Guiding and Nurturing Growth through STEM
Read more about Elise and her journey with ToSI: at: https://www.indigenous.gov.au/stories/elise-thornthwaite-guiding-and-nurturing-growth-through-stem
Elise Thornthwaite is a Gamilaraay woman living and working as a primary school teacher on Maung Country in the NT.
Elise was supported in her study to complete a Masters of Teaching through the Teachers of STEM Initiative.
Elise first started teaching in her hometown in regional NSW, then worked in rural central west NSW, and is now teaching on a remote island in Arnhem Land.
‘I realised I wanted to be a teacher when I discovered my passion for helping young children grasp concepts and make understandings of the world around them,’ Elise said.
Elise was inspired by the connections she made through the Teachers of STEM Initiative.
‘Meeting other passionate and deadly educators who fuelled my teaching journey was the greatest benefit. Their insights and dedication have been instrumental in shaping my approach to STEM education,’ Elise said.
Elise believes that it is crucial for First Nations women and children to learn STEM as it empowers them with skills for the future.
‘STEM education opens doors to opportunities, self-reliance, and innovative problem-solving. It fosters self-esteem, bridges inequalities, and helps build a brighter, more inclusive future for Indigenous communities,’ Elise said.
Being inspired by her young student’s curiosity and enthusiasm, is what drives Elise to teach. She gets great satisfaction from being a part of their educational development.
‘Witnessing those moments and seeing the joy in their faces when they learn something new is incredibly fulfilling for me. It’s a rewarding journey to guide and nurture their growth,’ Elise said.
Seeing her students faces light up with happiness when they learn and achieve will continue to remind Elise why she loves teaching.
We still have places available in the Teachers of STEM Initiative. To find out more, visit our website or Contact Us for more details.
