Dr Aaron Floyed
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Being in the classroom teaching. It has been nice to come into Avila and be able to focus on the teaching side of the job and have classrooms where teaching can be fun, exciting and rewarding for everyone and respect is a given not just something that is often spoken about but not seen.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Shared Year 10 homeroom in the morning at the start of the day is a great way to connect and start the day. Then it is off to teach either physics or biology to Year 9/10’s, VCE biology to Year 11’s and 12’s or VCE General Mathematics. Interspersed with yard duties which are a good way of connecting with students outside the classroom. Then there is normally some sort of collaboration time with colleagues either developing new or improving current content for various classes.
Most rewarding aspect of working at Avila?
The self drive of students to do well in whatever they choose to do. There is nothing better than forming connections between students and being able to support them in their learning and then watching those light bulb moments occur when everything just clicks into place and they get those tricky concepts you are trying to teach them.
Why did you choose to work in Catholic education?
I went through the Catholic system in the 90’s and after a long stint at University and a couple of career changes, I wanted to get back into teaching. I started teaching in the State system and spent a number of years as a Head of House before coming to Avila. The sense of community and belonging along with a shared faith and support network were what drew me back into Catholic education in the end.
What makes Avila College a great learning community?
The sense of community here is excellent. Everyone looks out for each other and the support network is excellent not only for students but also teaching staff. Everything the school does is underpinned by its core principles of faith and compassion, not just for the staff, but the students as well.