Profile: Jeremy Hawkes

What does your role involve?

As the Interdisciplinary Learning Coordinator, I have the privilege of maintaining my normal teaching roles in maths and engineering studies, plus I have the role of overseeing all interdisciplinary learning opportunities in the school.

The key features of my role are organising the curriculum and staffing for bespoke learning opportunities for students in Years 7 to 10. These programs are timed during the year to give students extended periods to complete activities that cannot occur during normal class times. The bespoke programs aim to assist students with developing their interdisciplinary knowledge and skills and learner traits.

What are the highlights of your role?

To support students to be critical and creative thinkers when they are exposed to different problems, issues, and opportunities. Some examples are seen in the following year groups:

  • Year 7: The students must create a product or activity for a stall at the Year 7 Festival.
  • Year 8: The students use Gossan Hill as a landmark to understand different perspectives and ways of thinking as they explore Indigenous learning, scientific thinking, geographical knowledge, and historical perspectives.
  • Year 9: The students continue to develop their global awareness as they explore the global refugee crisis with the Worn Soles program.
  • Year 10: Students must use data and research to make informed decisions about career options and being safe with friends.

Where were you working before you came to Radford?

Before I came to Radford, I was in the Australian Regular Army.

Can you tell us a little more about your background and the path that led you to your current role?

As a teacher of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths), I started by bringing the different disciplines together. In 2018, I took on the official role of STEM Coordinator at Radford. I was very much an advocate for the fact that STEM problems cannot not be solved with just the STEM disciplines - they require knowledge and skills from all disciplines. In 2019, I transformed the STEM role into the Interdisciplinary Learning Coordinator.

What most appealed to you about working at Radford?

The best part about working at Radford is the students’ willingness to learn. They continuously challenge assumptions to think critically and creatively about a topic.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy running, exploring new trails, and spending quality time with family and friends.

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