Grant Jon Lowien

After more than three decades working in Defence and corrective services, Grant Lowien wasn't finished helping others learn, grow and reach their potential.

Now studying a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) at the University of Newcastle, Grant is drawing on the skills and experiences of his previous careers as he works towards becoming a teacher.

“I have always enjoyed training and educating people and gained immense satisfaction from watching individuals develop, grow, and achieve their potential,” Grant says.

Before starting university, Grant met a primary school teacher who encouraged him to explore teaching as a career. As he learnt more about the profession, he became drawn to the influence teachers can have on young people.

“As I looked further into the profession, I became increasingly interested in the positive impact teachers have on young people's lives and the significant influence that both primary and secondary school teachers can have on their students' development, education, and future success.”

After a long professional career, stepping into higher education brought some uncertainty for Grant.

“As a mature-age student, I was initially apprehensive about taking the step from a professional career into higher education,” he says.

But Grant soon began to recognise how the skills developed throughout his career could support him at university.

“The resilience, commitment, time management, and determination that Defence instilled in me have been instrumental in my academic success,” Grant says.

University also became an important part of navigating this new chapter.

“I found that study helped me through this transition as it gave back my sense of purpose,” he shares.

“My experience at university has been overwhelmingly positive and has provided me with the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. It has also helped me transition from one life of service to another.”

One of the highlights of Grant’s university experience has been the relationships he has developed with his fellow students.

“I found the younger students to be warm, welcoming, and always willing to help and support one another in achieving their academic goals,” he says.

Grant says sharing his previous experiences has also helped him connect with his classmates and contribute to a supportive learning environment.

Throughout his degree, Grant has been developing a deeper understanding of how students learn and the teaching practices that can support them.

“Through my coursework and practical experiences, I have gained valuable insights into the diverse ways students engage with learning and the factors that influence their educational development,” he says.

Grant has also made use of support available at the University, particularly Peer Study Support.

“In particular, I have found the university's Peer Study Support Program to be extremely beneficial. It has helped me develop a greater understanding of my course content while also improving my academic writing skills,” he says.

Outside university, Grant continues to spend much of his time supporting others. During rugby league season, he volunteers as a Junior Rugby League Coach for the Morpeth Bulls Under 14 Women's Team. He also works as a swim instructor for the NSW Department of Education's School Swimming and Water Safety Program and is actively involved with the RSL and other ex-service organisations supporting veterans and their families.

For Grant, one of the most exciting parts of becoming a secondary teacher is the opportunity to have a positive influence on young people.

“Equally important is the opportunity to help students discover their passions, identify what motivates them, and encourage them to pursue their goals with confidence and determination.”

Grant also reflects on the teachers who influenced his own life and helped him achieve his goals.

“Their guidance, encouragement, and belief in my abilities had a lasting impact on me.”

After graduating, Grant hopes to secure a secondary teaching position and build his experience in the classroom. Longer term, he plans to return to university to complete a master's degree in education and work towards becoming a Deputy Principal.

For Grant, teaching represents an opportunity to take the skills and values developed throughout his career and apply them to a new way of serving his community.

“While my service in the military focused on serving my country, my future career in education will allow me to continue serving my community by supporting, guiding, and inspiring the next generation.”

I found that study helped me through this transition as it gave me back my sense of purpose.