For Emma Cox, working at Undera Primary School means wearing plenty of different hats.
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Emma is the junior school class teacher, music teacher and also works in student wellbeing, having been part of the school community for about nine years.
She first came to the school for her final teaching rounds before taking on an education support position while finishing university.
After graduating, she was lucky enough to secure a teaching position at the school.
Emma originally worked in the senior classroom before moving into the junior room, where she has now spent about seven years.
With 11 students in her class this year, Emma enjoys the close relationships that come with teaching in a small school.
“I love it. You get to know the kids so well, and because I’ve got them for three years in there, anything that you want to ask me about those kids, I just know straight away,” she said.
The junior students learn the usual English and maths, along with integrated inquiry sessions covering areas such as science and geography.
This year they have been learning about space and taking part in a weekly online program through the Bendigo Discovery Centre, where small schools can connect with scientists and complete experiments using resources provided for the lessons.
Emma also brings her love of music into the school.
Music has always been a big part of her life, with her parents and grandparents all involved in music too.
Emma chose to learn the flute as a child and now plays with the Rushworth and District Concert Band.
This year she has introduced flute to the senior students, giving them the opportunity to have a go without any pressure.
“I want it to be something that they enjoy,” she said.
Emma also teaches the junior students through singing, rhythm and percussion instruments, with the school’s Christmas concert providing a chance to showcase what they have learnt.
Her wellbeing role focuses on supporting students with their mental health and helping the school respond to their individual needs.
Recently, students have been using morning check-ins on their iPads, allowing Emma and staff to identify how they are feeling and look at ways to support them.
For Emma, however, it is the relationships with students and families that make the school special.
“I think it’s the kids. The kids and the families. You get to know everyone,” she said.
As the school celebrates its 150th anniversary, Emma said it was exciting to see former students and staff taking an interest in the milestone and sharing their memories.
Emma Cox wears many hats at Undera Primary School, teaching the junior class, music and wellbeing.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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