Michael O’Shea never experienced what it was like to have a First Nations teacher during his school years. The University of the Sunshine Coast graduate and proud Yuggera man is on a mission to help change that.
“It is important to have Indigenous educators in classrooms as it provides students with diverse role models and challenges stereotypes about who can be a teacher,” says Michael, who is teaching Year 6 at Hervey Bay’s Yarrilee State School after recently completing a Bachelor of Primary Education at UniSC’s Fraser Coast campus.
Michael knows he is a rarity, with the latest workforce data continuing to highlight a chronic shortage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teachers, especially young Indigenous men.
“By stepping into this role, I know I am helping to close equity gaps and inspire the next generation to see themselves as leaders and learners,” he said.
“For Indigenous students, seeing someone who shares their cultural background can foster a stronger sense of belonging, identity and pride.
“It also helps to create a more inclusive and representative education system where all students benefit from a variety of perspectives and lived experiences.”
His biggest inspiration to becoming an educator was to give all young students opportunities that he felt he missed out on while completing his schooling.
“I know how important it is to make sure that all voices are heard and respected in my classroom.”
A talented rugby league player, Michael moved to Brisbane to play for Wynnum Manly Seagulls and study at a Brisbane university after completing high school in Hervey Bay, before deciding to return to study Primary Education at UniSC’s Fraser Coast campus.
“UniSC Fraser Coast was an obvious choice, being close to home and having so many friends to support me,” he said.
“The highlights were connecting with mob and being close to people who had the same interests – it made my studies fly by.”
As he expected, the transition from university student to fronting a classroom of Year 6 students has been challenging – and incredibly rewarding.
“It brings the theory and planning you learn at university to life – you’re managing different personalities, learning needs, and unexpected moments every day.
“The pace is fast, the responsibility is real, and the impact you make is immediate.”
His highlights so far include building relationships with students and seeing their growth academically and personally.
“There’s nothing quite like watching a student finally grasp a concept they’ve been struggling with or hearing them say they’re excited to learn,” Michael said.
“I’ve enjoyed finding my teaching style and realising how much creativity and flexibility the role allows.”
And one of his biggest learnings?
“That teaching isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to learn alongside your students. I’ve learned the importance of being reflective – constantly asking what worked, what didn’t, and how I can improve.”
UniSC Pro Vice-Chancellor Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategy Professor Joe Fraser said the University was committed to helping First Nations people achieve their ambitions through education and become role models for others in their communities.
“Our Indigenous Education Plan seeks to improve student access, participation, retention, success and employment outcomes, ensuring students like Michael are supported from throughout their university experience, and beyond,” he said.
“It is wonderful how Michael views teaching as more than a career, but as a calling to help empower the next generation of First Nations students.”
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