Chalking up 30 years

By Bridget Cook
A LOVE of theatre, performance and media led Casey councillor Wayne Smith to become a school teacher.
And his decision to be a ‘technician’ in the industry rather than a performer is one he has never regretted after he celebrated 30 years in teaching this month.
The Fountain Gate Secondary College teacher wanted to be a teacher at the age of 15 after being inspired by teachers he had at Dandenong High School.
After graduating from teachers’ college, specialising in film, television and photography, Cr Smith worked at a number of schools including one in Canberra and at St Francis Xavier College, Beaconsfield.
He has also worked with students with behavioural difficulties at Myuna Farm and in the adolescent psychiatry unit at Monash Medical Centre.
He started at Fountain Gate in 2001 and has been there ever since.
“It’s my longest stint at any school,” he said.
Cr Smith is the Community Links co-ordinator, which involves being the mentor for the student leaders and to promote the school to local schools and the community.
Cr Smith said his role as the Community Links co-ordinator was what he enjoyed most about his job.
“It’s great working with the leaders, and also to identify kids with potential to be leaders and then helping them turn into good ones,” he said.
He has also been involved with many other extra-curricular activities including camps, school productions and the annual talent quest night.
“You have to be a good teacher to survive as one, but you have to be involved with activities outside of the classroom,” he said.
Cr Smith said he had built some great friendships with students and their families while during his time as a teacher.
“It’s great to build friendships and show interest in the students, but also they know they can’t cross the line and that I’m a responsible adult,” he said.
“I have photographed more than 30 ex-students’ weddings and many students and families still keep in touch.”
Cr Smith said while at times it could be difficult juggling his roles as a teacher and a Casey councillor, the dual role only benefited him.
“I involve the students and leaders with my duties,” he said.
“When I have a function I have to attend I usually take along the school captains.
“The students always come to me with ideas and ask for contacts and families also contact me with problems.
“While I sometimes have to leave early for functions or meetings, the school is very supportive and see the benefits for them with me having the dual role.”
Fountain Gate Secondary College Vice Captain Brodie Ryan said Mr Smith was an amazing teacher.
“He is one of those teachers that you don’t always see as one, but at times a friend,” she said.
“He is a great role model … he has helped me so much with my public speaking and confidence.”