Teaching inattentive teddies and eager younger cousins were the earliest indicators of what sparked into a lifelong love for education, which she also traces back to her early experiences with her own teachers.

In Year 1, Preston’s teacher Miss Morgan entrusted her with responsibilities in the classroom (such as helping to mark the roll), fostering a sense of purpose.

This calling was further ignited by the passion of her Year 5 teacher, Miss Allen, and her high school History and English teacher, Mr Fraser.

Preston, at present a Primary Middle Leader and Year 6 teacher at Mary MacKillop Catholic College in Highfields, Toowoomba, says her teachers had a passion for education and getting the best out of their students.

“I wanted to be able to be that person for the students in my classes,” she shares

“Of course, many education professionals are shaped by their experiences and the mentors who guide them.”

“They understand that each day is an opportunity to make a difference, and the rewards of teaching extend beyond the classroom.”

“My greatest joy is seeing a student’s perception of themself evolving and this inspires them to feel like they can make a difference, too,” Preston, pictured above, says.

Preston says one of her proudest achievements is what’s called the ‘Work & Welcome’ fundraiser for Multicultural Australia.

“It was inspired by one of our English units which focused on the novel, Boy Overboard by Morris Gleitzman, about a family who journey by boat from Afghanistan in the hope of seeking asylum in Australia.

“The ‘Work & Welcome’ program focuses on providing work experience opportunities for refugees in the local community.”

The program's intention is to provide support for the community beyond the college walls, and for the students to give back through service.

“... plus it also helps them understand that the world is much bigger than Highfields,” Preston says.

“My teaching partners have been instrumental in the success of the initiative, from organising and running our major fundraising event, to offering valuable ideas and feedback.”

The generosity of students and the broader college community has further contributed to its success.

“Hosting an Iraqi refugee as a school officer was a full-circle moment, demonstrating how our efforts truly make a difference,” Preston says, proudly.

The joy of making a difference, no matter how big or small, is certainly what drives many teachers.

Whether it’s changing the course of a lesson with a thoughtful question or seeing a student transform, the impact is profound.

“Making a difference can range from something as simple as changing a challenging day into a more positive one for a student, to providing intervention where a student is better able to understand a topic,” Preston explains.

“My greatest joy is seeing a student’s perception of themself evolving and this inspires them to feel like they can make a difference, too.” 

This Queensland teacher’s story highlights the profound impact teachers can have, both within and beyond the classroom, as she continues to inspire and support her students and community.

As we celebrate World Teachers’ Day on October 25, her story serves as a reminder of the incredible difference educators make every day.

For more on World Teachers' Day, click here.