Tania Lawrence (Hasluck, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

'It's not what we teach,' said educator Alfie Kohn. 'It's what they learn.' All over this country today, students are learning more than just the lessons from their teachers; they are learning a way of being in this world. Every time I'm called upon to perform an official role at a school in Hasluck, be it presenting an award or presenting a flag, I'm given an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the efforts and achievements not just of students but of the wonderful people who dedicate their lives to guiding young people to live their potential.

Within my own family, I see young people guided and encouraged in their creativity and their musical skills. I see their deep sense of values and their social conscience nurtured by good role models. I see children able to adapt to change and unfamiliar cultures because they've been encouraged to embrace the new and different and to push at boundaries. I see passions and dreams realised, whether it's a love for science, for dance, for therapy or for business. I see a student supported to go on to become a Doctor of Chemistry, the first PhD in the family. Great teachers have been there at every turn, and, from my family, I thank you. In January this year Education Minister Clare stated that he wanted us to acknowledge the tremendous effort and work of teachers more formally and more often. I add my voice to his.