Turning a passion for sport into a purpose-driven teaching career

Luke is studying a Master of Teaching (Secondary) and brings his passion for sport and leadership into the classroom.

Growing up in Kempsey on the Mid North Coast, surrounded by three younger brothers, sport was always a central part of life for Luke. Whether on the soccer field, at athletics, or playing touch football, he was always on the move. That passion for movement has followed him into adulthood, where he now spends his spare time training at the gym, running half marathons, and preparing for his first full marathon in 2025 since relocating to Newcastle.

After completing a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of New England (Armidale), he worked across a range of roles—from strength and conditioning coaching for a representative rugby league and soccer team to lifeguarding and swim coaching. But it was the influence of his parents, both tireless workers, and his teaching-focused family—including two younger brothers and an aunty—that inspired him to pursue a postgraduate degree in teaching at the University of Newcastle.

“Working as a teacher is something I am very excited about”, explains Luke, “specifically within the PDHPE sector which is my area of expertise that I am keen to share knowledge with the students”.

Now undertaking a Master of Teaching (Secondary), he’s found the flexibility and support of the program key to balancing life’s unpredictability. Luke credits his lecturers for providing guidance and encouragement, while professional placements have offered valuable hands-on experience.

“I’ve made some great friends in the course and really appreciated the practicum opportunities—they helped build my confidence and connect me with others specialising in the same area.”

Though life outside study hasn’t slowed down, he credits time management and consistency as his biggest strengths. “It’s easy to let things pile up, but I’ve learned that staying on top of tasks weekly makes the workload manageable.”

Looking ahead, Luke is excited to bring his energy, sporting background, and leadership into the classroom. “There’s something really powerful about helping students build confidence and pursue their goals. That’s the kind of impact I want to make.”

For him, teaching is more than a career—it’s a way to give back to the community and help shape the future.

Luke

Luke is studying a Master of Teaching (Secondary) and brings his passion for sport and leadership into the classroom.

Working as a teacher is something I am very excited about...I am keen to share knowledge with the students.