Junior School Teacher, Mrs Sharon Murphy, discusses her passions – from students, to stories, to snakes!

WHAT DO YOU WANT STUDENTS TO TAKE AWAY FROM A YEAR IN YOUR CLASS?
After a year of Pre-kindergarten, I hope children discover that school is a joyful, welcoming place where they truly belong. As their first teacher, my goal is for each child to feel excited to walk in each morning, proudly wearing their uniform and happily waving their family goodbye. At just three years old, meaningful play becomes the foundation of their learning journey, and I want these young children to feel safe, happy and eager to explore. Most of all, I hope my students remember a year of laughter, joy and shared wonder as we learn and grow together.

WHY DID YOU WANT TO BE AN EDUCATOR?
I have always wanted to be a teacher. As a young girl, I would line up my toys and role-play school, absorbed in the joy of teaching. That passion never faded. From the moment I stepped into a primary school for my first work experience, I felt energised and purposeful. I hope the Wesley community feels the warmth, intentionality and genuine connection at the heart of my teaching. Relationships are paramount: with the children I nurture each day, the parents who place their trust in us, the colleagues who support and strengthen me, and the past students who stay connected long after they leave my classroom.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT AT WESLEY?
I enjoy the rhythm of my part-time teaching role. Morning tea with my parents has become a cherished weekly ritual, bringing both comfort and connection. I value time to read and the occasional afternoon nap, a simple way to recharge and enjoy a quiet day. Home life is full and lively. I share it with my husband, our four children aged 16 to 21, a tank of fish, a Burmilla cat named Yuki and a Stimson python called Stanley.

WHAT HOBBY OR INTEREST OUTSIDE SCHOOL SAYS THE MOST ABOUT WHO YOU ARE?
Reading says the most about who I am. I adore children’s literature and have built a personal collection of books that spark conversation, bring joy and help young readers make sense of their world. As an adult, I still read every night. It is a way to slow down, shift my thinking and reconnect with something that has always brought me comfort and delight.

This article was originally published in the Winter 2026 edition of The Wesleyan. To read more, click here.