Fee Schedule
Latest News
There is something pretty special about seeing former students return to the classroom — especially when they are stepping into the very career they once dreamed about pursuing.
For Ella Ward (Class of 2023), that full-circle moment unfolded at Calrossy recently as she completed her teaching placement alongside Head of Science, Mary Koch, and Head of TAS, Bart Leach.
Now in her third year at the University of New England studying a Bachelor of Secondary STEM Education, Ella recently returned to the School community that first inspired her love of teaching, science and agriculture.
Originally from Kentucky, near Uralla, Ella was a boarder during her time at Calrossy and achieved outstanding academic success, including placing first in the State in Primary Industries in the 2023 HSC.
In her graduating year, Ella named boarding life and “Bio classes with Kochy” among her favourite memories at Calrossy — making her return to the Science faculty feel particularly fitting.
“One of the most rewarding parts of teaching is seeing former students come full circle. Having known Ella as a conscientious and hardworking student, it has been wonderful to watch her return to Calrossy as a student teacher, bringing enthusiasm, care and professionalism to the classroom. Seeing Ella develop confidence and begin shaping young minds of her own has been both meaningful and inspiring,” said Mary Koch.
“I have always enjoyed science, particularly Biology and Agriculture, and have always been passionate about education and sharing knowledge,” Ella said.
“Bart and Kochy definitely had a lasting impact and were a massive inspiration for me.”
Returning to the Cowper Campus brought with it a mixture of nostalgia and excitement.
“Returning to Calrossy was surreal,” she said.
“Many aspects have changed but others have stayed the same, making it feel slightly ‘normal’ to return.”
Ella said she had enjoyed seeing the growth of the campus since graduating, including additional buildings and resources, while also reconnecting with familiar staff and classrooms.
Now experiencing life from the front of the classroom, Ella said one of the most rewarding aspects of placement had been helping students build confidence in their learning.
“Being able to teach students and see the pride they get when they understand new content is my favourite part of placement,” she said.
The experience has also given her a new appreciation for the work teachers do behind the scenes each day.
“I definitely underestimated how organised teachers need to be, and their ability to change their teaching strategies and methods to best suit each class,” she said.
Ella said she had certainly considered one day returning to Calrossy as a teacher in the future.
“I have definitely considered one day returning to Calrossy as a teacher,” she said.
While she is still early in her teaching journey, Ella said her hopes for the future remain simple — to find a supportive school community and make a meaningful difference in students’ lives.
“To find a supportive school with students excited to learn, and to leave a lasting positive impact on students.”
Ella’s story is a wonderful reminder of the lasting influence teachers can have on their students — and how those same students sometimes return to inspire the next generation themselves.
