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Empowering Girls Through Early Years Education: A Spotlight on Hayley Sherrington
On International Women’s Day this year, we celebrate the incredible women shaping our future—those who are not only excelling in their fields but also paving the way for the next generation of leaders. One such woman is Hayley Sherrington, a dedicated early years educator at St Brigid’s College. With a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of young learners, Hayley embodies the values of empowerment, resilience, and community that are so important for young girls today.
A Lifelong Connection to St Brigid’s College
Hayley’s journey at St Brigid’s College is both personal and professional. She was a student at St Brigid’s from Kindergarten through Year 7, before continuing her studies at Penhros College, upon her finishing her primary years at St Brigid’s College, Hayley was also the very honoured recipient of the Principal’s Award. From the very beginning, St Brigid’s became a place where Hayley developed a strong sense of belonging and connection to the community. Her love for the school and its values has come full circle, as she now teaches the next generation of students at the very same institution that shaped her.
Her passion for education was sparked during her time at St Brigid’s, where she was deeply inspired by her Year 6 teacher, Tanya Kazakoff. Hayley credits Tanya for having the biggest impact on her, igniting her desire to become a teacher. It was this inspiration that led her to pursue a career in education, first as a teaching assistant and later as a qualified teacher and returning to St Brigid’s to teach.
A Vocation, Not Just a Job
For Hayley, teaching is more than just a career—it’s a calling. She says, “The biggest draw for me is to make an impact on the younger generation. It’s not just a job to me; it’s a vocation and it’s more than a job.” This deep sense of purpose drives Hayley every day, as she works with young learners to nurture their growth and development.
Through her Postgraduate studies in Early Years Education, Hayley has honed her skills and knowledge, particularly focusing on empowering young girls. She believes that empowering girls in the classroom begins with fostering confidence, curiosity, and a sense of belonging in the early years. By encouraging a growth mindset, Hayley helps her students embrace challenges and learn from their mistakes. “Praising effort, normalising mistakes, and promoting resilience” are key elements in her teaching philosophy. These practices help build a strong foundation of self-belief that young girls can carry with them throughout their lives.
Nurturing Confidence and Independence
In the classroom, Hayley places a strong emphasis on creating leadership and decision-making opportunities for her students. Whether through rotating classroom jobs or encouraging children to voice their ideas, she provides them with the tools to build confidence and independence. “By nurturing these qualities, girls feel capable, valued, and free to express themselves in all areas of learning,” Hayley explains.
Her approach is also rooted in the values of Mercy, which have shaped her as both a teacher and a person. The Mercy values emphasize compassion, justice, and service to others—values that are evident in the way Hayley builds relationships with her students. “The main thing for me is to build relationships with the kids and to have love, gentleness, and be super positive,” Hayley shares. It’s this warmth and positivity that help her students feel safe and supported in the classroom.
Giving Back to the Community
Hayley’s connection to the St Brigid’s College community is deepened by her involvement in local activities. She has been an active member of the Lesmurdie Legends swimming club, furthering her sense of belonging and community spirit. For Hayley, being part of the St Brigid’s community isn’t just about her professional role; it’s about giving back to the place that gave her so much.
The Power of Diverse Role Models
One of Hayley’s most powerful tools for empowering young girls is the use of diverse role models in the classroom. She believes that seeing strong women from different fields—through books, visuals, and real-life examples—helps broaden her students’ aspirations and gives them the confidence to pursue their dreams. This approach not only nurtures a sense of possibility but also promotes inclusivity and respect for all genders and backgrounds.
In this way, Hayley is helping to create a classroom environment where young girls can thrive. By nurturing their confidence, encouraging their curiosity, and providing them with leadership opportunities, she is setting the stage for them to become the strong, empowered women of tomorrow.
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