Briohny Jones is one of our most northern based teachers. She is a passionate educator based on Thursday Island and Hammond Island at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School.

With seven years in the field, Briohny is driven by a sense of purpose to help others, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

“My Aunty Betty inspired me to become a teacher,” she explains.

“We both share a passion and dedication in teaching Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and a commitment to improving Indigenous student outcomes.

“I’ve always wanted to help others,” Briohny says.

“Teaching aligns perfectly with that goal. If not for this, I’d be in another field focused on helping others.”

“I have always believed that teaching is a career that makes a difference. Every day is different, and it is a privilege to play an important role in so many people’s lives.”

Central to her teaching philosophy is the transformative power of reading.

“I’m passionate about teaching kids how to read and sharing the power of reading,” she emphasises, adding, “Reading opens up avenues of knowledge and possibilities in our
communities and our world.

“You can learn anything you want to know about through reading.

“Dr. Seuss said it best: ‘The more you read, the more places you’ll go.’”

Recalling the defining moments in her career, Briohny holds those ‘light-bulb’ moments with students as the most rewarding.

“Witnessing a student grasp a concept, that ‘ah ha’ moment when they move from remembering to understanding, is truly fulfilling,” she says.

Briohny’s passion extends beyond the classroom, particularly for Indigenous student success. Looking ahead, she anticipates a brighter future for education.

“I am excited to see and hear more schools begin their journey into the science of reading and how this changes our literacy instruction and approach,” she shares.

“The integration of AI-powered tools and blended learning holds tremendous potential.”
Her excitement also encompasses global collaboration.

“Post-COVID, learning could benefit from worldwide partnerships,” she envisions. “Imagine sharing ideas and projects with schools across the state, country and globe. The future of education is interconnected.”

To aspiring teachers, Briohny offers pragmatic advice.

“Forge strong connections with parents and guardians,” she suggests, emphasising teamwork.

“And celebrate every win. Even the small achievements of your students and yourself along the way.”

Read more teacher profiles on the World Teachers’ Day website.