Teacher Spotlight: When the Student Becomes the Teacher– Karen McIntosh

Monday, 12 August 2024

Karen's journey into teaching started when she was studying childcare. During her practical placement at a local Special School, she discovered her passion for working with students with disabilities. “I loved the placement,” she recalls. “When the opportunity arose a few years later to work there, I applied for an Education Support (ES) role and was successful.” For seven years, she worked with students aged 5-21 who had a wide range of physical disabilities and needs. 

When her family settled in Wodonga, she returned to the local special school, where she spent over nine years as an in-class ES, as well as leadership and mentoring roles. This experience laid the groundwork for her transition to a TAFE teacher, driven by a desire to share her knowledge with those aspiring to support children in their learning journeys.

What does Karen love most about teaching? “The best bit for me is when a student has an ‘ahh ha’ moment about a topic that is new to them, or that they now think of in a different way.” she shares. The subjects covered in the Certificate IV in School Based Education Support encourages students to reflect on their beliefs and views and to seek different perspectives. Her favourite part of working with students is their eagerness to learn and their commitment to making a difference in children’s lives.

For those considering a career in education, Karen's advice is clear: “Come and study with us! As a TAFE student, you can see in action in a real classroom what you are learning at TAFE during the course and during placement.” She also suggests volunteering at your local school to gain firsthand experience in an Education Support role. For those worried about the demands of study, she underscores the importance of time management and self-care. “Make sure you are a little ‘selfish’ and set time aside each day or week as it suits you to read the coursework and work on assessments,” she advises. “Make sure you use Wodonga TAFE support services that are available as these will reduce any stress you may have about study.”

Karen's educational philosophy is simple: “You go to school to learn, not to know. If you already knew, you wouldn’t have to come.” This mantra reassures both adult learners and children that it’s okay not to have all the answers and that the purpose of education is to learn and grow. Inspiration for Karen comes from individuals who set and work towards long-term goals. “I am inspired by anyone who sets a goal and works towards it. Especially a long-term goal that has to be slowly worked towards with steps to achieve. This then means the effort to get there has been made, and the satisfaction from reaching the goal deserved.”

Prospective students should choose Wodonga TAFE for the personalised support and real-world experience it offers. “The teachers are from the industry they teach and have lived experience and knowledge of the units for the course. This brings real-life examples and experiences to the workshops and is a link between the student and the teacher,” Karen explains.

Considering a career in Education Support? Take a look at our 2025 course guide and consider making an appointment with our in-house career advisor.