Public Education

Hansard ID: HANSARD-1323879322-150930

Hansard session: Fifty-Eighth Parliament, First Session (58-1)

Public Education

Mr TIM CRAKANTHORP (Newcastle) (15:00:51):

I move:

That this House:

(1)Notes that students across Newcastle have returned to school for term 1.

(2)Wishes all students and teachers a happy and successful 2025 school year.

(3) Commends the Government's ongoing commitment to rebuild public education in New South Wales, including rolling out explicit teaching, reducing teacher vacancies, and building new and upgraded schools.

Mr MARK COURE (Oatley) (15:27:41):

I thank the member for Newcastle for moving the motion today. It is a pleasure to talk about something that is very close to my heart: teachers and education. Education is the foundation of our society, and teachers are the ones who build that foundation. They do not just teach subjects. They inspire, mentor and shape the future. For me, this is not just a general statement. It is something that I see firsthand every day. It is personal to me. My wife is a teacher, as is my mother-in-law in Lebanon. With my wife I have seen the hard work, the dedication and the passion she and all teachers bring to the classroom. Teaching is not just a profession; it is a calling. It takes a lot of patience, resilience and an incredible amount of effort to guide students and to help them grow.

I acknowledge—particularly today after a phone call I had with her—Mrs Mateski, the principal of Mortdale Public School, where my two young boys attend. We thank her for her wonderful leadership at Mortdale. We all remember at least one teacher who made a real difference in our lives. I went to St Joseph's, Oatley, and I acknowledge Mrs Flood and many other teachers who taught me during those younger years. At my high school, Marist Catholic College at Penshurst, my former high school teachers include Mrs Frino, who was my very first teacher in year 7 and who is the current school principal at Penshurst. Mrs Frino also put me on my first detention for frequently talking in class. Would you believe it, Mr Temporary Speaker?

Mr MARK COURE:

Members would not believe it. Not me—I was an angel. To Mr Bird, Mrs McMahon and Mr Kennedy, who were my English and debating teachers, I will never forget you, particularly during tough times when, at a young age in high school, I lost my mum. They are the teachers, like many others, who encouraged us when we struggled. They were the ones who believed in us when no‑one else did, or the ones who made learning enjoyable. A great teacher does not just deliver lesson; they inspire confidence. They teach valuable life skills and help students believe in their own potential. Teachers do not just prepare students for exams; they prepare them for life. They teach critical thinking, problem‑solving, teamwork and communication skills that are essential in any career and in life itself.

In a world that is constantly changing, our education system must evolve too. But one thing that remains the same is the impact of a great teacher is certainly life changing. Despite their importance, teachers often face enormous challenges. As we know, they deal with overcrowded classrooms, limited resources, increasing responsibilities. They often spend their own money on supplies. They work long hours grading papers, particularly if they teach English. They go that extra mile to ensure that every student gets the attention they need. Yet they do not always receive the recognition and support they deserve. Today I say thank you to all the teachers who made a positive impact in my life—and not just my life, the lives of every member in this Chamber. I thank all the teachers in my electorate, the schools and the principals in my electorate. A strong education really is the backbone of a successful State and nation. Schools are not just places where students memorise facts. They are environments where young minds are shaped, creativity is encouraged and lifelong skills are developed.

The question is that the motion be agreed to.

Motion agreed to.