridge, Optus Stadium and Yagan Square lit up red and yellow on World Teachers’ Day to acknowledge and recognise teachers across Western Australia.
We spoke with inspiring teachers from across the State to mark the occasion.
Why do you believe it’s important to celebrate World Teachers’ Day?
Woodlands Primary School Deputy Principal Marisa Phoebe: World Teachers’ Day is an awesome opportunity to recognise, celebrate and appreciate the services and contribution of teachers to the education of students as society’s future leaders. Celebrating the work of teachers will raise the profile of our incredible profession to attract the brightest minds.
City Beach Primary School Principal Mari Dart: World Teachers’ Day is a great chance to stop, think about, and thank a group of dedicated professionals around the world who care for and shape our most precious resources, our children, to help them become good people who positively contribute to our world.
Byford Secondary College Mathematics Teacher Ali Zafar Mohammadi: Teachers have a pivotal role in creating future leaders and innovators for a dynamic 21st Century. Recognising the profession of teaching across the world will further motivate teachers and validate the wider community’s appreciation of the amazing work they do every day.
What do you love about teaching?
Pinjarra Senior High School Head of Department – English Ngahuia Hughes: I love working with young people and seeing them understand new concepts and have that “lightbulb” moment. I like listening to my students working together and discussing their ideas and points of view as they teach each other. The best part of teaching for me is the positive relationships I have with my students, colleagues and community.
Southern Cross District High School Deputy Principal Jess Stephen: The satisfaction and pride to be able to have the chance to support and contribute to the lives of our kids is ultimately why we are all here.
Pinjarra Senior High School teacher Darryl Spargo: The most important aspect of teaching is the development of relationships and having an impact, no matter how small, on young people’s lives.