Mater moments

Jules burst onto the scene at Mater Christi College at the beginning of this year with her infectious level of enthusiasm, genuine caring nature, and unfailing sense of humour and fun! She hit the ground running with anOrientation Day (late last year), then the organisation and facilitation of the first day of secondary school for our Year 7s, a trip to Belgrave Pool with the new cohort, and the Year 7 Welcome Evening for families – building relationships with students and staff along the way in her own unique style.

Some may be surprised to know that Jules didn’t begin her career as a teacher. She spent many years working in industry – from being an apprentice in a shoe store to managing retail stores such as a Haagen Dasz ice cream and eventually running a pub with herhusband. At the age of 24, Jules decided to return to university as a mature-aged student to complete a Bachelor of Science. She later trained as a teacher at the University of Hertfordshire in the UK.

With a huge passion for Science,Jules says one of her greatest achievements came when, as an undergraduate, she set up a pilot study, working with Professor J Ayres in Birmingham HeartlandsHospital. Jules was the first author of the published study that she andProfessor Ayres presented in London!

Since arriving in Australia onNew Year’s Eve 2004, Jules has taught at a number of government secondary schools before landing at the doors of Mater Christi.

“It was the universe that spoke to me and lured me to this spiritual place, and here I am.”

Jules’ approach to supporting students is to listen attentively, give advice when asked, be curious and ask questions – because, she says, there are usually three sides to any story. She encourages parents to keep the lines of communication open, welcoming feedbackor a good chat.

When it comes to motivation,Jules says she is inspired by people with grit and determination, good coffee, walking in nature, seeing good triumph over evil, and, of course, Scientists!

Jules loves spending time with her family in her spare time, talking to and patting her dog, reading books and crocheting blankets for the Coldstream Animal Shelter!

We are very pleased to have Ms Colyer as part of our community!