Why teaching at OneSchool Global feels like ‘utopia’ for Paula Bryden

There are different reasons why people choose a career in education. For Paula Bryden, it was a desire to be better than the experiences she had growing up as a student.

“As a child I hated school, I absolutely loathed it. The classes were boring and the teachers were mean.”

You may not expect to hear those words from someone who has spent almost 30 years as an educator, but that negative experience as a student fuelled Paula’s desire to make a positive difference in young people’s lives.

Originally from South Africa, Paula is now the Student Support Lead at OneSchool Global’s Brisbane (Australia) campus, where she has worked for the past two years. With experience at a number of learning environments in various countries, Paula understands the unique challenges teachers face better than most.

“I started my career in state schooling but then found myself working with gifted students – pushing boundaries and getting kids to do things that weren’t in the normal run of stream. I then came to OSG and discovered that the learning to learn framework encourages students to think outside the box which aligned with my teaching philosophy.”

Working with engaged students and families

Paula says the students at OSG are unique compared with other schools because of the consistent values and beliefs that start at home.

“Students at OSG are courteous, helpful and respectful, so I find you can get a lot more teaching done. It’s easier to work with students here compared to other schools I’ve worked at.”

Paula also highlights the positive teacher/parent relationships that make life easier as an educator.

“The parents are delightful. They want the best for their children and go above and beyond to help them succeed. We’re all on the same page and working together to achieve great outcomes.”

A workplace culture of support and camaraderie

OSG’s Brisbane campus offers the best workplace culture Paula has seen in a long time.

“A lot of people think teachers leave the profession because of the students, but it’s often because of the staffroom culture. The staff here all support each other, which relates closely to what we teach and how we teach it.”

Discovering teaching ‘utopia’ at OneSchool Global

For teachers considering their next move, Paula’s message is clear.

“Don’t waste your time at any other schools, just come straight here. It’s utopia for a teacher to come into this environment with our learning to learn framework that produces life-ready learners. I’ve had many different positions in Australia and this is the happy space I’ve found.”