Jeanette Brown was lost for words when she learned she had been named Australian Teacher Aide of the Year.
She admits she was surprised and more than a little humbled.
“I was quite emotional, really. I don’t look at it as a job, I just do what I do. You do what’s best for the kids and for the teachers. It’s a combined thing. I suppose I’m a bit speechless, and that doesn’t happen very often,” she laughed.
Jeanette, known to many at Gosnells Primary School simply as Jenny, has been part of the school community for more than 26 years. Her career started the same way many do in schools; as a mum lending a hand in the classroom.
“My kids came to school here and I started helping in pre-primary. I loved working with the kids and just never stopped. I went back to uni, did the courses, and in 1999 started as an education assistant here. I left for a year, but came back and I’ve never had to leave,” she said.
Jeanette explained that it had always been about making a difference for her.
“What’s kept me going is seeing kids learn, especially those from difficult or trauma backgrounds. When you see them change and grow, there’s really no better feeling than that. And it’s not only about the kids; it’s about the teachers too. Teaching is not an easy gig, and if I can make a difference for them, then that helps the kids too.”
The role of an education assistant has changed over the years, and Jeanette has worked to make sure her colleagues keep up with those changes.
“Years ago, it was more of a cut and paste job. Now we’re teaching alongside teachers. I’ve always wanted EAs to be the best they can be, for the kids and for the teachers. You’ve got to give them opportunities to learn and upskill, because that makes the whole team stronger,” she said.
Jeanette believes Education Assistants are to the whole school. “They make a big difference, not only to the children they support, but also to the teachers. They actually make a difference,” she said.
According to Jeanette, a rewarding moment in her career is about one child in particular that she will never forget.
“It was really hard with that one child, but in the end, after a year, to see the change was incredible. To know you’ve made that kind of difference, that’s the most rewarding thing.”
She has been overwhelmed by the response to the award.
“I’ve been gobsmacked by the number of messages and flowers and phone calls, even from people I haven’t seen in years. I suppose you don’t often think about the impact you’ve had until something like this happens. It’s been very humbling.”
Deputy Principal Michael Everett said the recognition was richly deserved.
“Jenny Brown is the heart and soul of Gosnells Primary School. She has worked tirelessly to give back to the community over so many years, and it’s nice for her to finally be recognised. She goes above and beyond, always saying nothing’s too hard, I’ll sort it. She just does. She’s one of a kind and we are very lucky to have her,” he said.
Jeanette noted the award is not just for her but for the whole team, while acknowledging everyone’s effort.
“You’re only as good as your team, and I’ve been lucky to work with a great group of EAs. Whatever it is, we all do it together. I don’t like being in the limelight, but I hope people just remember me as someone who tried to make a difference.”
