Echuca teacher up for career achievement award

She is now in her fourth year of study at La Trobe University in Bendigo, with one placement remaining alongside her coursework to become a qualified teacher.

“When I was at school, I kind of thought to myself, and had discussions with Dad, Wade Jeffreys, as well, about what I wanted to do when I was older,” Ms Jeffreys said.

“I was in Year 11 and had to make a decision on what subjects I wanted to do.

“And I was like, if I become a teacher, I can teach anywhere.”

The decision crystallised during Year 12 when inspirational teachers motivated her career choice.

“I had a couple of teachers in Year 12, who I really loved and who really inspired me to do well in life,” she said.

“And I feel like I wanted to do that myself, moving forward with my life.”

Ms Jeffreys moved to Echuca from Melbourne around Year 9 and attended St Joseph's College Echuca.

Ms Jeffreys undertook her first teacher placement with a Year 5/6 class and “loved it”.

“I am finding the grade five-sixes really good,” Ms Jeffreys said.

“I feel like coming in as a new teacher, that was a really good level to go into, because the students can speak to you, they can relate and it is easy to make connections with them.”

The nomination came as a surprise.

“Jacob (Johnston) came to me one day, and he was like, ‘well, this is probably going to embarrass you, but we are nominating you for this’,” she said.

“I feel like, as someone who's starting as a teacher, it is just a really nice thing to be recognised for.”

Echuca Twin Rivers Primary School assistant principal Jacob Johnston identified Ms Jeffreys immediately when the nomination opportunity arose.

“When the email came across my desk, Megan was the first teacher that sprang to mind,” Mr Johnston said.

“Megan started with us about midway through last year.

“She came as a permission to teach teacher, and really just hit the ground running.”

Mr Johnston praised her work ethic and initiative.

“For someone inexperienced, new to come in, she just showed such initiative and is just ready to take things on and not complain, not worry about the small stuff and get stuck in, which is a credit to her,” he said.

The Konica Minolta Career Achievement Award recognises young Australians pursuing careers with passion and vitality, showing motivation, drive and determination in their chosen field.

Category winners receive $2000 in prizes and a trophy, with one category winner named Victorian Young Achiever of the Year.

Judging will take place on Wednesday, March 18, with the awards gala presentation dinner scheduled for Friday, May 1.

Ms Jeffreys credits the school's supportive environment for her success.

“I think Twin Rivers is a really nice school,” she said.

“It is very welcoming, inviting and everyone’s willing to help out and chip in where needed, and it is just a really supportive place.”