As part of our regular feature about some of the great teachers we are lucky enough to have here at GV Noosa, this week we speak to Dionne, who is currently teaching one of our upper-intermediate classes.
How long have you been teaching at GV Noosa and what did you do before you worked here?
Well, I’ve been to three Christmas Parties at school so I guess I’ve been teaching here for at least 3 years! Before that I was a primary school teacher in Victoria for 15 years.
Do you speak another language and what has been your biggest challenge when learning it?
I don’t, but I’m trying to teach myself Spanish. I’ve got Spanish lessons on my iPod and I have bought text books from Amazon. I also watch Spanish movies and use an internet program. I started last year with lessons from one of my students. The biggest challenge, though, is not being immersed in an environment where I can practise.
Which class are you teaching at the moment?
I’m teaching one of our upper-intermediate classes. My students are fantastic, outgoing, motivated and have a great sense of humour. They all participate fully, it’s a great group!
Please tell us about a student in your class who you feel has made outstanding progress…
I can’t really answer this question as we have only been together for a week. They are so motivated to learn anyway that they will all be successful!
What do enjoy most about teaching at GV Noosa?
So many things! I love meeting people from all over the world. it’s also really nie to teach students who want to learn and are not obliged to, like at school. My colleagues are really nice too, we’re real friends, everybody is always happy – it’s a great dose of laughter!
If you weren’t a teacher, what job do you think you would be doing now?
Hmmm…I can’t imagine not being a teacher. If I wasn’t, I’d like to be a children’s TV host, like a Wiggle or something like that. It looks fun, it’s colourful and bright!
What do you like most about living on the Sunshine Coast?
The relaxed atmosphere, the beach and the opportunities it provides to my kids. They go surfing and can play all kinds of sports. Actually, I also enjoy the unpretentiousness of the people living here…
What is your favourite cafe, restaurant, shop or place in Noosa?
My favourite cafe is Fratellini in Sunshine Beach ( http://www.yourrestaurants.com.au/guide/fratellini/) and my favourite restaurant is definitely Bistro C (http://www.bistroc.com.au)
My favourite places are all the beaches around the National Park and as for my favourite place to shop, well…I hate shopping!
