Olivia Neilson (She/Her) - Executive Teacher & Teacher Librarian

What excites you most about working at the Throsby school?
I am thrilled that at the Throsby school, I will be a member of a learning community focused on helping our students, staff and families to develop a love of lifelong learning through a lens of curiosity and wonder. Being part of a strong collaborative culture, where students are nurtured to grow as thinkers, collaborators, communicators, self-managers and researchers, is something that really inspires and excites me. I can’t wait to see how the learning spaces around the school evolve as the building work progresses and we get closer to opening (particularly our library!)

What inspired you to work in education?

I am passionate about equity and I believe it is vital to have a strong public education system that supports ALL students to grow and develop as future citizens. I love working with students of all ages and seeing them develop and grow as individuals; supporting them to set goals, find their way through challenges, and then celebrating their successes (large or small!) Leading and working collaboratively with colleagues and the school community is also really important to me, as we can learn so much from one another.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learnt in your career?

That school, team and classroom cultures based on a foundation of mutual trust and respectful relationships will create those safe and supportive environments that result in students achieving high learning outcomes.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
That every mistake is a learning opportunity. Without mistakes, we cannot improve and grow.