At John Paul College, we are privileged to have exceptional staff members who go above and beyond to support our students' learning and wellbeing. One such individual is Anne Smith, a cherished member of our Learning Diversity team. With 31 years of experience at JPC, Anne has played an instrumental role in the development of the SCIL (Stewart Centre for Individual Learning) program. In this spotlight, we delve into Anne’s journey, her passion for supporting students, and her vital contributions to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment at JPC.
When Anne isn't supporting students, you'll find her enjoying her hobbies - gardening, knitting, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She’s also a passionate supporter of the Essendon Bombers, and loves watching cricket and basketball.
Anne has witnessed the remarkable evolution of JPC’s Learning Diversity and SCIL programs. “The support for SCIL students has grown tremendously over the years.” With Case Managers for each year level and a team of dedicated Learning Support Officers, the SCIL program now offers an array of opportunities for students to shine and excel. We’re fortunate to have incredible facilities that enhance the learning experience.”
A day as a Learning Support Officer is never the same, and Anne thrives in the dynamic, fast-paced environment. The day kicks off with friendly greetings in the SCIL foyer, where students and staff connect over games, conversation, and shared moments of joy. In the classroom, Anne supports students with everything from understanding math problems to offering a comforting presence. “It’s about being that familiar face - someone who is always there to help.”
For Anne, the most rewarding part of her work is witnessing student growth. Whether it’s the moment a student grasps a difficult concept or simply knowing they’ve had a positive day academically and socially, Anne finds fulfilment in every success. “Hearing older students talk about how I helped shape their early years at school is incredibly heart-warming.”
Anne believes that fostering common interests among students is key to building strong social connections. “Our SCIL foyer games have sparked great friendships,” she explains, noting how these simple activities help students develop essential social skills.
For those new to the SCIL team, Anne offers invaluable advice: “Get involved in every aspect of the department. We’re a supportive and caring team, always ready to share ideas and celebrate each other’s successes. It’s a wonderful place to work, with a leader who truly cares about the development, wellbeing, and learning of our students.”
Anne’s dedication and passion for her work are just a few of the reasons why she is such a treasured member of the JPC family. Through her work in Learning Support, she continues to inspire and make a lasting impact on the lives of our students.