ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL FOR THOMPSON

Apollo Bay P-12 College’s Christie Thompson is among teachers chosen from across Australia for the 2019 Bell Shakespeare Regional Teacher Mentorship (RTM).

The RTM gives teachers from regional, rural and remote Australian schools a fully-funded, year-long mentorship with the Bell Shakespeare Company.

Selected from as far afield as Nhulunbuy (NT), Bunbury (WA) and Herberton (QLD), the teachers will travel to Bell Shakespeare’s Sydney headquarters for specialist training in teaching Shakespeare, collaborate and network with teachers from other regions, and see the company’s production of The Miser at Sydney Opera House, starring John Bell.

On their return to school, teachers receive ongoing support from Bell Shakespeare artists and staff, as well as access to in-school and in-theatre programs to support their continued learning.

Apollo Bay P-12 College principal Tiffany Holt said the school was ecstatic with Ms Thompson’s achievements, having sourced and pursued the scholarship herself.

“This is the first time one of our teacher’s has been accepted into this program. She’s one of only 30 others from across Australia chosen,” Ms Holt said.

“Part of the reason for the program is to try and increase the involvement of Shakespeare within our curriculum. Christie has a personal interest in Shakespeare and that was also the motivation to bring that into the classroom.

“They contacted Christie directly and we all celebrated. This is a result of her drive and initiative and that’s fantastic. I love it when teachers find something, they’re passionate about, and go for it.”