Five Minutes with Ms Renée Simpfendorfer
At Radford College, Godly Play lessons provide Junior School students with a unique opportunity to explore Bible stories, reflect on their meaning and connect these teachings to their own lives. We spoke with Ms Renée Simpfendorfer, a dedicated Godly Play Teacher, about her journey from pharmacy to education, her faith and what makes her role so fulfilling.
What do you find most fulfilling about your role as a Godly Play Teacher at Radford College?
I love telling Bible stories using the beautiful materials and resources, and ‘wondering’ about the stories with the students. It’s deeply rewarding to see them make connections in their learning, and I am often inspired by their insights and perspectives. I also enjoy collaborating with the Junior School teachers and have learnt a great deal from them.
Having pursued a Master of Education and Theology at Australian Lutheran College to study Godly Play, could you elaborate on what this method entails and how it helps young students understand Christianity?
Godly Play is based on a Montessori approach and nurtures children’s spiritual development by giving them the language of the Christian tradition to make sense of life. Students and teachers sit together in a circle in a sacred space. The storyteller presents Bible stories using spoken words and natural materials, like wood and felt. Students then respond through ‘wondering’ questions and creative activities. The process is calm and ordered, with moments for silence, stillness and reflection.
You have been a member of the Lutheran Church from a young age. What inspired your faith?
I was baptised as a baby and grew up in a Christian environment. My faith has evolved over time, influenced by family, friends, teachers, youth leaders and authors. My grandmother has been a particularly significant influence; she models gratitude, curiosity, acts of kindness and the importance of love. Over time, my faith has become less about intellectual assent and more about a way of being – being aware of God’s presence and attentive to the Spirit’s guidance.
Prior to your career in education, you practised as a pharmacist for nearly a decade. What prompted your transition to teaching, and do you ever miss pharmacy?
Pharmacy was a diverse and enjoyable career, including a chance to live and work in the UK. Most of my experience was in hospital pharmacy, where I particularly enjoyed teaching and supervising students on practical placements. This sparked my interest in moving into teaching. I wanted to try primary school teaching to integrate my passions – not just science, but also music and literature – into my career. I occasionally miss pharmacy, but helping family and friends manage medications keeps my skills up-to-date. Many aspects I enjoyed in pharmacy – building relationships, teamwork, learning and serving others – are also central to teaching.
Have you ever considered pursuing chaplaincy or another role in the church?
I am very happy and fulfilled as a teacher. I volunteer in my local church through activities like playing piano and chairing the Worship Committee, but I haven’t considered becoming a chaplain or minister. Part of this may be because only men could be ordained in the Lutheran Church of Australia up until last year.
People would be surprised to know that…
I met the Queen at a tea party in the gardens of Buckingham Palace.