After completing the Master of Teaching (Internship) at the Faculty of Education, Fatima Ramadan, dove headfirst into classroom life—embracing both the challenges and the “aha” moments that come with learning on the job. Now a dedicated Mathematics Teacher and MYLNS coordinator at Tarneit Senior College, Fatima is passionate about showing students the everyday relevance of Maths and celebrating those small wins that make a big difference.
What course did you study at the Faculty of Education (then MGSE)?
I studied the Master of Teaching (Secondary) Internship. It was a great blend of hands-on experience and coursework, which really helped me learn by doing. I liked that I could apply what I was learning at university directly in the classroom almost straight away.
What do you remember fondly from your time there?
I have really good memories of starting out on my teaching journey. It was exciting and nerve-wracking, but I felt supported the whole way through. The friendships, the learning, and those early “aha” teaching moments still stick with me. As intimidating as it was, I grew so much as a teacher within just the first week of working at a school.
What do you love most about your current role?
I love being able to connect with students and help them see how Maths is part of their everyday life (no matter how much they try to convince me otherwise). When a student finally gets a concept or realises Maths isn’t just numbers on a page, that's the best feeling. It’s those small wins that make it all worthwhile.
What helped you most as a graduate teacher when you first started out?
Honestly, super detailed lesson plans were a lifesaver in the beginning! I’d plan everything down to the minute, even how long to greet the class or introduce a simple topic. It might sound over-the-top, but it gave me structure and helped me feel calm and confident when everything else felt new.
What advice can you give current students about how they approach placement?
Be gentle with yourself, mistakes are part of the process, and they’re how you learn and grow. Teaching isn’t a straight path, and it takes time to find your rhythm and figure out what works for you. Every placement is a chance to learn something new, so try to reflect on your experiences rather than judge yourself too harshly. And most importantly, focus on building real connections with your students.
Everyone walks into the classroom with their own stories and struggles, when you take the time to connect, that’s when the real learning happens.
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