Liliane Yacoub, Instructional Specialist at St Michael’s Primary School, Belfield, NSW, brings over 20 years of teaching experience and a passion for Catholic education. Inspired by the nurturing guidance she received as a child, she strives to create a supportive, faith-filled environment where students grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually.
For Liliane, teaching in a Catholic school is a vocation. Guided by her faith, she fosters learning, confidence, and character, helping students thrive while contributing to a strong, inclusive school community.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I had thoroughly enjoyed my primary education experience and I knew I always wanted to work with young children. I was incredibly fortunate to be guided by gentle, nurturing teachers who made my primary years pleasant and memorable. Their unwavering support and belief in my potential left a lasting impression, shaping both my academic journey and my personal values. Often when you have positive experiences you want to ensure that others experience the same. This ultimately inspired my decision to pursue a career in education.
What first inspired your love for teaching, and how has that passion shaped the way you motivate and support your students today?
I’ve always been drawn to the social nature of teaching, the joy of collaborating with colleagues, exchanging ideas, and learning from exceptional practitioners. These shared experiences have continually inspired me to work hard and refine my practice, always striving to deliver the curriculum in ways that engage, challenge, and uplift my students. At its core, teaching is a collective endeavour. It’s about working together to help young learners access the curriculum and make sense of the world around them. When we embrace the power of collaboration, we unlock new possibilities—not just for our students, but for ourselves as educators. With a shared vision and a united effort, what once seemed impossible becomes entirely achievable.
Can you share a moment in your career where you really felt you made a difference?
In 2022, I joined my current school as a literacy and numeracy intervention teacher, supporting students in developing their foundational skills in English and Mathematics. My role focused on identifying learning gaps and providing targeted instruction to help students build confidence and competence in these key areas.
One of the most rewarding experiences was working closely with a group of Year 1 students who began the year with limited reading and writing skills. We focused on phonics, decoding strategies, and building vocabulary through consistent, structured support. By the end of the first semester, I witnessed a remarkable transformation. I still remember the moment one of my students proudly read aloud to his class teacher. It was a powerful reminder of how far he had come. Moments like these reaffirm why I teach. Seeing students apply the skills they’ve worked so hard to master, and watching them take ownership of their learning, is truly extraordinary.
This inspired me to introduce holiday reading challenges across the school, encouraging students to participate in a variety of engaging activities that exposed them to a wide range of texts. The students have embraced these challenges with enthusiasm, often sharing the insights and new learnings they’ve gained through their reading. Both parents and students have expressed their appreciation, with many regularly checking in to see if a new challenge will be available for the upcoming school holidays.
How does your faith shape your teaching approach?
My faith is my anchor, it sits at the heart of everything I do. It guides my decision-making and offers strength as I pray over both the big and small moments in life. I feel deeply blessed to work within an organisation founded on Catholic faith and values, where we look to Christ as our teacher and guide. Sharing my love and knowledge of Christ with the students I teach is a true privilege. I believe my faith inspires me to give my very best in the classroom. Just as we encourage our students to let their light shine, we as educators must do the same, leading with purpose, compassion, and conviction.
What’s the most rewarding part of teaching in a Catholic school?
The most rewarding part of working in a Catholic school is the sense of belonging and community. Working full-time and raising a family of my own can present its challenges but doing in an environment where people are working together for a common purpose makes it all worthwhile. Being part of a school Catholic community is quite special and often your presence at both school and parish events is deeply appreciated by the community. Connecting with parents, students, staff, and other members of the community is central to our vocation, and investing in these relationships helps foster trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the growth and wellbeing of every child.
What do you think is the most valuable role Catholic education plays in today’s society?
I believe Catholic education has the power to profoundly shape a child’s life. Learning Catholic values and Christian teachings can be truly transformative, offering a moral compass and a sense of purpose that stays with them well beyond the classroom. More than ever, families are seeking schools that offer a holistic education. Places where children are challenged academically, supported emotionally, inspired creatively, and nurtured spiritually. Catholic schools provide this balance, cultivating not only knowledge but character, compassion, and faith.