MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Toni Smith
Toni Smith is a passionate educator at St Stephen’s Catholic College, Mareeba, bringing innovation and enthusiasm to the classroom. With extensive teaching experience and two years as a DATTA Qld committee member, Toni serves as Committee Member for Teaching & Learning and Professional Development. Her commitment to fostering creativity and critical thinking in students is evident in her educational approach.
Toni’s enthusiasm for design, technology, and engineering has led to notable achievements and a deep understanding of effective teaching practices. Her involvement with DATTA Qld reflects her dedication to professional development and collaboration within the field.
How long have you been a Design and Technology teacher and what schools have you worked in?
24 Years, I have worked at Kepnock SHS, Mareeba SHS and St Stephen’s Catholic College – Mareeba.
What inspired you to become a Design and Technology teacher?
I really enjoyed Technology Studies as a student and my teacher suggested that I should pursue it as a career.
what is your most memorable or proudest moment from your teaching career?
I have so many, I can’t just pick one. I love seeing past students achieving success – quite often when I need a tradie to come to my house, it is a past student with apprentices who are also past students!
What resources or advice do you recommend or have to help Design and Technology teachers deliver high-quality, engaging, and effective education to their students?
Relationships – these cannot oversold they are everything when it comes to teaching. I am a major supporter of the ESCMs and the new 4D Behaviour systems – if you have not heard of them, do yourself a favour and look them up – it will completely change your approach to teaching and massively increase your enjoyment of teaching.
Become a DATTA member – network, reach out – we are all in teaching together! I can almost guarantee that any challenge you may face in your career has been faced by another teacher.
Keep going to PD – keep your skills current and fresh. It is easy to settle into patterns, which can quickly turn into ruts…
What do you enjoy about being involved as a committee member with DATTA Qld?
Networking!! I have met some amazing people though this committee.
PD and resource sharing – I am always inspired by the creativity of new projects and new technologies.
What advice would you give to someone considering joining the DATTA Qld committee? Why should they volunteer their time?
This committee is run by dedicated volunteers – people who go above and beyond to ensure that our subject area continues to thrive with the changing times. They are experienced, passionate and very willing to help.
Join in, get to know our members and help shape the future of our subject area.
What hobbies, creative outlets, or pastimes do you enjoy in your free time?
I love the outdoors, nature, working with my hands (both woodworking and crochet 😊)
Thank you, Toni, for participating in the DATTA Queensland Member Spotlight and sharing your inspiring journey and valuable advice with fellow Design and Technology teachers. We encourage other DATTA Queensland members to participate in this series. If you would like to be featured or know a Queensland Design and Technology teacher who deserves recognition, please email us at membership@dattaqld.com.au.