Four new teachers have taken on the challenge of educating the young minds at Deniliquin South Public School.
Maggie Sutton, Korey Telfer, Geordie Kuzniarski and Tim Hanns are the newest members of the faculty coming from all over the world.
Maggie Sutton (23) recently completed her Bachelor of Education and has started her career at the school.
‘‘I went to South School as a student and have worked here as a teacher’s aid.
‘‘I have a lot of family here so it’s great to see them, as well as go back to the best school.’’
Miss Sutton teaches STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) to all of the classes in the school for an hour each week.
‘‘I absolutely love it here and everyone has made me feel so welcome. The environment is relaxed and also very professional.
‘‘It is a great place to start and it was good already knowing most of the students.’’
Geordie Kuzniarski (39) has moved to South after four years at Coonamble Public School.
‘‘I came here looking to be in New South Wales but close to friends and family in Victoria.
‘‘I chose South because I had heard it was a good school and had a great reputation.’’
Mr Kuzniarski acknowledged students have struggled to pronounce his name and have settled on Mr Kuz.
‘‘I have Year 2 and they are fantastic. I’m very happy to be here.’’
Mr Kuzniarski moved to Deniliquin with his wife and toddler and said he plans to send his child to South School when the time comes.
Tim Hanns (40) was a casual relief teacher last year at South and has three children who attend the school.
‘‘I have kids in K, 2 and 4 so it was only me and my kindergartener who started this year.
‘‘It’s a very positive place to work and the kids and staff are very welcoming.
‘‘I have a 5/6 split class and they are fantastic.
‘‘I’m looking forward to a really productive year and just seeing what these students will do.’’
South School also has a teacher from Canada this year after Megan Baker exchanged schools with Korey Telfer.
‘‘Megan has gone over to Canada and is teaching in my school and living in my house and I am teaching at her school and living in her house.
‘‘I was offered places in Melbourne, Adelaide and other cities but I really wanted to do something rural.
‘‘When I was a student I saw exchange teachers and thought it was a great opportunity, plus I have always enjoyed travel.
‘‘I did a teaching exchange about 20 years ago in Scotland and have always wanted to do another one. I have also taught in the Caribbean.
‘‘I have found that schools, no matter where you go, have a great atmosphere bringing together teachers and people who like to work with children.
‘‘Coming to a small town everyone is so warm and welcoming. I love that. I have landed in the right spot, I think.’’
Miss Telfer said the students have had fun with her Canadian accent and they are teaching her things about Australia.
‘‘I have a 5/6 split class and they are really good. I want to teach them about Canada and they tell me about Australia.
‘‘I enjoy seeing the different teaching practices so I can then take ideas home.
‘‘They have great programs here. I think that we are going to have an excellent year and I’m quite excited.’’