This Is Why I Teach

I don’t teach for certificates. I don’t teach to tick boxes. I don’t teach so that someone can simply add “Degree” to their résumé.

I teach because teaching changes lives.

Every time a student tells me I gave them confidence, showed them possibility, or made them believe in themselves again, that is why I teach.

Teaching is not about rules. It’s about real-world growth. It’s not about ticking boxes. It’s about building confidence. It’s not about assessments. It’s about outcomes that change lives.

The Words That Remind Me Why

These words are not from long ago. They are from my most recent TAFE students—a cohort I had the privilege of walking alongside for months. Sadly, due to funding cuts, I could not finish the journey with them. But I hold hope that the influence I’ve had will carry them forward to complete their degree and beyond.

Sarah shared with me:

“You are an inspiration and a supportive force of nature… I’ve enjoyed every moment of your infectious educator energy. You’re a rockstar."

Kellie wrote:

“You've been fantastic to learn from and have made this degree a really positive and rewarding experience for me, both professionally and personally.”

Kylie shared:

“Your input has had a lasting impact on both my learning and my confidence moving forward.”

Jenny confessed:

“The confidence you gave me in your feedback made me pursue a new career path. Thank you for being an amazing role model for what a leader and teacher should be.”

Bailee said:

“I don't think I would have made it this far without you. I’ve gained so much knowledge and confidence thanks to your guidance. You get a billion stars of recommendation from me.”

Zeeshan added:

“Your guidance, patience, and encouragement made a real difference in my learning journey. You are truly a great coach, and your passion for teaching will always be remembered.”

Sindy reflected:

“Her support went well beyond just grading and showed a real commitment to my growth. Mentors like Janette inspire confidence and make learning truly meaningful.”

Twyan summed it up:

“Your engaging approach to imparting knowledge of subjects that you clearly are passionate about has delivered many valuable lessons to me as I continually seek to develop as a professional and leader. It’s not bye, but see you next time.”

And Alyssa shared simply but powerfully:

“Thank you, Janette, for your classes and for sharing your knowledge. I truly learnt a lot from you and all the experience you brought.”

These aren’t just quotes. They’re reminders. Proof that teaching isn’t measured in grades or units—it’s measured in impact, in confidence, in belief.

More Than a Degree

Education is not about a piece of paper. It’s about power. The power to believe. The power to grow. The power to step into something bigger.

Teaching isn’t about passing or failing—it’s about becoming. It’s about transformation. It’s about lighting fires that will burn long after the classroom is over.

The Legacy of Teaching

So no—I don’t teach to hand out degrees. I teach to build futures. I teach to light fires. I teach to change lives.

And every life I help change also changes mine. Every thank you, every story of growth, every moment of courage—those are the moments that remind me I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.

This is my why. This is my legacy. This is why I teach.

And it’s why I will never stop loving it.